The Plaza Mayor draws millions of tourists every year and is one of Madrid’s most famous attractions.
While not an architectural work of art, the Plaza is one of the best places in Madrid to experience first hand Madrid’s friendly atmosphere. It’s an amazing place to experience the culture first hand, both Spanish locals and tourists frequent the area.
Established centuries ago, the Plaza Mayor took its approximate current shape in 1790 after the most recent fire. It’s served as a public square in the most literal sense throughout that time and has hosted bullfights, political battles, festivals and even beheadings. To make your adventure into this piece of Madrid’s locale more exciting, a little history lesson before arriving would be well worth it.
A near-perfect square and about 100m on each side The Plaza Mayor isn’t considered too large by some standards, however it can hold 50,000 people at one time. Throughout the summer season, the Plaza is particularly packed. There are still some festivals that take place during the year, and that is a great time to drop by in order to have the real Spanish experience.
It’s the perfect place to get a meal or a drink or just take a rest, as there are dozens of cafes, bars and restaurants on offer there. A plethora of classic Spanish meals can be ordered, often at prices that are reasonable. There are also many souvenir shops were you can purchase something to remember your trip by.
Buildings that encircle the Plaza are convenient places for looking down upon events that are taking place down below. These are definitely worth taking the time to venture to if you have time as you’ll be away from the masses of people below and will have more time and space to take in and appreciate the sights and sounds on offer.
