On October 1, 2026, Madrid inaugurated its first Chinese arch, a significant cultural landmark located in the Plaza del Hidrógeno in the Usera district. The arch, titled Two Cultures in Love, features a bear, a symbol of Madrid, alongside two dragons, emblematic of Chinese culture. The project was promoted by the municipal council and designed in collaboration with the local Chinese community.

The arch stands 11 meters tall and 12 meters wide, with an interior passage of 8 meters. Madrid's Mayor, José Luis Martínez-Almeida, emphasized that the new structure symbolizes the “understanding between the Chinese community and the city.” He praised the community's long-standing integration in the capital and expressed gratitude to Okuda San Miguel for his commitment to Usera, stating that the artwork will become a lasting icon for Madrid.

The artist, Okuda San Miguel, explained that the project was developed through dialogue and collaboration with the Chinese community, ensuring it accurately reflects the values of coexistence in the district. Sonia Cea, the local councilor, described the arch as “a demonstration of the embrace between cultures” and highlighted it as a significant achievement in the district's revitalization efforts.

A Symbol of Cultural Coexistence

The arch reinterprets the traditional Chinese paifang, which signifies a place and honors its history, transforming it into a community meeting point. The three figures—representing Madrid and the Chinese culture—coexist harmoniously under the same archway. Each side of the arch features messages in Chinese calligraphy promoting coexistence, respect, and harmony, such as “The world belongs to everyone” and “Harmony is the most valuable.”

The Chinese community in Usera, which comprises approximately 10% of the district's population, contributed to the design, influencing both the form and color palette of the arch. The structure aims to become an artistic icon of Madrid and a symbol of cultural coexistence, enhancing Usera's identity and boosting its cultural, commercial, and gastronomic appeal.

The project, funded by the Usera Municipal Council with an investment of €490,000, completes the pedestrian route linking Madrid Río to the district's center, which was finished earlier this year. This initiative, which includes references to Chinese culture such as engraved carp in the pavement and a dragon-shaped playground, is part of a broader investment exceeding €10 million, financed through European Next Generation funds.

Celebrating the Mid-Autumn Festival

The inauguration of the arch coincides with the Mid-Autumn Festival, taking place in Usera from October 2 to 4. The Plaza del Hidrógeno will host traditional Chinese dance parades and qipao fashion shows on the first two days, along with musical performances and dragon dances. On Sunday, activities will move to the Plaza de José Luis Hoys, near the Usera metro station.

Throughout the festival, the pedestrian route will feature tea stalls, tai chi sessions, a food market, and craft workshops. Additionally, the Pradolongo Park will host a DJ session and a shadow puppetry and illusion show titled “Music and Magic Under the Moon.”

Factory of Dreams, Okuda San Miguel's contemporary art space in Usera, will also participate in the festivities, offering children's workshops and guided tours of the studio on October 2 and 3. For more details on the festival program, visit diario.madrid.es.