Plaça de la Vila, Central square in Vilanova i la Geltrú, Spain
Plaça de la Vila is a rectangular plaza in Vilanova i la Geltrú with covered arcades running along two sides and symmetrical facades topped with aligned balconies. The enclosed space is defined by substantial buildings that create a cohesive architectural frame.
The plaza was built on the site of a former Capuchin monastery that was purchased in 1845 by Josep Parellada and subsequently transformed into a public square. This conversion marked a turning point in how the town developed as an urban center.
The square has been the center of public life in the town for generations, where locals gather to shop, socialize, and spend time under the arcades. The atmosphere here reflects how the community uses the space as both a meeting point and a quiet refuge.
The square is easy to reach and sits at the junction of main pedestrian routes, with the City Hall located along one side making it a natural gathering point. The arcades provide shelter from rain and are comfortable for walking and lingering.
The ground is paved with Portuguese-style black and white tiles arranged in geometric patterns, giving the plaza an unexpected decorative character. This detail hints at the town's maritime history and its connections to trade and cultural exchange.
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