Real Madrid celebrates La Duodecima with thousands on streets, in Bernabeu

The party has begun.

Real Madrid's victorious players paraded the club's 12th European Cup through the streets of the Spanish capital on Sunday - two weeks after celebrating a 33rd domestic championship in late-night festivities.

The bus tour started at Puerta del Sol, where Madrid met the mayor and the president of the community of Madrid for an official presentation.

"We promised to return and we have returned as champions," captain Sergio Ramos said at city hall. "I hope to return many more times and that we can celebrate many more titles."

The bus then headed for the Cibeles fountain in the city centre, as thousands crowded the area to catch a glimpse of history. (Los Blancos became the first team in the modern era to defend the Champions League title.)

Upon their arrival, Ramos and Marcelo - as they did after winning La Liga - scaled a crane to wrap a flag around Cibeles, a crowning moment that set off confetti and massive cheers.

Related - Gallery: Euphoric scenes as Los Blancos celebrate end of a drought

The tour ended at the Santiago Bernabeu, where an estimated 81,000 fans indulged in a fireworks and light show. A special ovation was reserved for Zinedine Zidane, who, in just a year-and-a-half, has captured a pair of Champions League titles.

All of the players hoisted Zidane into the air and listened to his few, carefully selected words on the big stage.

(Photo courtesy: Action Images)

Supporters also chanted for Cristiano Ronaldo - scorer of two goals in Saturday's final - to win a fifth Ballon d'Or. He returned the favour with his trademark roar, "Siuuuuuuuh."