Travel Guide - Around Madrid

Plaza de Oriente

Next to the Teatro Real and Palacio Real is this square with its countless cafes. The square was designed by Joseph Bonaparte who took over the Spanish government after his brother's victory over the country. His original plan was to build a boulevard that would somehow emulate the Champs Elys?s extending from the plaza to Cibeles Fountain.

However, after Napoleon's defeat, Joseph was unable to carry through his project and instead the square was left as it can be seen today, an attractive vehicle-less open space.

When on your Language Trip in Madrid to learn Spanish be sure to enjoy an afternoon strolling around the Plaza de Oriente.