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 Plazas (II) |
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Plaza de la Cebada - Barley Square
During the early 19 th century, this plaza was the site for public executions. During this time, the instrument used to put criminals to death is called the garrote vil. The most famous bandit executed here is Luis Candelas in 1837.
Madrid bullfights were held at this square before an iron-structured arena was constructed in 1875.
You could visit the Barley square by taking the metro and going down at Tirso de Molina and La Latina stations.
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Plaza de las Cortes - Court s Square
If you wish to visit the Madrid parliament, this is their home. Also called Congreso de los Diputados , the main gate is guarded by several bronze lions.
The main statue is made from cannons that were from the African War in 1860. The figures in the statue are called Daoiz and Velarde - two leaders who were in charge of the resistance against the Napoleonic group in 1808.
There are guided tours available weekly. If you wish to go on your own, you can take the metro and go to the Sevilla station.
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Plaza de España - Spanish Square
This extensive plaza is an open garden with numerous statues that honor Madrid s finest people.
The west side of the plaza displays a stone statue of Cervantes, which was built in 1927.
Another attraction in the square is a statue of Don Quixote riding a horse beside San Panza on a donkey. This statue was built in 1815.
The east side of the plaza is where the Edificio España stands. Constructed in 1953, its 26-storey building is considered as the first highest structure in Madrid .
At the north side, you will see the Torre Madrid , which was built in 1957. This building, which is based on American architectural design, is 449 feet high and has 34 floors. During its completion, it was considered Europe s tallest building, at that time. This building signifies the economic recovery after the Civil War.
The nearest metro station is also called Plaza de España .
Plaza de la Lealtad - Loyalty Square
This stylish square includes the Madrid Stock Exchange and the Ritz Hotel . The Stock Exchange building, which was built in 1884, has a neoclassic design similar to Prado s architecture.
The Plaza de la Lealtad center of attraction is an obelisk that was built to commemorate those who were killed on May 3, 1808 when the Napoleonic troops invaded. At the foot of the memorial, you can see an urn of those brave souls who passed away.
Located near the Banco de España train station, the Loyalty Square is one magnificent Madrid attraction that you should not miss.
Plaza de Santa Ana - St. Anna s Square
At this exact location, the Santa Ana Monastery once stood. Unfortunately, during the time of Joseph Bonaparte, it was destroyed. Today, it is safely bordered with bars and is a perfect place to relax and watch the people walk by.
The heart of the plaza displays the statue of a prominent dramatist named Calderon de la Barca s.
On the east side of the plaza, you could see the Teatro Español . Since the first open-air theater was burnt down, it was reconstructed in 1849.
You could visit St. Anna s Square by riding the station to Sol and Sevilla.
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Plaza Dos de Mayo - Second of May Square
Located near the Glorieta de Alonso Martinez , this large area borders the Calle San Bernardo and the Gran Via .
This famous square was once the scene of the glorious events during the Independence War against France in the 19 th century.
Today, it is a busy street with baroque churches, bars, museums, discos, and many boutiques and cafés.
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