Plaza de España in Zaragoza

Plaza de España de Zaragoza: the heart of the city

Plaza de España in Zaragoza is the meeting point between Paseo Independencia and El Coso, in addition to marking the boundary between the old town and the city center. This square, along with the Plaza del Pilar, are the two most important squares in the city and reflect its history and cultural diversity.

In addition, it is considered the heart of the city because it is the meeting point for thousands of Zaragoza residents and visitors. A historical treasure that represents the Roman legacy and the festive spirit of the Aragonese people.

Important buildings such as the headquarters of the Provincial Council and the headquarters of the Bank of Spain in Zaragoza are located in this square. And in the center of the square is the Monument to the Martyrs by Ricardo Magdalena.

Brief history of Plaza de España in Zaragoza

Plaza de España, which has been named since 1940, was conceived in the mid-19th century as the starting point for the city's urban expansion to the south. Its development meant leaving behind the old city with all the ruins left by the sieges of 1808. In 1853, the headquarters of the Provincial Council was built on the site of the destroyed convent of San Francisco.

Later, in 1845, the Fountain of the Princess began to operate, which for the first time brought running water to the city center. In 1904, this fountain was replaced by the Monument to the Martyrs of Religion and the Homeland that you can see today. And that in turn recalls the disappeared Cruz del Coso in memory of the 15th-century martyrs.

Currently, you can visit the Fountain of the Princess in the charming Parque Grande de Zaragoza. This fountain was created by Agustín Querol and represents a dying Aragonese man held by an angel who is pointing to the sky.

The Zaragoza City Council has played a fundamental role in the preservation and promotion of this historic square. Thanks to its work, Plaza de España has become a symbol of the heritage of Aragon.

The historical buildings and monuments that you can admire in this important square

With roots dating back to the Roman period, this square has impressive architecture that combines ancient and modern elements. Visitors can contemplate the archaeological remains of the Roman wall that are located in the subsoil, as well as the historical buildings that surround the square.

In the center of the square is the Monument to the Martyrs of Religion and the Homeland with a fountain, which commemorates the citizens who fell during the Sieges of Zaragoza (two sieges that this city suffered during the War of Independence).

On one side of the square is the Palace of the Provincial Council. Its origins date back to 1853 and, at present, it is the headquarters of the provincial local government. This building stands out for its neoclassical facade, which replaced the original one from 1952.

In 1860, the Paseo Imperial, currently called Paseo de la Independencia, a central boulevard bordered by buildings and arcades, was born. In 1910, the façade of La Joyita was built, in front of which was El Coso, and in it, the Casino Mercantil, a work by Francisco de Albiñana and which today is a bank headquarters. In 2004, the Puerta Cinegia buildings were inaugurated in the square at El Coso 35. They are the most modern in the square and are located on both sides of the entrance to the popular “El Tubo” area that starts right there. The wider Puerta Cinegia building houses restaurants, shops, bars, a modern gastronomic space, remains of the Roman wall, and a Gothic courtyard where temporary exhibitions are held.

Another beautiful shopping street that you should visit is Calle Don Jaime I, which runs through the entire old town to Plaza del Pilar.

Plaza de España is also known for its cultural events and festivities. Throughout the year, concerts, exhibitions, and traditional celebrations take place, enlivening the atmosphere and making visitors enjoy.

In addition to those of Plaza de España, very close on the city map, you will see other great tourist attractions of Zaragoza such as the Cathedral of Zaragoza, the Main Theater, the Auditorium of Zaragoza, the Goya Museum, the Central Market, the Bullring, or the Monasterio de Piedra.

Are you looking for a hotel in Zaragoza to visit Plaza de España? In that case, we have three welcoming B&B HOTELS in Zaragoza waiting for you to fully enjoy your stay in the Aragonese capital at affordable prices.

You will feel at home from the moment you arrive at any B&B HOTELS. We are waiting for you!

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