Saint Anne Square (Madrid)
Saint Anne Square, also known as Prince Alfonso Square, is a monumental square in Madrid, located in the downtown district.
Originally, in the area that the square occupies today, there was a Catholic architectural complex of the Discalced Carmelites that included a monastery, church and convent, along with orchards and gardens. However, at the beginning of the 19th century, it was demolished to make way for an ambitious urban reorganization plan.
Since then, the square has undergone a series of renovations that have radically changed its original appearance since it opened in 1810. Some of the square’s great attractions are the many buildings of great tourist and heritage interest. Among them are the Reina Victoria Hotel and the Spain Theatre, as well as the splendid sculptures of great Spanish playwrights: Pedro Calderón de la Barca and Federico Garcia Lorca.
Another reason why Saint Anne Square has a special charm is because it is near some of the oldest hospitality establishments in Madrid. Among the most important establishments are Cafe La Switzerland, founded in 1879, and the German Brewery, established in 1904. The latter was a regular meeting place for great artists and personalities such as Luis Miguel Dominguín and Ernest Hemingway.
Originally, in the area that the square occupies today, there was a Catholic architectural complex of the Discalced Carmelites that included a monastery, church and convent, along with orchards and gardens. However, at the beginning of the 19th century, it was demolished to make way for an ambitious urban reorganization plan.
Since then, the square has undergone a series of renovations that have radically changed its original appearance since it opened in 1810. Some of the square’s great attractions are the many buildings of great tourist and heritage interest. Among them are the Reina Victoria Hotel and the Spain Theatre, as well as the splendid sculptures of great Spanish playwrights: Pedro Calderón de la Barca and Federico Garcia Lorca.
Another reason why Saint Anne Square has a special charm is because it is near some of the oldest hospitality establishments in Madrid. Among the most important establishments are Cafe La Switzerland, founded in 1879, and the German Brewery, established in 1904. The latter was a regular meeting place for great artists and personalities such as Luis Miguel Dominguín and Ernest Hemingway.
Location
Civil Buildings in Madrid
Religious Buildings in Madrid
Museums in Madrid
