Near the Royal Palace, we find the Plaza de Oriente, one of the most central in Madrid. This square is a historical monument, since in it you can find various sculptures, which commemorate the history of the Spanish kings. In addition, its beautiful gardens and precious fountains make the place an ideal area to relax and enjoy the day.
In the mid-18th century, the Royal Palace of Madrid was accompanied not by a square, but by a neighborhood that had begun to grow during the Middle Ages. However, this would change quickly.
A new urban plan, promoted by King Ferdinand VII, was taking shape, and one of his objectives was to move through the houses and buildings near the palace, to found a square in its place.
Thus began the construction of the Plaza de Oriente, which took centuries to complete, since something else had to be added or subtracted from it. However, plans to create the plaza continued, and it was officially completed in 1941, when its last garden was added.
The Plaza de Oriente is close to the Teatro Real, the Almudena Cathedral and the Sabatini Gardens. But do not think that it is the only one of the emblematic squares of Madrid, Plaza Mayor and Plaza de la Cibeles, among others, are also in this category.
Being passing through Madrid is a wonderful experience, in which you will discover many things that identify this European capital. In order not to miss out on anything, make a space in your plans to visit the Plaza de Oriente and its 7 most important tourist attractions.
Let’s get to know them !:
1. Monument to the kings
To admire the history of this Iberian nation, you must stop at the Plaza de Oriente, and take a moment to observe the 20 statues that represent the most significant kings of ancient Spain.
2. Equestrian sculpture of Felipe IV
Located in the center of the square, the statue of King Philip IV is known for being one of the first in the world in which the horse was represented standing on its hind legs.
3. The Royal Theater
Located at the end of the Plaza de Oriente, the Royal Theater dominates the landscape. This is the most famous opera house in the city, and it still continues to offer spectacular concerts and operatic works.
4. The gardens
The Plaza de Oriente has the Lepanto Gardens and the Cape Noval Gardens, which turn the square into a city oasis. If you want to take a break and rest a bit, these gardens are the ideal place.
5. Archaeological remains
One of the curiosities of the Plaza de Oriente is that archaeological remains were found under it. The most striking is a large stone, which was part of a Muslim watchtower. This is exhibited in the parking lot of the plaza.
6. The Royal Palace
Without a doubt, if there is a place in Madrid from where you can see the Royal Palace up close, that is the Plaza de Oriente. In addition, it is ideal for taking pictures with the most important residence in Spain in the background.
7. The environment
The Plaza de Oriente has a less hectic pace than other Madrid squares, but that does not take away any of its charm. After spending an afternoon here, you are sure to want to come back soon.
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