Introduction
Plaza Mayor is the principal public square in the historic center of Madrid, built between 1580 and 1619 near Puerta del Sol. Rectangular in shape and lined with porticoed, arcaded buildings featuring period architecture, it includes the frescoed Casa de la Panadería and an equestrian statue of King Philip III. Once the site of markets, festivals, and events during the Spanish Inquisition, today it's a lively spot to relax, dine, shop, and enjoy street performers.