Plaza Mayor of Almagro
Castilla-La Mancha
The Plaza Mayor of Almagro is a remarkable historic square located in the city of Almagro, Castile-La Mancha, Spain. Known for its distinctive 16th-century architecture, the square features glazed galleries along two of its larger sides, a rare example in Castilian architecture influenced by the German Fugger banking family. The plaza hosts the city hall and the historic Corral de Comedias theatre, making it a cultural hub. The town of Almagro itself has roots dating back to a small Muslim castle, evolving into an important center for the Order of Calatrava after the Battle of Las Navas de Tolosa in 1212. The square's harmonious two-story arcades rest on 85 Tuscan stone columns and are painted in the local red clay color, "almagra," from which the town derives its name. The plaza has undergone restorations, notably in the 1960s, preserving its noble and splendid 16th-century character. Its irregular rectangular shape measures approximately 104.5 by 37 meters. The eastern side features the elegant city hall building with a notable iron clock tower and a bell dating back to 1798. The plaza's unique blend of historical significance, architectural beauty, and cultural vitality makes it a must-visit landmark in the region.
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Consiglio: The best time to visit Plaza Mayor of Almagro is during spring and early autumn when the weather is mild and the square hosts cultural events. It is recommended to book tickets in advance for performances at the Corral de Comedias theatre. Visitors can benefit from discounts offered to seniors, students, and groups. Exploring the plaza early in the morning or late afternoon allows for pleasant lighting and fewer crowds. Guided tours are available to enrich the historical experience.
Fatti interessanti
- •The name 'Almagro' comes from the Arabic 'al-magra', referring to the local red clay used in the plaza's construction.
- •The distinctive glazed galleries reflect northern European architectural influences introduced by the Fugger banking family in the 16th century.
- •The bell in the city hall’s clock tower dates back to 1798 and originated from the old Franciscan convent of Santa Catalina.
- •King Alfonso X the Wise convened the Cortes (parliament) in Almagro in 1273, highlighting its historical political importance.
- •The plaza’s arcades are supported by 85 Tuscan stone columns with wooden beams painted in the traditional red clay color.
Storia
Almagro originated as a small Muslim castle, likely where the hermitage of San Juan now stands.
After the Battle of Las Navas de Tolosa in 1212, the fief was granted to Gonzalo Yáñez de Noboa, Grand Master of the Order of Calatrava, confirmed by King Ferdinand III in 1222.
The town became the capital of the Calatrava Order and an important regional center.
In the 16th century, the Fugger family, German bankers under Charles V, influenced the redevelopment of the medieval plaza, adding the distinctive glazed galleries.
The square has also been known by various names throughout history, including Plaza de la Constitución and Plaza Real.
A significant restoration in the 1960s, led by architect Francisco Pons-Sorolla, restored the plaza’s 16th-century splendor.
Guida del luogo
City Hall (Ayuntamiento)1865 (major renovation)
Located on the eastern side of the plaza, the City Hall has an elegant stone façade with three doors and iron-grilled windows on the ground floor, and a continuous balcony with five arched windows above. It features a distinctive iron clock tower with a bell from 1798, originally from the Franciscan convent of Santa Catalina.
Glazed Galleries16th century
The two longer sides of the plaza are characterized by two-story arcades with glazed galleries, a unique feature in Castilian architecture. Originally open and public spaces for watching performances, these galleries were later enclosed and painted in the local red clay color, giving the plaza its distinctive appearance.
Corral de Comedias Theatre17th century
A historic open-air theatre located in the plaza, renowned for preserving the traditional Spanish Golden Age theatrical architecture and still hosting performances today.
Contatto
Telefono: 926 86 07 17
