Casa de la Villa

This charming little pedestrian square is one of the best-preserved historic sites in the city, featuring light brick façades and a cobbled ground. It showcases a beautiful mix of architecture from the 15th to the 18th century — a true time capsule of the city’s past. Picture yourself in medieval Madrid. You’re standing in the heart of one of its earliest settlements. Three of Madrid’s original streets branch out from here: Calle del Cordón, Calle del Codo, and Calle de Madrid. On your left is the Casa de la Villa, built in 1640 by Juan Gómez de la Mora — the same architect behind the Plaza Mayor. Before becoming Madrid’s city hall, it served as a prison. Opposite you’ll spot the Casa y Torre de los Lujanes, a 15th-century Mudéjar-style palace. It’s the oldest building on the square and houses the Royal Academy of Moral and Political Sciences. The Casa de Cisneros in front of you is a reconstruction of a Renaissance palace from the 16th century, best known for its elegant façade. At the centre of the square stands a statue of Álvaro de Bazán, the Marquis of Santa Cruz, commemorated for his naval victories.