Main Square, Porticoed square in Sol, Spain.
Main Square is an enclosed plaza in Sol, Spain, surrounded by four-story buildings with continuous arcades running along the ground floors. Nine arched passageways connect the plaza to surrounding lanes, while a bronze equestrian statue stands on a pedestal in the center.
The plaza originated in the late 16th century under Philip III, when a marketplace was transformed into an enclosed ensemble of residential and commercial buildings. Fires in 1631, 1670, and 1790 led to extensive rebuilds, which established the uniform facade design visible today.
The arcade arches carry names like Arco de Cuchilleros or Arco de la Sal, recalling old craft quarters and goods once traded here. On Sundays, stamp and coin collectors gather beneath the porticos to exchange or offer their finds.
The plaza is fully accessible to pedestrians and works well for an early morning visit when fewer people are around. The arcades offer shelter from rain and strong sun, while the terraces of surrounding venues stay open throughout the day.
The facade paintings on Casa de la Panadería date from 1992, when artist Carlos Franco created mythological scenes tied to Madrid folklore. Beneath the plaza paving runs an underground passage that once linked royal chambers and remains sealed today.
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