Coso Viejo Square

You’re now standing in the heart of Antequera’s old town, on Coso Viejo Square — literally “old arena,” a name that recalls the square’s historic use for public festivities and perhaps even bullfights. It was created back in the 16th century to expand the space around San Sebastián Square. At first, it served as a gathering spot and local market, and was even known as “Plaza de las Verduras,” or “Vegetable Square.” Following a recent renovation, the square now features a striking bronze equestrian statue at its center, depicting Don Fernando of Castile. Known in English as Ferdinand I of Aragon, he’s honoured here for leading the campaign against the Arab kingdom of Granada and captured the key city of Antequera on September 16th, 1410. Behind the statue, you’ll spot a fountain with four sculpted faces, called the Fountain of the Four Elements, inaugurated in 2002. The addition of several significant buildings gave this square a more monumental feeling. To the left of the statue is the Convent of Santa Catalina de Siena. The exterior may be unassuming, but step into the church and you’ll be surprised by the rich baroque interior, filled with delicate plasterwork shaped into vines, flowers and cherubs. Across the square stands the elegant Nájera Palace, built in the 18th century as a residence for the nobleman Alfonso de Eslava y Trujillo. Over the years, it’s served many roles—a provincial courthouse, a college, the Civil Guard headquarters, and even a school of arts and crafts. Today, it houses the Municipal Museum, one of the most impressive in Andalusia. Inside, you’ll find archaeological, historical and artistic treasures that trace the story of Antequera through the ages. There are also workshops and a 360-degree immersive room where you can experience the famous “Correr la Vega”—a cornerstone tradition of Antequera’s Holy Week—as if you were in the heart of the celebration. For those unfamiliar with this event, each year thousands of locals fill the streets to cheer on the brotherhoods who carry a throne bearing the statue of the Virgin Mary on their shoulders, making sure she returns to her home church. It’s a moving, high-energy event—and officially recognised as a festival of unique tourist interest.