Plaza Mayor, translated to "main square", is one of the biggest squares in Madrid. The square is located in the heart of the Old City of Madrid, and it is only a few blocks away from Puerto del Sol.
Illustration 1 Plaza Mayor by Kris Arnold | flickr
Built during the Habsburg period, it was previously called Plaza del Arrabal, it is nowadays known under the name Plaza Mayor.
Even though Philip II's commissioned the design and planning of Plaza Mayor, it was not until 1617, when the constructions finally began during Philip III's reign.
The impressive building, Casa de la Panadería, has undergone several changes over the decades, since many fire incidents occured. The biggest accident happening in 1790, afterwards Juan de Villanueva restructured the building, by downsizing it to only three storeys.
The square has seen and experienced a lot over the years, Back in the days, it was the typical site to celebrate festivals, showcase bullfights, as a celebration of royal weddings and births, or simply executions, burning at stakes, hangings and so on.
Another beautiful feature are the frescoes on Casa de la Panadería's façade, Carlo Franco's mural depicts the different zodiac signs, and gods, such as goddess Cybele.
Illustration 2 Plaza Mayor mural by Roberto Maldeno | flickr
Nowadays, tourists can find the Madrid Tourist Board and Madrid Tourism Centre at Palza Mayor, as well as numerous restaurants, shops, and cafés.
A must-do at Plaza Mayor is definitely ordering a Bocadillo de Calamares, a bread roll filled with fried squid rings. It is a typical Madrid dish, which can range from 2,70€ up to 6€. Do it like the locals, find a bar at or nearby the square, and enjoy this sandwich either standing at the bar or outside on one of the benches at Plaza Mayor.
Are you planning to visit Plaza Mayor and are still looking for an accommodation in Madrid? Habitat Apartments has an array of apartments in Madrid.
Latina Superior is one of our best and most favoured apartments in Madrid. Recently renovated, the apartment fits up to 6 people, and therefore is perfect for families and/or group of friends.
