Plaza Mayor
Madrid, ESP
A popular meeting place for tourists and locals, Plaza Mayor dates back to the early 17th century, during King Felipe III's reign; its central equestrian statue is a nod to the king's role in overseeing the square's completion. Forming the outer walls are a series of three-story buildings with balconies overlooking the lively scene.
Plaza Mayor has played host to a variety of events throughout history, including bullfights, executions during the Spanish Inquisition, and soccer matches. The most prominent of the buildings in the plaza is the Casa de la Panadería, or House of the Baker's Guild, which today serves municipal and cultural functions. There are also shops and cafés on the ground level, providing refreshments for hungry and thirsty travelers admiring the square. The plaza is included on most Madrid city tours—including walking tours, biking tours, Segway tours, and food tours—alongside other popular attractions such as the Prado Museum, Royal Palace, Plaza de Oriente, and Plaza de España.
The Plaza Mayor is a major landmark in Madrid and a must-see for first-time visitors.
Visit the plaza as part of a small group or private city tour for a deeper understanding of its history.
When exploring the area, remember to wear comfortable walking shoes.
The easiest way to get to Plaza Mayor on your own is to take the metro (Line 2) to Sol station.
While Plaza Mayor can get crowded, especially during peak summer season, the festive atmosphere is part of its appeal. The plaza is an excellent place to stop for a coffee or a drink in the afternoon, or for an alfresco dinner in the evening.
Both Madrid and the restaurants surrounding Plaza Mayor are famous for calamari sandwiches: French bread stuffed with battered and golden-fried squid rings, often served with aioli and a wedge of lemon. Try it with una caña, a small, ice-cold draft beer.
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