New York and Vatican City share a special feature: they are home to two of the most impressive Christmas trees in the world. The pine tree at Rockefeller Center has become a symbol of the Big Apple for its impressive size and elaborate decoration. The one in Piazza San Pietro, because of its religious significance, attracts thousands of believers every winter.
As for Madrid, the tree in Puerta del Sol (although it has its charm) always lags behind these and many other trees in major Western capitals. However, this year it may manage to climb positions: the City Council has announced that it will be different from previous Christmases. Especially in terms of size. Yes, it will be 37 meters high: one meter less than the famous Christ the Redeemer in Rio (Brazil). In addition, the pine tree will have 245,000 energy-efficient LED lights and some 3,360 red balls. Of course, there will be a star of Bethlehem to crown the top.
Although its installation has already begun, the new tree will not be illuminated until the night of Thursday, November 28, when all the streets of the city will turn on their Christmas lights. José Luis Martínez-Almeida, mayor of Madrid, and Luis de la Fuente, soccer coach of the Spanish National Team, will present the ceremony in Sol.