A walk down Madrid's most beloved square: Plaza Mayor

Plaza Mayor History

Commissioned by King Philip II to be designed by the classical architect Juan de Herrera, the square was eventually inaugurated by Philip III in 1620 (it's his statue that today occupies a central position in the square). Incidentally, the present rectangular shape was thanks to the work of architect Juan Gómez de Mora. A spate of fires in 1790 ravaged the plaza, and it was architect Juan de Villanueva who took on the herculean task of restoration and rebuilding. The square is surrounded by magnificent three-story residential buildings notable for their inward-facing balconies. The frescoed facade of the bakery Casa de la Panadería is hard to miss, while the square's Madrid Tourist Board office is useful for maps and brochures. Be sure to read up a bit on Madrid's turbulent history to fully comprehend the significance of this square.

Plaza Mayor Today

This square is a favorite with sunbathers and people-watchers during the summer months. Busloads of tourists arrive at regular intervals, while costumed characters make the most of this carnivalesque atmosphere. The plaza's corridors are a great spot to escape the heat and browse for exotic merchandise in little shops. By midnight, the atmosphere is charged, and the square fills up with both young revelers and families.
Winters at Plaza Mayor are resplendent, with twinkling fairy lights on Christmas trees, and shops, musicians, sideshows, Santa Claus characters and nativity scenes all over. Foodies will appreciate the profusion of restaurants lining the square that serve tapas platters and excellent Spanish wines. Note that dinners are a more memorable affair later on, as impromptu singing and dancing bring the night to a close. In walking distance is the food market Mercado San Miguel, offering everything from sangria and mojitos, to croquettes, yoghurt, and seafood. A ten minute walk will get you to Madrid's pride and joy, the Prado Museum.
It's true that this city never sleeps. And Plaza Mayor is testament to this fact.

One of Madrid’s most typical eats

One of the most authentic experiences you can have in the Spanish capital is to try the famous calamari sandwich (bocadillo de calamares) at one of the no-frills bars in and around the Plaza Mayor. Make sure you take note of these popular options: La Campana (Botoneras, 6), Bar La Ideal (Botoneras 4), Casa María (Plaza Mayor, 23), Bar Postas (Calle de Postas, 13), and those located in the Plaza Mayor square: Cervecería Plaza Mayor (No. 2), Margerit (No. 22), and El Soportal (No. 33).

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