Quiet and leisurely Madrid has always attracted tourists from all over the world. Especially the old city center, consisting of narrow stone streets that connect the city squares. It is these squares that are considered the main attractions in the city.
Instructions
Step 1
Puerta del Sol is the center of Spain. It is the starting point for all roads in the country, as evidenced by a plaque installed on the square. In the fifteenth century, the main gate was located here, through which travelers and merchants passed into the country.
Step 2
On the square is the building of the former royal post office, very beautiful of white stone. The clock of this building is the most famous in Spain, it informs the country about the arrival of the new year. Therefore, according to tradition, on a festive night, the square is filled with people.
Step 3
There is a monument to Carlos III on the square. In very distant times, when the city was buried in mud, and garbage was thrown out into the street right through the window, Carlos the third put an end to this and managed to restore order. This is how roads, sewerage systems appeared, a ban on throwing garbage into the street was introduced, many buildings were re-created.
Step 4
Plaza Mayor is the main city square. In ancient times, the market was located there. But Philip the second decided to create on this place an area for entertainment events.
Step 5
Since then, theatrical performances, various performances of singers and dancers, and bullfights have been held here. In addition to entertainment, people were publicly executed in the square. Residents of houses next to which the square was located were obliged to provide their balconies for viewing. Today, the square performs the same function; city programs are held there. It is for this reason that many apartments in this area remain unsold. The place is very noisy and restless.
Step 6
In its lifetime, the square has told a lot - destruction from numerous fires, restoration work, change of names. The names were changed many times, but in the nineteenth century it received a name that has not survived to this day.
Step 7
In the vicinity of the square there are many old shops, cafes and small restaurants. They have not lost their special way of life even now.
Step 8
On the square itself there is a monument to King Philip II, who began to carry out the main work on the reconstruction of the square. Also on the square there is a building in delicate white and pink colors. Various frescoes and small towers add a special beauty to this building - this is the building of the Bread House.
