Plaza Mayor is a grand arcaded square in the center of Madrid. It might not look like it, but it has a long history dating back to the middle ages when it was simply a market place. It became an official "square" in 1617.
Then, it was surrounded by wooden buildings. Three times, fires destroyed all the buildings around Plaza Mayor. Each time they were rebuilt with the last reconstruction into what you see today. The most prominent building is the Casa de la Panaderia, named after the powerful bakery it replaced. It's towers date from 1790 when they were rebuilt after the last fire.
The bronze statue in the center of the square is of King Philips III, constructed in 1616.
The square has been the hub of many activities including public executions, royal ceremonies, bullfights, Inquisition trials and many fiestas. Today, it is a quiet place within the busy city to enjoy one of the many restaurants and cafes under the arches surrounding the square, try some Spanish wine, some tapas and interesting sites!
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