If you are finally in your lodging facilities and off to see what Madrid, Spain has to offer, one of the first tours you should book is one of Madrid's most famous: the Plaza Mayor. You will find that it has changed names over time, gone through historic fires but still has a flair that makes it unique. Throughout the architectural work you see here, the art, the people all make it one of the best places for both the locals of Madrid and the tourists visiting. You don't even have to to enjoy it.

What Is It?

The location is one that has seen history take place. It has been the place for political battles throughout the ages, festivals of all types, bullfights themselves and even a few beheadings. Though today, you are likely to simply tour the location and enjoy a bite to eat in the beautiful climate of Madrid. Surrounding you are beautiful shops that offer plenty to see and do. There is something here for everyone.

It was first established centuries before it looked as it does. A fired destroyed the location in 1790. Phillipe II wanted Madrid to be the capital of Spain and completed the plaza in 1619, under Phillipe III. You will see the statue of Phillipe III in the plaza itself. Today it is about 100 m on each side. Inside, about 50,000 people can visit. It has been filled with people looking to enjoy the many festivals in Madrid's culture, as well as many of the horrific scenes including executions. This is the ultimate public square. Weddings have taken place here, as has the Spanish Inquisition. One common enjoyable activity that takes place every summer is the bullfights. The buildings surrounding the plaza are great for high viewing locations for what's happening down below.

What's There Now

If you visit the Plaza Mayor today, you'll find tourists enjoying a summer's meal from one of the tables located here. With restaurants surrounding the plaza, it offers a chance to enjoy a range of foods. The location is surrounding with dozens of restaurants, as well as bars and cafes. Once done with your meal, you can enjoy a bit of a nap here and then head out to explore the many shops lining the streets with coins, antiques, and a variety of other goods.

Tourists should take care to avoid any type of crime that may find them here. Plaza Mayor is a safe place, but like any location that attracts a large crowd, you should remain protected. It is not likely that you will see a royal coronation happen here, but a glance around you is sure to show you what it would look like. Do not worry about seeing anything that would be horrific or horrid because these things do not happen here any longer. You still will find that there is so much to enjoy here, including the people. Enjoy life as they do and visit the Plaza Mayor for all that it can offer you on your travels through Madrid and Spain.