Scene of the Spanish Inquisition's autos-da-fe, bullfights, great theatrical productions and even public executions, Madrid's Plaza Mayor dates from 1620 yet remains the great 'theatre' of the capital of Spain. A magnificent space to meet, to stroll or to enjoy the city sun sitting at one of the terrazas. Symbol par excellence of the Madrid de los Austrias, as evidenced by the equestrian statue of Felipe III, which stands in the centre of the square.

The frescoes of the Casa de la Panaderia add their own brand of colour to this porticoed square that gives onto the neighbouring streets by means of nine gateways, notable among them, the Cuchilleros arch. The Cuevas - "caves" - of Luis Candelas recall the romantic Madrid of the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, whose flavor lingers in the vicinity.