Exploring the Enchanting Plazas of Madrid, Spain: A Journey Through History and Culture
While Barcelona, Spain gets a lot of buzz, it is the capital of Spain, Madrid, that really sets the stage for a magical European destination. After all, there is a reason – many in fact – why Madrid tourism is experiencing quite an uptick these days, with Madrid travel seeming to be on every globetrotter's wish list this year! From near limitless Madrid must-see attractions to expansive parks and green spaces, as well as the rich Madrid culture and history, and of course, yummy Madrid cuisine, the capital city of Spain sets a high bar. Among these many alluring traits and features, Madrid offers tourists, boosting Madrid tourism, is the capital city of Spain's numerous – and spectacular – squares. But in Madrid, Spain, of course, we call them plazas!
It makes perfect sense that Madrid plazas would be so popular and appeal to both tourists and locals alike, as public squares are the ideal gathering spots for all people to come and create instant community – taking strolls, people watching, meeting for tapas and an after-work drink, and more. You could say that Madrid squares are the social hubs of the capital city, and who doesn't want to get swept up in all of that excitement while traveling in such a dream European destination? To make sure you don't miss out on the most popular and poppin' Madrid plazas, we have created a guide highlighting the Madrid squares you simply must see and experience during your Madrid trip! So, keep reading to discover these best Madrid plazas that you simply can't miss adding to your itinerary during your Madrid travel!
Puerta del Sol in Madrid, Spain
Soak up the Spanish sun and socialize to your heart's content at Puerta del Sol in Madrid, Spain. One of the most popular and beloved Madrid plazas, this busy public square has so much to offer. Even its name is sure to make you smile: The literal translation of Puerta del Sol is “Gate of the Sun”.Without a doubt, visitors to Madrid, Spain making their way to Puerta del Sol during their Madrid trip will soon discover that shopping is really what attracts people most to this Spanish public square. And while the Madrid plaza does indeed offer plenty of shopping options and exciting sales, it must be mentioned that Puerta del Sol also has quite a rich historic value as well! In fact, the history behind this Madrid plaza is quite a scintillating story. It is in this very Madrid plaza that during the month of May way back in 1808, the Spanish locals met to protest against the French occupation, igniting an uprising for the ages. To this day, that rebel spirit remains in Puerta del Sol, as the Madrid square is an often-used spot for staged protests of all sorts.
While Puerta del Sol admittedly may not be the most beautiful of all Madrid plazas, there is definitely a charm to this capital city public square, especially at night, when Puerta del Sol is all lit up with neon signs and quite lively with evening activity! Speaking of neon signs, there is one particular neon sign in Puerta del Sol that has a special place in the hearts of the Spanish people: the iconic Tio Pepe sign. A fun, silly sign, it is actually a promotional ad for a beloved brand of Spanish sherry perched atop a huge building front and center in Puerta del Sol. It features a dancing bottle of sherry strumming a guitar and seeming to have the time of its life, making the advertorial sign an ideal photo op. So be sure to take a snap of this signature Madrid sign as you pass through the square, and don't worry, you can't miss it, as it is quite large!
Plaza Mayor in Madrid, Spain
The layout of Plaza Mayor in Madrid, Spain – an abundantly large square surrounded on all sides by a looming building offering perfect perches for people to look downward on any and all activity below -- makes perfect sense once you are aware of the public square's somewhat sordid past. It is here where the capital city's executions, bullfights, and public trials took place throughout Madrid's history. To be sure, there were also many weddings and joyous occasions held here as well.
The ancient Madrid plaza, which was completed in 1619 A.D., was the brainchild of King Philip II, which explains why there is a statue of the Spanish ruler – astride his trusty steed – in the very middle of the massive public square. And while the dark and violent history of the public square “special occasions” have thankfully been left in the past, the popular Madrid plaza still hosts myriad events drawing quite the crowds to this day, such as public concerts, and more.
While any time of year is an excellent season to visit this famed Madrid plaza, visitors to Plaza Mayor will especially adore the scene that unfolds here during summertime, where the vast public square explodes with life and the cafes and restaurants that line the perimeter boast tables that fill the center of the square, sending waiters scuddling to and fro from their dining establishments to replenish diners' plates and glasses as they enjoy the sunshine and starlight center square.
Plaza de Oriente in Madrid, Spain
A perfect Madrid plaza to stop by after enjoying discovering the iconic Royal Palace is nearby Plaza de Oriente. In fact, the name itself – Plaza “Oriente”, which means “East” in Spanish, tells you exactly which direction to head upon completing your Royal Palace discovery adventure: due East, of course! Holding court at the very middle of the public square is a statue of King Philip IV dating all the way back to the 1840s, while various other statues of Spanish royalty throughout history are scattered throughout the plaza garden.
This Madrid square is not only lovely to look at, but it is also an exceptionally enjoyable place to take a stroll, especially if you are a music appreciator, as buskers are known to set up shop here, treating tourists and locals alike to all manner of musical entertainment. As for buildings of note found within the Madrid plaza, the famed Royal Theatre of Madrid, Spain (you may see it on a map listed as Teatro de la Opera) is a big draw.
Plaza de Colon in Madrid, Spain
Honoring the intrepid explorer Christopher Columbus, Plaza de Colon is a lively public square in Madrid, Spain. Perhaps the most popular attraction to see here are the gorgeous gardens onsite, known as the Gardens of Discovery, also honoring Columbus and his navigation contributions. Further nods to Columbus are seen at Plaza de Colon in a statue of the explorer, as well as a lovely fountain and another monument that pays homage to his nautical adventures.
Plaza de Independencia in Madrid, Spain
This Madrid plaza is a buzzing hub that many Madrid tourists and visitors will naturally pass through via roundabout traffic circle on their way into the capital city from landing at Madrid airport during their Madrid trip. Looming large over the plaza and commanding the attention of all visitors is a massive monument known as the Puerta de Alcala, which used to be a central entry point and main gate into the city of Madrid, Spain in olden times.
Plaza de Villa in Madrid, Spain
Pretty as a postcard, Plaza de Villa is one of Madrid, Spain's less assuming and showy, but still quite lovely public squares. As the name indicates, it is home to the capital city's beloved Casa de la Villa, which was once the Madrid Town Hall. Also found in this picturesque public square – right in its very center -- is the statue honoring Don Alvaro de Bazán, the Marquis de Santa Cruz.
Plaza de España in Madrid, Spain
Nestled amid a metropolitan concrete jungle of towering modern buildings in Spain's capital city is Plaza de Espana, a welcome relief from the urban scene featuring a vast green space and plenty of room to stretch your legs beneath the sunshine. You could call it an urban oasis of sorts, right in the middle of the bustling city! On any given day in Madrid, you will find visitors and locals alike taking advantage of the lovely park grounds in this popular Madrid plaza – picnicking, walking, relaxing and reading on a park bench, and even daydreaming on the lawn beneath the shade of sun-dappled tree leaves.
During your visit to Plaza de Espana during your Madrid trip, be sure to check out the monuments found here, as well as enjoy the lovely fountains featured throughout the parking space. The options and Plaza de Espana really do abound!
Madrid and Its Magical Plazas Await!
Are you ready to head to Madrid, Spain, and see these magical capital city public squares for yourself? Our expert team is here to help! We will do all the heavy lifting to plan a Madrid trip ideally catered to your specific wants and needs. Reach out today and let us tell you all about our amazing Madrid specials and Spain travel deals, so we can work together to make your Madrid trip nothing short of perfection!
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