Madrid’s Plaza España
Madrid’s Plaza España is one of the most emblematic and visited squares in the city. Located in the centre of the city, it is at the crossroads of some of Madrid’s most important streets, such as Gran Vía and Calle de la Princesa.
The square has a long history dating back to the 18th century, when the Fuente de Cibeles was built. Since then, the square has been an important place for the city, and has been the scene of many historical events.
One of the most outstanding features of Plaza España is the huge statue of Don Quixote and Sancho Panza, located in the centre of the square. The statue was designed by the Madrid sculptor Antonio Palacios, and was unveiled in 1929 as part of the celebrations for the 4th Centenary of the publication of the first part of Don Quixote.
Another attraction in Plaza España is the Edificio España, an imposing 25-storey skyscraper that was inaugurated in 1953. At the time, it was the tallest building in Spain, and remains one of the most emblematic in the city. The building is currently being refurbished and converted into a luxury hotel.
In addition to the statue of Don Quixote and Sancho Panza and the Edificio España, Plaza España also boasts a wide variety of shops, restaurants and cafés, making it a popular meeting place for locals and tourists alike.
It is also important to note that the square is a connecting point between the centre of Madrid and some of the city’s most emblematic neighbourhoods, such as Malasaña, Chueca and Argüelles. For this reason, the square is an ideal starting point for exploring the city.
Latest refurbishment of Plaza España
Madrid’s Plaza España, one of the most emblematic and visited places in the city, has undergone a major refurbishment that has completely transformed its appearance. This refurbishment, which began in 2017 and will be completed in 2021, has involved a significant investment by Madrid City Council.
The reform of Plaza España has been an ambitious project that has included the renovation of the entire public space, the creation of new green areas and the elimination of road traffic in the square. The aim of this reform has been to create a friendlier and more welcoming space for citizens and tourists, as well as to improve the connection between Gran Vía and the surrounding neighbourhoods.
One of the main novelties of the renovation has been the elimination of road traffic in the square. Before the renovation, the square was surrounded by a roundabout that generated a lot of traffic and made access to the square difficult. Now, a larger and more comfortable pedestrian space has been created, with new green areas and rest areas.
Another of the most notable new features of the renovation has been the creation of a large pond in the central area of the square. This pond, which has a surface area of 5,000 square metres, is one of the largest in Europe and is surrounded by a large pedestrian platform that offers spectacular views of the square.
The refurbishment of Plaza España has also included the creation of new green areas and gardens, which have been designed to blend into the urban environment and provide a space for citizens to relax and enjoy. In addition, the accessibility of the square has been improved, eliminating architectural barriers and improving the lighting and signage.
In short, the refurbishment of Plaza España in Madrid has been an ambitious project that has completely transformed the appearance of the square, making it a friendlier and more welcoming space for citizens and tourists. If you visit Madrid, you can’t miss Plaza España and enjoy its new facilities and its impressive pond.
Buildings in Plaza España
Edificio España
One of the most emblematic buildings in Plaza España is the Edificio España. Built in 1953, it is an imposing 25-storey skyscraper that was once the tallest building in Spain. The building is currently being remodelled and converted into a luxury hotel, although it will retain its original façade and historic character at the end of Gran Vía.
Torre de Madrid.
Another important building in Plaza España is the Torre de Madrid. Built in 1957, it is one of the tallest buildings in the city, with a height of 165 metres and 46 floors. At the time, it was the tallest building in Europe and the fifth tallest in the world. Today, it is a residential and office building, with a wide variety of services and shops on the ground floor.
Casa Gallardo
The Casa Gallardo is another of the most emblematic buildings in Plaza España. Built in 1901, it is a modernist building designed by the architect José Espelius. Its glazed ceramic towers stand out, giving it a very characteristic and original appearance. The building is currently being refurbished and is planned to house a cultural and leisure centre.
Where to stay
If you want to live the full experience our recommendation is to stay in Gran Via, the street of Madrid that never sleeps. In this street you can find an extensive network of hotel accommodations like the ones we offer you in SmartRental.
If you want to stay in a luxury aparthotel, we put at your disposal SmartRental Gran vía Centric, with rooms with private terrace and views of the Plaza de Callao.
Book your stay here or contact us at reservas@smartrental.com or call +34 910 284 776
If you opt for a more economical option just 100 meters from the musical, we have at your disposal SmartRental Gran Vía 47 where you can choose rooms with balcony and views of the Gran Vía.
Book your stay here or contact us at reservas@smartrental.com or call +34 910 284 776
