Plaza Mayor is a large square in the center of old Madrid, near the Puerta del Sol.

The square is enclosed by three-story high buildings. The lower floor is used for shops and restaurants, the upper levels are in use as apartments.

 

The Casa de la Panadería on the north side is for municipal purposes and sports colorful frescos of mythological figures, designed by Carlos Franco in 1988.

 

A  bronze statue of Philipe III dominates the square because the construction started in 1617 under his reign.

 

The Plaza in its present form dates from 1790 after devastating fires leveled the old square.

 

Over the centuries the location has been used for markets and lodging, bull fighting, public penance and executions and several sport events. Its name has changed many times until after the Civil War it was named Pllaza Mayor.

 

The Plaza is very popular with tourists because of the many street-artists and outdoor eateries.