Plaza Mayor, Madrid
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Plaza Mayor, Madrid - by Moiz K. Malik on Unsplash
Description
The Plaza Mayor of Madrid is one of the city's major public spaces, it was created in the 15th century as the town's main market. It was redeveloped in the early 17th century and the architectural design was updated several times following fires, in particular in 1790 with architect Juan de Villanueva lowering the buildings heights to three stories and creating large entrances into the square. Features include the 237 balconies, the 9 entrance gates, and the bronze statue of King Philip III.
Access & Transport
The Sol metro and suburban train station (1, 2, 3, C3, C4) and Opera metro station (2, 5) are only 300m and 400m away respectively. There are also several bus services stopping nearby as well.
Instructions & Recommendations
If you wish to avoid the crowds then early morning is the best time as the square gets busy until late at night. Other activities / sights nearby include Puerta del Sol, the Latina neighbourhood and the Royal Palace of Madrid.
Environmental & Social
Environmentally, there is no data at the neighbourhood level, but it is mostly concrete with few green spaces. Part of the city's architectural heritage.
Conclusion
Madrid's Plaza Mayor is impressive and worth checking out although it doesn't quite have the same wow factor as some of the most famous city squares in Spain or other European cities. In any case, it is so centrally located and surrounded by several other sights / areas of interest that it is definitely worth including in one's itinerary.
Key positive
Clean and commercially dynamic area
Architecturally and historically interesting
Key negative
Quite a pricey area
Suitability
No restrictions
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
June 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 20m
est. visit time:1h
Sunrise / early morningOk
MorningOk
Lunch timeOk
AfternoonOk
Sunset / eveningOk
Night – bef. midnightOk
Night – aft. midnightNo