Madrid’s Plaza Mayor is undoubtedly one of the most iconic landmarks in Spain. This grand square, surrounded by stunning architecture, has been the center of the city since the 16th century. Today, it remains a hub for locals and tourists alike, who flock to enjoy its vibrant atmosphere and rich history.
If you’re planning a visit to Plaza Mayor Madrid, you’ll no doubt be curious about what buildings surround this impressive square. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most notable buildings that you can find around Plaza Mayor.
The Casa de la Panadería
One of the most recognizable buildings around Plaza Mayor is the Casa de la Panadería. This striking structure has stood at the north side of the square since 1619 and was originally used as a bakery. Today, it houses municipal offices and serves as a cultural center for Madrid.
The building features stunning frescoes on its façade that were added in 1992 during a major restoration project. These murals depict scenes from Madrid’s history and are definitely worth a closer look.
The Real Casa de la Carnicería
Another notable building located on the north side of Plaza Mayor is the Real Casa de la Carnicería. This building dates back to the 17th century and was originally used as a meat market. Today, it houses offices for Madrid’s municipal government.
The building’s façade features intricate carvings of animals and other decorative elements. It’s also worth noting that this building is one of only two surviving examples of Madrid’s old slaughterhouses.
The Torre de los Lujanes
Located on the southeast corner of Plaza Mayor is the Torre de los Lujanes. This medieval tower dates back to the 15th century and is one of Madrid’s oldest buildings.
The tower takes its name from the Luján family, who owned it for several generations. Today, it houses the Royal Academy of Moral and Political Sciences, and is a popular spot for tourists looking to snap a photo of a truly historic building.
The Casa de la Villa
On the western side of Plaza Mayor sits the Casa de la Villa. This stunning building dates back to the 17th century and was originally used as Madrid’s city hall.
Today, it houses some of Madrid’s municipal offices and is open to visitors who want to explore its impressive interior. The building’s façade features beautiful carvings and sculptures that are sure to leave an impression.
The Arch of Cuchilleros
Finally, no discussion of Plaza Mayor’s surrounding buildings would be complete without mentioning the Arch of Cuchilleros. This ornate archway stands on the eastern side of the square and leads down a narrow street lined with restaurants and bars.
The arch was built in the early 17th century and features intricate carvings depicting scenes from Madrid’s history. It’s a popular spot for photos, especially during sunset when its warm hues are truly stunning.
Conclusion
As you can see, Plaza Mayor Madrid is surrounded by an array of impressive buildings that showcase Madrid’s rich history and culture. From medieval towers to grand municipal buildings, there’s something for everyone to explore around this iconic square. So next time you find yourself in Madrid, be sure to take some time to appreciate these stunning structures that help make Plaza Mayor such a special place.