Zocodover Square

As you arrive on Zocodover Square, you’ll quickly realize you’ve reached the very heart of Toledo—the historic and social nerve center of the city, where life has pulsed for centuries. Part of the square dates back to the 16th century and was built during the reign of Philip II of Spain. Son of Charles V and Isabella of Portugal, he ruled over Spain, Portugal, England (through his marriage to Queen Mary), Milan, the seventeen provinces of the Netherlands, and the vast Spanish Empire in the Americas. Under his reign, Spain reached the peak of its global influence and wealth—the renowned Spanish Golden Age. The name “Zocodover” originates from Arabic, meaning “marketplace of pack animals”, which makes sense, as during the city’s Islamic period, this is where you would come to buy horses, donkeys, foals, and other working animals. The square has also hosted public festivals and bullfights. However, it was also the place used for auto-da-fé ceremonies and public executions, carried out by the Spanish Inquisition. Its current appearance—a rectangular square surrounded by arcades—dates back to a major reconstruction project in 1854, following a devastating fire in 1589 that destroyed most of the original space. Today, Zocodover remains a vibrant gathering place for locals, and an essential stop for visitors from around the world.