The Plaza Mayor is the grand stage of old Madrid. The arcaded square was completed in 1619, under King Philip III, by the architect Juan Gómez de Mora. Over the centuries it hosted markets, bullfights, royal celebrations and even trials of the Inquisition – crowds watched from its hundreds of balconies.
What to see
The square
Three-storey buildings in red brick, with slate spires and arcades, close the square on all sides. In the centre stands the equestrian statue of Philip III.
The Casa de la Panadería
The most beautiful façade, on the north side, is covered in colourful painted murals of mythological figures. It houses the city’s tourist office.
The arches
Nine gateways lead into the square. The steep Arco de Cuchilleros, in the south-west corner, takes you down to old taverns built into the walls.
Around the square
- The Mercado de San Miguel, an iron-and-glass market from the early 20th century, is a minute away.
- The lanes of Habsburg Madrid lead to the Plaza de la Villa and on to the Royal Palace.
- In December, the square fills with stalls for the Christmas market.
Tips
- Come early in the morning to see the square almost empty, or at night when it is lit up.
- Try a calamari sandwich in one of the bars nearby – a Madrid classic.
