Plaza Mayor, located next to Puerta del Sol in Madrid is one of the most popular tourist attractions of Madrid, and a popular marketing square for the natives and tourists.
Plaza Mayor is the central square of Madrid which is the most popular venue for tournaments, weddings, inquisition, bullfights and many important occasions. The Plaza Mayor is rectangular in shape and is basically a three-storied colossal building which has residential quarters in it. It is located to the south-west of another extremely popular square, Puerta del Sol. The building was built between 1617 and 1619 and was restored in the year 1790 after being devastated by a fire.
History of the Plaza Mayor
The history of the Plaza Mayor dates back to the Middle Ages when it was considered to be a local market place outside the boundaries of the city. In the year 1560, King Philip II ordered the famous architect, Juan de Herrera, to transform this local market place into a real market square. The actual construction of the building however, started during the rule of Philips III and was completed within two years under the supervision of Juan Gomez de la Mora, a renowned architect of those days. As a result, the Plaza Mayor came into being; measuring 90metres in width and 120metres in length. It was bordered by wooden architectural buildings which however got destroyed by fire in 1631, 1672 and in 1790. The present structure of the building was designed by Juan de Villanueva.
Bronze Statue of King Philips III
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Located in the centre of the Plaza Mayor in Madrid is the well-known bronze statue of King Philips III, which was built to honor the King Philips III, who was responsible behind the construction of this square. The statue was made by Italian sculptors Giovanni de Bologna and Pietro Tacca in the year 1616.
Casa de la Panaderia
Another most remarkable feature of the Plaza Mayor is the significant building of Casa de la Panaderia, which was the seat of the Royal bakery. This was constructed in the year 1590, even before the plaza came into existence and was renovated in the year 1790. This place currently serves as the home of the local municipal office and is situated on the north side of the square.
Plaza Mayor, Madrid
The Plaza Mayor, Madrid is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city and has a number of street cafes and restaurants. On Sundays, the square houses a special market where old coins and stamps are sold and bought. During Christmas, one can find numerous shops in the square selling exquisite Christmas gifts and items. During summers, many tables are spread all across the market where one can just sit and enjoy a sumptuous lunch or dinner with friends and family. There are many shops, cafes, bars and restaurants where tourist can find all that they are looking for.
The Plaza Mayor is undoubtedly one of the most popular tourist attraction sites of Madrid and also occupies a special place in the heart of the natives as well.
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