Plaza Mayor

Plaza Mayor in Madrid is a historical and cultural hub of the city that is a must-visit for any traveler. This beautiful plaza is surrounded by impressive buildings and has been the center of social and cultural activities for over four centuries. The Plaza Mayor is not only a place to shop, dine, and enjoy a coffee or a glass of wine, but also a living museum that tells the story of Madrid’s past.

History of Plaza Mayor

Plaza Mayor has a fascinating history that dates back to the 16th century. Originally, the area where the plaza stands was a market that sold different goods, including food, meat, and fish. In the 17th century, King Philip III decided to transform the market into a grand plaza that would reflect the glory and power of the Spanish Empire. The plaza was designed by Juan Gomez de Mora, a famous Spanish architect, and construction began in 1617. The work was finished in 1619, and the plaza was inaugurated with great fanfare.

Throughout its history, the Plaza Mayor has been the site of many important events, including bullfights, public executions, and coronations. During the Spanish Inquisition, the plaza was also the site of the burning of heretics. In the 19th century, the plaza was the center of political protests and demonstrations.

The Architecture of Plaza Mayor

Plaza Mayor is a rectangular square that measures 129 meters by 94 meters. The plaza is surrounded by three-story residential buildings that are painted in a bright shade of yellow. The facades of these buildings have balconies that overlook the plaza, and each balcony has a unique design. The buildings are topped with slate roofs and ornate spires.

In the center of the plaza, there is a bronze statue of King Philip III, who commissioned the plaza. The statue is surrounded by four small fountains that add to the beauty of the square.

The plaza is enclosed by nine arches, each of which is adorned with frescoes depicting different scenes from Spanish history. The frescoes were painted by various artists, including Francisco Bayeu, who was the brother-in-law of Francisco de Goya.

Things to Do in Plaza Mayor

There are many things to do in Plaza Mayor, and visitors can easily spend a few hours exploring this beautiful square. The plaza is home to numerous shops, cafes, and restaurants that offer a wide range of goods and services.

One of the most popular activities in the plaza is people watching. The plaza is always bustling with activity, and it is a great place to watch the locals go about their daily lives. Visitors can sit at one of the outdoor cafes and enjoy a coffee or a glass of wine while they watch the world go by.

The plaza is also home to many street performers and musicians, who entertain the crowds with their talents. Visitors can enjoy the music and dance performances while taking in the beautiful architecture of the plaza.

Another popular activity in Plaza Mayor is shopping. There are many shops that sell souvenirs, gifts, and clothing. Visitors can browse the stores for unique items that are not available anywhere else.

Finally, the plaza is also home to some of Madrid’s best restaurants. Visitors can enjoy a meal of traditional Spanish cuisine at one of the many restaurants that line the square.

Conclusion

Plaza Mayor is a beautiful and historic square that is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Madrid. The plaza is a testament to the power and glory of the Spanish Empire and has played an important role in the city’s history. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful architecture, the street performers, and the many shops and restaurants that the plaza has to offer. Whether you are looking for a place to relax and people watch, or a place to shop and dine, Plaza Mayor has something for everyone.