Plaza Álvarez, Main square in Acapulco, Guerrero, Mexico
Plaza Álvarez is the main square of Acapulco's port, facing Avenida Costera Miguel Alemán. The Cathedral of Nuestra Señora de la Soledad stands at its northern edge, not its center. The square has a kiosk overlooking the coastal avenue, five colonial-style fountains, and a monument to Juan Álvarez near the cathedral.
Originally called Plaza de Armas, following the custom of main squares in New Spain, it was renamed Plaza Álvarez in 1889 after General Juan Álvarez, a leader of the 1854 Revolution of Ayutla and president of Mexico in 1855. During the colonial period the sea invaded the square on several occasions, including on 30 August 1754, when an eruption of the Volcán de Colima caused strong earthquakes in the region. A major remodeling completed on 16 December 1978 added five fountains and a new colonial-style kiosk and closed the perimeter to vehicles.
This plaza is where locals gather throughout the day to chat, rest on benches, and pass time together. The space functions as a natural meeting point where you can observe everyday community life and how residents use the square for daily routines.
The plaza is located in the downtown area and is easy to reach on foot from hotels and beaches. There are small cafes and craft shops nearby that operate during daytime hours.
The five colonial-style fountains and the kiosk were added in the major remodelling of 16 December 1978, which also widened the plaza toward Avenida Costera Miguel Alemán. The monument to Juan Álvarez stands at the northern end, next to the cathedral.
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