Your next attraction is Plaça d’Espanya
Plaça d’Espanya, located in the heart of Palma de Mallorca, is one of the most important and bustling squares in the city, acting as a gateway to many attractions and serving as a central transportation hub.
Key Highlights:
- Historic Significance: Plaça d’Espanya has been a central point in Palma for centuries, historically serving as the main entry point into the city’s old town. The square was established in 1901 following the demolition of the old city walls as part of the Pla Calvet urban reform. This transformation marked the beginning of Plaça d’Espanya as a central and accessible space in Palma.
- Monumental Statue: One of the most notable features of Plaça d’Espanya is the statue of King Jaume I, also known as James I of Aragon, at the center of the square. This statue commemorates the king who conquered Mallorca in 1229, bringing the island under Christian rule. The statue is a prominent landmark in the square, symbolizing the historical significance of King Jaume I’s reign.
- Barometer: Another fascinating feature of Plaça d’Espanya is the Barómetro de Gaspar Bennàzar. Designed by the renowned architect Gaspar Bennàzar in 1910, this weather station has been a central fixture in the square for over a century. The barometer is not just a functional piece of equipment but also a historical artifact, featuring a thermometer, hygrometer, and barometer. It provides weather information and displays the distances to 48 major towns and villages on the island. Gaspar Bennàzar, who served as the municipal architect of Palma for more than three decades, had a significant influence on the city’s urban landscape. He was responsible for planning the inner city ring and designing several iconic buildings, including the old slaughterhouse S’Escorxador and the mansion on Plaça d’Espanya that now houses Bar Cristal.
- Transport Hub: Plaça d’Espanya is the main transportation hub in Palma, home to the Estació Intermodal. This station connects various modes of transport, including buses, trains, and the metro, making it an essential point for navigating the island. The square is a key location for Palma’s transportation network, with links to various parts of the island, including the Tren de Sóller.
Practical Information:
- What to See Nearby: Surrounding Plaça d’Espanya, you’ll find a variety of cafes, restaurants, and shops. It’s an ideal spot to take a break, enjoy a coffee, and watch the world go by. The square’s central location also makes it a perfect starting point for exploring other attractions in Palma, such as the nearby Mercat de l’Olivar, a bustling market offering fresh produce and local delicacies.
- Events: The square often hosts cultural events, markets, and public gatherings, adding to its vibrant atmosphere throughout the year.
Plaça d’Espanya is more than just a transportation hub; it’s a place where history, culture, and modern life intersect. Whether you’re passing through on your way to another destination or spending time soaking in the atmosphere, this square offers a unique glimpse into the heart of Palma de Mallorca.
Have you ever visited a lively square like this before? In the bustling heart of Palma, where history and modernity meet, a unique challenge awaits. Look closely at the square’s intriguing landmarks and see if you can solve this distance mystery!
Team Building Challenge:
In Palma’s square, a curious sight,
With four faces, it stands upright.
One side tells of moisture’s play,
Another shows the weather’s sway.
A third reveals the temperature’s climb,
The fourth, distances in kilometers’ time.
From ART, BIN, CAP,
MAN, and RAN, here’s a map:
Add their distances, find the sum,
Solve the riddle, and you’re done.
What’s the total distance, can you say?
Add them up, and solve the way.
Enter your answer below: