Located in the heart of Gijón, a vibrant city in northern Spain’s Asturias region, Plaza Mayor is a must-see destination for any traveler. This historic square has been the epicenter of Gijón life for centuries and continues to be an important gathering place for both locals and tourists today. With its elegant architecture, lively atmosphere and rich history, Plaza Mayor offers a unique glimpse into the soul of this beautiful Spanish city.
The History of Plaza Mayor
Plaza Mayor was built during the reign of King Charles III in 1757 as part of his urban reform plan. The construction was led by renowned architect Pedro Antonio Menéndez de Ambás who designed it with neoclassical influences that were popular at the time. Its original name was “Alameda” which means ‘poplar grove’, but it was later renamed “Plaza Mayor”.
In its early years, Plaza Mayor served as a marketplace where farmers would come to sell their produce on Sundays. Over time however, it evolved into more than just a market square; becoming an important social hub where people from all walks of life could gather to enjoy public events or simply pass their time leisurely.
A Stroll through Time
Today, stepping onto Plaza Mayor feels like taking a stroll through history itself. The cobblestone streets lead you past beautifully preserved buildings that date back several centuries while offering glimpses into how life might have looked like during those times.
The most prominent building on the plaza is undoubtedly Gijón City Hall (Ayuntamiento de Gijón). Built between 1860 and 1899 under architect Luis Bellido’s design guidance; its majestic clock tower stands tall over the square adding an air of grandeur to this already impressive space.
The Vibrant Atmosphere
Despite its age, Plaza Mayor is anything but a quiet relic of the past. It remains one of the most vibrant parts of Gijón, hosting numerous events and festivals throughout the year. From traditional Asturian music performances to bustling Christmas markets, there is always something happening in this lively square.
Even on quieter days, you can find locals enjoying a cup of coffee at one of the many outdoor cafes that line the plaza or tourists exploring the nearby shops and restaurants. The atmosphere here is always welcoming and relaxed; making it a perfect spot to unwind after a long day of sightseeing.
Culinary Delights
No visit to Plaza Mayor would be complete without indulging in some local cuisine. The surrounding streets are filled with excellent eateries serving everything from traditional Spanish tapas to international dishes. Among them, Sidrerías (cider houses) stand out as they offer an authentic taste of Asturias’ beloved drink: cider.
A Must-Visit Destination
Plaza Mayor truly embodies what makes Gijón such an enchanting city: its rich history combined with a youthful energy that never fails to captivate visitors. Whether you’re interested in architecture, history or simply want to soak up some local culture – this historic square has it all.
In conclusion, Plaza Mayor isn’t just another tourist attraction; it’s where life happens in Gijón – full of charm and character waiting for you to discover!
Frequently asked questions
What is the history of Plaza Mayor in Gijón?
The Plaza Mayor, located in the old town of Gijón, Spain, has a rich and vibrant history. It was originally built in 1862 following a neoclassical design by architect Ricardo Marcos Bausá. The square served as the city’s main marketplace for many years and became an important hub for social and economic activities. Over time it underwent various transformations, reflecting changes in society and urban development trends. Today, it stands as one of Gijón’s most iconic landmarks with its beautiful arcaded buildings that house shops, restaurants and bars.
What can visitors do at Plaza Mayor?
Plaza Mayor offers plenty to see and do for visitors. The square itself is a wonderful place to relax or people-watch amidst historic architecture. Surrounding the plaza are numerous cafes, restaurants, pubs where you can sample local Asturian cuisine or enjoy drinks while soaking up the ambiance of this lively area. Additionally there are several boutiques selling unique items from clothes to souvenirs which makes it perfect for shopping enthusiasts too.
Are there any special events held at Plaza Mayor?
Absolutely! Throughout the year various cultural events take place at Plaza Mayor including concerts during summer evenings under open skies or traditional festivals like Antroxu (Carnival). During Christmas season it transforms into a magical wonderland complete with festive decorations and market stalls selling holiday treats.
How can I get to Plaza Mayor in Gijón?
Gijón is well-connected by roadways making driving an easy option if you’re coming from other parts of Spain such as Madrid or Bilbao; however parking could be challenging due to limited spaces downtown near plaza mayor so public transportation might be more convenient choice here especially during peak hours. The city’s bus station is only about a 10-minute walk from the plaza, and there are also taxi services readily available.
What are the opening hours of Plaza Mayor?
The Plaza Mayor in Gijón is an open public square that can be visited at any time of day or night. However, keep in mind that individual businesses like shops or restaurants surrounding it have their own specific operating hours which usually start around 9-10am until late evening for dining establishments.
