The metropolis is rich in chic squares, where the main attractions are located.
Plaza Mayor Square
Plaza Mayor is considered central in Madrid, so it is also called the Main Square. Once there was a market here. In the XVI century. by decree of King Philip II, a place was equipped here for various events and concerts, theatrical performances, bullfights and even public executions began to be held. Plaza Mayor still constantly entertains citizens and guests of the capital.
Due to the abundance of events in neighboring houses, many apartments are often sold because noise interferes with normal life. The square is rich in old cafeterias, shops. Very close is El Botin, the world’s oldest restaurant. The Plaza Mayor center is decorated with a monument to Philip III. It is also worth admiring the white and pink Bread House.
Puerta del Sol Square
It is the very center not only of Madrid, but of the whole of Spain. Once there was an Eastern Gate. Now it is a beautiful square, from where the Spanish roads originate. The “Sun Gate” is a giant crossroads, so life is always bustling here.
The Puerta del Sol attracts attention with its luxurious buildings, the former royal post office with a clock tower whose chimes strike on New Year’s Eve. Therefore, on December 31, the attraction is literally filled with Spaniards. On the Puerta del Sol, you can still see the monument to Carlos III, at which Madrid began to flourish, as well as a sculpture of a bear cub, an urban symbol.
Sibeles Square
Sibeles is the pearl of the capital. The square is named after the goddess of fertility and is decorated in the center with a beautiful fountain. Sibeles embodies the greatness of Madrid in imperial times. In addition to the main composition in the center, you should visit the Communication Palace, the Palazzo Casa de America and Buenavista, the Bank of Spain.
Santa Ana Square
Santa Ana Square is located in the “Literary Quarter”. Here tourists can admire the exquisite architecture, statues of famous local writers. The Spanish Theater is perfect for cultural recreation.
East Square
This square, which was founded in the XIV century by King Joseph Bonaparte, is so named because it borders on the eastern side of the Royal Palace. In the center there is a monument to Philip IV, who made a significant contribution to the creation of the rich collection of the Prado Museum.
The palace regularly hosts excursions, in which tourists admire the luxurious halls. The Royal Theatre is located very close by. Residents of the capital like to have picnics in the local park.
Straw Square
Once there was a city center here. The square, founded back in the XIII century, owes its name to straw, which the peasants used to pay tribute to. Now citizens and tourists enjoy a calm atmosphere over a cup of coffee. The main attraction of the Straw Square is the medieval palace of the Vargas family.
Plaza de la Villa
Cozy and beautiful square was founded in the XVII century. From here you can get to the old Elbow Street. Plaza de la Villa is decorated with a medieval tower and the house of Lujanes, where the Royal Academy of Sciences is now located. Until 2007, the local council met here. After the municipality moved to the Sibeles Palace, the mayor works in this building.
Columbus Square
The square is named after Christopher Columbus, who discovered America. A monument was erected to the navigator here. Madrid residents and travelers visit Plaza de Colon to visit the Wax Museum and see the luxurious Jardines del Descubrimiento gardens.