What if I told you this lively square was once a bustling marketplace? This is Plaza de Olavide. Today it is a beloved spot in Madrid’s Chamberí neighborhood. But its story goes back much further than you might think.
Originally known as “Plaza Industrial”, Plaza de Olavide owes its existence to a simple thing. It started with a neighborhood fountain in the late 18th century. People gathered around it. A small community grew organically around this water source.
Around 1860, neighbors proposed a new name. “Plaza Industrial” became Plaza de Olavide. This marked a shift in the area’s identity.
To improve conditions for the street vendors a small market was built. It even used salvaged ironwork from the old Mercado de la Cebada. But this wasn’t the end of the story for the Plaza de Olavide.
In 1934, during the Second Republic, a decision was made. The old market would be replaced with a new, modern one. The new Mercado de Olavide had a unique design. It was a polygonal building with octagonal prisms. These prisms stepped up to a large central courtyard. Imagine the hustle and bustle within those walls.
However, the market’s life was cut short. In 1974, in a surprising move, the Mercado de Olavide was demolished. It was brought down by a controlled explosion. This demolition was not without controversy. Neighbors were given very little notice. They watched in disbelief as the market came down. The event was even captured by the NODO, the Francoist newsreel.
The demolition caused some minor damage to nearby buildings. The square then underwent a transformation. In 1977, the refurbished Plaza de Olavide was inaugurated. It included new trees and an underground parking lot.
The Plaza de Olavide has seen even more changes since then. It has been a straight promenade with gardens. It has also been a treeless space with access to parking. Finally, in 1999, Plaza de Olavide got the layout we see today. It features a central ornamental fountain and garden strips. A small park surrounds the area.
Today Plaza de Olavide is one of Madrid’s most special squares. It is welcoming and full of life. You can see terraces and benches filled with people day and night. So next time you are here take a moment to appreciate its rich history. From a simple fountain to a bustling market to the vibrant square it is today. Plaza de Olavide has always been a gathering place.