| The Plaza Mayor in Madrid, Spain is still one of the | | | | individuals desiring to look down on whatever event |
| city's main tourist sites. Despite being victim to | | | | is happening in the square. |
| several fires throughout the years, the Plaza Mayor | | | | During the summer season, there will be many tables |
| retains its appeal. This plaza is one of the best places | | | | are set out where are a tourist can rest and even |
| in this capital city to relax and observe a unique blend | | | | enjoy a meal or a drink. It doesn't matter where you |
| of residents and tourists. Though there are so many | | | | sit, a waiter from a nearby restaurant will soon arrive |
| attractions, tours and beautiful beaches to visit in | | | | to take your order. You can experience Madrid's |
| Spain, a visit to Madrid and its Plaza Mayor should be | | | | friendly atmosphere first-hand. |
| on the list of attractions. | | | | There are dozens of restaurants, cafes and bars |
| The Plaza Mayor has hosted many festivals, bullfights | | | | along with many shops to visit. You can find antiques, |
| and political battles throughout the years. It has even | | | | coins and so many other unique items. |
| hosted more than one beheading. A lot has happened | | | | Of course, as with any large city, Madrid does |
| in this historic plaza, but today you will probably be | | | | experience some petty crime. Visitors should be sure |
| more likely to see a tourist relaxing and enjoying the | | | | to take appropriate cautions and remain aware of |
| sunny climate. The plaza also offers a great place for | | | | the surroundings. There is no need to be paranoid, |
| a stroll with its surrounding shops and baker's guild. | | | | but a little prudence goes a long way and could |
| The plaza was constructed in approximately 1790 by | | | | prevent being taken advantage of. |
| Phillipe III after suffering a fire. It was originally part | | | | Today, a tourist is unlikely to observe a royal |
| of the efforts of Phillippe II to make Madrid the | | | | coronation, but imaging what it would have been like |
| capital of the country. The statute in the center of | | | | is not difficult. Fortunately, visitors do not need to be |
| the plaza is a reminder to visitors. | | | | concerned about observing an auto de fe, a judicial |
| It is not a large plaza, as it is only 100m on each side. | | | | sentencing seen during the Spanish Inquisition. |
| Do not let the size fool you, though. Within that small | | | | Madrilenos are now far more interested in enjoying |
| area, 50,000 people had stood at some time. This | | | | the beautiful surroundings, sunny climate and life in |
| plaza has literally served as a public square, whether | | | | general. Whether your lodging is on one of Spain's |
| during one of the city's festivals or one of Spain's | | | | beautiful beaches such as Denia or in its scenic |
| executions. | | | | countryside, a visit to Madrid will be unforgettable |
| Rather than Spanish Inquisition trials, you will now find | | | | with so much history, art, shopping and fun. While |
| weddings. Lounging in the summer season has | | | | you are in Madrid, go ahead and join the Madrilenos in |
| alternated with bullfighting. The surrounding buildings | | | | the Plaza Mayor! |
| around the plaza provide a convenient place for | | | | |