Plaza Mayor

The Plaza Mayor, in Madrid

The Plaza Mayor is the great emblematic arcaded square of Madrid, in the heart of old Madrid. The Madrid audio-guided tour stops here to evoke this vast historic ensemble, the scene of Madrid life for centuries.

The great arcaded square

The Plaza Mayor is one of the finest squares of Spain, laid out in the seventeenth century in the Madrid of the Habsburgs. This vast rectangular square, entirely closed and lined with arcaded buildings with uniform façades, is dominated by the Casa de la Panadería, adorned with colourful frescoes. In its centre stands an equestrian statue of King Philip III. Over the centuries, it hosted markets, festivals, proclamations and shows. Rebuilt after several fires, it remains the historic heart of Madrid.

What to see

You admire the vast arcaded square, the Casa de la Panadería adorned with frescoes and the equestrian statue of Philip III, in an always lively atmosphere. The Plaza Mayor is the historic heart of Madrid. It is a must-see stop, to be explored on foot.

Practical information

The Plaza Mayor lies in the heart of old Madrid, reachable on foot and by public transport. It is a public space open at all times, freely accessible and on the level; the cafés and shops under the arcades have their own hours. The square is lively all day.

When was the Plaza Mayor of Madrid laid out?

In the seventeenth century, in the Madrid of the Habsburgs; it is a vast arcaded square dominated by the Casa de la Panadería and the statue of Philip III.

Where is the Plaza Mayor of Madrid?

In the heart of old Madrid, in Spain.