The balconies & the bells
If anything makes La Fonda de los Príncipes unique, it is its balconies.
Our balconies are the place where every year, on December 31st, different television channels broadcast the New Year's bells to bid farewell to the year. Yes, throughout our entire lives, on New Year's Eve, we have enjoyed watching the broadcast of the bells from this very place.
A place that brings wonderful memories of one of the most emotional moments of the year. For as long as we can remember, we have all experienced this moment as a family, gathered around the television, remembering those who have gone, and toasting to the future.
Being here is something magical.
You should also know that La Fonda de los Príncipes has witnessed every single New Year's bell celebration held at Puerta del Sol, as it is older than the bells themselves.
The New Year's bells tradition began with the installation of the clock at the Real Casa de Correos in 1866, five years after the original fonda opened. Since its installation, the Puerta del Sol clock has been the most emblematic symbol for welcoming the New Year in Spain.
The clock is the symbol, and La Fonda is the best place to enjoy it. Every year, different television channels come to La Fonda to broadcast this special moment with all of Spain.
Historical curiosities about the bells
Television broadcasting began in 1962 by Televisión Española. Until then, it was broadcast on radio.
Every year it has been broadcast from Puerta del Sol, except in 1973 and 1983, when it was broadcast from Barcelona and Tenerife respectively.
In Spain, it is celebrated by eating 12 grapes, one with each bell. The tradition has been documented since the late 19th century.
The bells ring every 3 seconds, to give enough time to eat the grapes.
In 1989/1990, presenter Marisa Naranjo confused the quarter chimes with the final bells, and many viewers started eating their grapes too early.
In 1992/1993, journalist José María Carrascal wished everyone a Happy 1963, instead of 1993.
In 1996/1997, due to a technical error, the bells rang twice as fast as normal.
The audience record was achieved by Televisión Española in 2000/2001, with 10.55 million viewers.
Ramón García is the presenter who has hosted the bells the most times — 20 times over four decades.