Visitors to Madrid cannot leave without at least passing through the Spanish capital’s main central square, the Plaza Mayor. Filled with history, beauty, and energy, it’s internationally known reputation is well deserved.
The Spanish streets are so narrow in places that any entry to the wide-open expanse of the centuries-old Plaza Mayor is filled with grandeur. The atmosphere is particularly festive in winter with the arrival of the city’s Christmas market. The rest of the year colourful apartments with wrought-iron balconies form the plaza’s character. The city’s reign as a European Capital of Culture in 1992 brought an extra splash of beauty to the square with the installation of cosmic frescoes by Carlos Franco.
The easiest way to reach the Plaza Mayor, and indeed much of central Madrid, is by the Sol station. Many of Madrid’s other top attractions, such as the Palacio Real, the Teatro Real, and the Museo del Prado are within walking distance.
For a glimpse at the Plaza Mayor’s origins, visitors can turn their eyes to the slate spires rising above the square. First designed in the early 17th century by Juan Gomez de Mora, the Plaza Mayor became a brutal centre of controversy with bullfights and executions taking place at its heart. Today it is a picturesque landmark for visitors to enjoy.