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The Plaza Mayor (Main Square) was built by Juan Gómez de Mora in 1619 during the reign of Felipe III, whose equestrian statue stands in the center of the square. It is enclosed by surrounding buildings with balconies and measures 120 x 90 meters (394 x 295 feet). During the course of its long history, the Plaza Mayor was used for festivals, bullfights, as a place for public executions, and other events. Today, it is a popular meeting point used for cultural events. Restaurants, bars, and stores can be found under the surrounding arcades, and in the spring and summer months terrazas (outdoor cafes) are set up over the big esplanade.
There are a total of 9 entrance gates to the Plaza Mayor, the most well known being the Arco de Chuchilleros (Arch of Catlers) on the southwestern corner of the square that leads to Calle de Cuchilleros.
The main tourist office in Madrid, Madrid Tourism Center (Tel. 91 588 16 36) is located in the Plaza Mayor, 27, and is open everyday from 09:30 to 20:30 hours.
Nearest metro station: Sol (Line 2).
Photos
Entrance gate to the Plaza Mayor from Calle de Felipe III.
The equestrian statue of Felipe III in the center of Plaza Mayor.
Accommodation, Lodging, Hotels, and Hostels near Plaza Mayor. Where to Sleep.
Hotel Plaza Mayor ** - Calle Atocha, 2. - 50 meters from Plaza Mayor.
Hostal La Perla Asturiana - Plaza de Santa Cruz, 3. - 50 meters from Plaza Mayor.
Hostal Cruz Sol - Plaza de Santa Cruz, 6. - 50 meters from Plaza Mayor.
Hostal Santa Cruz - Plaza de Santa Cruz, 6. - 50 meters from Plaza Mayor.
Hostal Tijcal - Zaragoza, 6. - Plaza Mayor.
Hostal La Casa de la Plaza - Calle Plaza de San Miguel, 5. - West of Plaza Mayor.
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