“Imagine being transported back in time” I say. We are standing at Place de Madrid. This isn’t just any square. It’s a place steeped in history and brimming with stories.
Place de Madrid’s story stretches back centuries. It was built during the reign of King Philip III. This square has been a central hub for Madrid.
Originally, this space was called Plaza del Arrabal. It served as the town’s main market. In 1561, the city of Madrid took control of the plaza. King Philip II then commissioned architect Juan de Herrera to remodel the area. Construction began in 1617 under Philip III. Juan Gómez de Mora completed the work in 1619.
Throughout its history, Place de Madrid faced many challenges. Three major fires ravaged the square. The first occurred in 1631. Juan Gómez de Mora oversaw the reconstructions. A second fire struck in 1670. Architect Tomás Román led the restoration efforts. The most devastating fire happened in 1790. Juan de Villanueva is credited with the architecture we see today.
Villanueva lowered the surrounding buildings from five stories to three. He created large entrances and closed off the corners. After Villanueva’s death, Antonio López Aguado and Custodio Moreno continued the work. They completed it in 1854.
The Plaza Mayor is rectangular. It measures 129 meters by 94 meters. The uniformity of its architecture is striking. Three-story residential buildings feature 237 balconies facing inward.
Ten entrances offer access to Place de Madrid. These entrances have names like 7 de Julio and Arco de Triunfo. Also Felipe III to the North, Sal, Zaragoza and Gerona to the East, Botoneras, Toledo and Cuchilleros to the South and Ciudad Rodrigo to the West.
At the center of Place de Madrid stands a statue of Philip III on horseback. It was placed there in 1848. The square has witnessed many events. Executions once took place here. Today, it hosts an annual Christmas market. Bullfights and soccer games were also held here. Every Sunday and on holidays, a stamp and coin collecting market takes place.
The Casa de la Panadería is a notable building. It has two angled towers. Originally, it was the city’s main bakery. In 1880, Joaquín María de la Vega restored it. Carlos Franco decorated its façade in 1992 with mythological figures.
The name Place de Madrid has evolved. It has been known as Plaza del Arrabal and Plaza de la Constitución. Also Plaza Real and Plaza de la República. These names reflect different periods in Spanish history.
The statue of Philip III has an interesting story. Jean Boulogne and Pietro Tacca created it in 1616. Queen Isabel II ordered its relocation from Casa de Campo to the plaza.
Place de Madrid is more than a tourist spot. It is a symbol of Spanish culture. It reflects Madrid’s rich history. Its architecture showcases the transition from Baroque to Neoclassical styles. The square has 237 balconies, 76 lofts and 114 arches. In the 15th century, it was outside Madrid’s walls. It served as a market then.
The statue in the center of Place de Madrid represents King Philip III. The statue has been in the square since 1848. Once, someone placed an explosive in the horse’s mouth. Bird bones were found inside the statue. Now, the horse’s mouth is closed.
Place de Madrid continues to be a vibrant part of Madrid. It is a testament to the city’s resilience. It is a celebration of Spanish heritage. This square remains a must-see destination for visitors.
As we leave Place de Madrid, remember its layers of history. Remember its resilience. Remember its enduring spirit. It is more than just a square. It is a living story.