Plaza Mayor, Madrid, Guide du visiteur et quoi faire à proximité

Stand in the heart of Madrid at Plaza Mayor, a grand rectangular plaza that has been the city's social pulse since its completion in 1619. Designed by the brilliant Juan Gomez de Mora under King Philip III, this perfectly proportioned square measures 129 by 94 meters and is surrounded by impressive arcaded buildings creating an intimate yet spacious atmosphere. The plaza survived two devastating fires in 1631 and 1670, each time rising again stronger and more beautiful. The iconic Casa de la Panaderia (Bakery House) greets visitors with its stunning 1992 frescoes, vibrant and welcoming. Giambologna's magnificent equestrian statue of Philip III, cast in 1616, commands the plaza's center. With nine different entrances, Plaza Mayor invites exploration and discovery from every direction. Questo's adventures through Madrid always include this essential landmark where centuries of celebrations, markets, and human stories have unfolded beneath the Spanish sky.