Plaza Mayor

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Just a few short steps west of Puerta del Sol is the main square Plaza Mayor. At one time, Plaza Mayor was the very center of Old Madrid, making it one of the most historical spots in Madrid today. Known as the "Tourist Center" of Madrid, Plaza Mayor is an astonishing square filled with traditional restaurants and markets surrounded by a wall of art and history. Stroll through the maze of street vendors, snag your place on a city walking tour, and enjoy some of Spain's traditional Paella! "Gustos Madrid" is one of the best spots in Plaza Mayor to try some authentic Spanish Paella. This classic dish is made with rice, vegetables, chicken, seafood, and a wild blend of spices cooked in a very specific pan. The dish is actually named after the pan it is cooked in: a Paellera! Traditionally, the paella is cooked in the large paellera and placed in the middle of the table and guests eat directly out of the large pan. No dishes wasted! In Plaza Mayor you'll see many diners with giant paelleras in the middle of the table. Don't worry, that's how it's supposed to be! Plaza Mayor is the best place to see all of Spain's food traditions come to life, especially holiday foods! During the holiday season, Plaza Mayor is full of traditional Christmas markets that add a festive vibe to the classic square. The holidays are very important to the Spanish people. While Christmas is widely celebrated, another popular holiday in Spain is Three Kings Day. In early January, children all over Spain get ready for the celebration of the Three Wise Men and wait for the Magi to leave presents on the night of the 5th. They celebrate this special day by attending the large Three Kings Day Parade in the city center and eating some Roscon. Roscon is a festive sweet bread shared by the whole family. By tradition, a small trinket is baked inside the bread and whoever gets the piece with the trinket pays for the meal! Photo by Eduardo Rodriguez from Unsplash