Category Archives: Monuments in Cádiz

The Plaza de San Juan de Dios in Cádiz

The Plaza de San Juan de Dios is one of the most important squares in the city of Cádiz, located in the heart of the historic center. Its irregular layout is due to its location near one of the mouths of the old arm of the sea that crossed the current island of Cádiz. In the 16th century, it became a center of urban activity and a hub for trade with the Americas. It was also used as a public market until the inauguration of the Central Market.

The Plaza de San Juan de Dios is home to several important buildings, including the Town Hall, which was built in the 18th century and is one of the most representative examples of the Elizabethan style in the city. The church of San Juan de Dios is also located in the square and is known for its Baroque facade and ornate interior. Another notable building is the Casa de los Pazos Miranda, also known as the Amaya building, which was built in the 18th century and is considered one of the best examples of Baroque civil architecture in Cádiz.

Hostal Bahia

Set in the historic center of Cadiz, this low-key budget hotel is really close to the Plaza de San Juan de Dios and just a minute’s walk from the Palacio de Congresos. It is also within walking distance from Cádiz train station.

The unassuming, compact rooms come with straightforward furnishings, plus TVs and complimentary Wi-Fi. Some rooms sleep up to 3 people.
There’s a patio with seating, as well as a 24-hour reception.

In 2012, the square underwent a remodeling which included the pedestrianization of the space and the addition of new ornamental elements, such as the monument to the Cádiz politician Segismundo Moret. The monument was originally inaugurated in the square in 1909 and was recovered during the remodeling.

Today, the Plaza de San Juan de Dios is a popular gathering place for locals and tourists alike, offering a unique blend of history and modernity in the heart of Cádiz’s old town.

See the full list of plazas in the city of Cádiz here: https://visitingcadiz.com/plazas-in-cadiz/


The Caminito del Rey

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The Plaza de Mina in Cádiz

The Plaza de Mina in Cádiz is one of the most emblematic and historic squares in the city and is located in the heart of the historic center. It was named after Manuel de la Mina, a local businessman who donated the land to the city in the late 18th century. It is a popular destination for people of all ages and is planted with ornamental and monumental trees and flower beds.

Plaza Mina Suites

Set in a former merchant’s palace dating from 1888, this refined “all-suite” hotel is close to the Plaza de Mina. It is a short walk to Genoves Park, which runs along the shores of the Bay of Cádiz, and 10 minutes to La Caleta Beach. The chic 1- and 2-bedroom suites feature Wi-Fi, kitchens and living/dining rooms, as well as French balconies, flat-screen TVs and Nespresso machines. Upgraded suites have furnished terraces and there is a rooftop terrace with a bar and fantastic views.

The gardens in the Plaza de Mina

The square has a quadrangular floor plan and is organized around a central gazebo. Radial paths connect the gardens with a wide perimeter promenade delimited by trees and benches with wrought iron backs. There are cast iron central lamp posts, and the central area is divided into flower beds.

One of the most notable features of the Plaza Mina is the large central fountain (top image.) This was built in the mid-19th century and is known as the “Fountain of the Four Seasons.” The fountain is adorned with four allegorical statues representing the four seasons of the year.

Ficus in Plaza de Mina
Images from https://josecelestinomutis.cadiz.es/en/ The official Cádiz city website with information about parks, gardens and natural areas.

The outer perimeter of the plaza is made up of four alignments of various species, among which, due to their size and uniqueness, several specimens of Aleppo pine (Pinus halepensis) of approximately 100 years, various specimens of fire tree (Brachychiton acerifolius ), plane trees (Platanus hybrida), tree of heaven (Ailanthus altíssima) or bottle tree (Brachychiton populneus). Likewise, the existing specimens of flamboyán (Delonix regia) stand out for their great beauty when in flower.

Notable buildings surround the Plaza de Mina

The Plaza de Mina is surrounded by majestic houses that represent the bourgeois architecture of Cádiz from the 18th and 19th centuries. Some of these houses show Baroque influences, while others display late Neoclassical or Elizabethan styles.

Notable buildings in the plaza include the Museum of Cádiz and the Casa Pinillos (which is now a cultural centre.) It is also the birthplace of the musician and composer Manuel de Falla, commemorated by a tablet at number 3. Other notable figures who lived in the surrounding buildings include the geologist José Macpherson y Hemas and the philanthropist Ana de Viya Jáuregui at number 8, who devoted her capital to charity and was the founder of the Salesian Professional Schools.

The Plaza de Mina has played an important role in the history of Cádiz, having been the site of many political and social events over the centuries. Today, it remains an important cultural and social hub in the city and is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the rich history and culture of Cádiz.

See the full list of plazas in the city of Cádiz here: https://visitingcadiz.com/plazas-in-cadiz/

See more parks and gardens in Cádiz here: https://visitingcadiz.com/parks-and-gardens/


Ronda Today

Everything you need to know before you visit Ronda “The city of dreams” in Andalucia. https://www.rondatoday.com/

The Caminito del Rey

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Wildside Holidays – Spain

Take a trip on the Wildside! Discover the wildlife and nature of Spain, its Natural and National Parks and find the top wildlife, activity and walking holiday companies.

Iberia Nature Forum

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Discover the Iberia Nature Forum – Environment, geography, nature, landscape, climate, culture, history, rural tourism and travel.

The Plaza de España in Cádiz

If you’re planning a visit to the city of Cádiz, then the Plaza España should definitely be on your list of places to visit and explore. As one of the main landmarks in the city, the plaza is a hub of activity and a central gathering point for both locals and tourists.

One of the most striking features of the plaza is its stunning architecture. The square is surrounded by a mix of impressive buildings that showcase a range of architectural styles, including Neoclassical, Art Deco, and Regionalist. Some of the most notable buildings include the Town Hall, which features a beautiful clock tower, and the Provincial Palace, which is a grand example of Neoclassical architecture.

Soak up the local culture

Aside from its architectural and historical significance, the Plaza España is also a great place to soak up the local culture and enjoy some of the city’s vibrant energy. With a variety of cafes, bars, and restaurants in the area, there’s plenty to see and do. Whether you’re looking for a place to relax and people-watch, or you want to immerse yourself in the local culture, the Plaza España is the perfect spot to do it.

Hotel Casa de las Cuatro Torres

In a landmark 1736 building with observation towers on Plaza de España, this refined hotel in the historic San Carlos district is a 4-minute walk from Cadiz Museum, a 12-minute walk from Cadiz Cathedral and 1 km from Cadiz train station.

The Monument to the Constitution of 1812

The “Monumento a la Constitución de 1812” (Monument to the Constitution of 1812) is a large neoclassical monument. It was built to commemorate the Constitution of 1812, also known as “La Pepa“. This was one of the first constitutions in the world and it was signed in Cádiz. It is considered one of the most important landmarks in Cádiz and is a popular tourist attraction. It is located in the Plaza de España, which is the main square of the city and a hub for transportation and commerce. The monument is also an important symbol of Spanish democracy and the country’s historical heritage.

The monument was designed by the Spanish architect Modesto López Otero and built between 1912 and 1929. It consists of a tall column topped by a statue of a woman holding a flag, representing the Constitution. The column is surrounded by four allegorical figures representing the principles of freedom, equality, law, and education. The base of the monument features several reliefs and inscriptions related to the history and significance of the Constitution of 1812.

The Plaza de España is an essential destination for anyone visiting Cádiz. With its stunning architecture, historical significance, and lively atmosphere, it’s a must-see spot that truly captures the essence of this beautiful city.

See the full list of plazas in the city of Cádiz here: https://visitingcadiz.com/plazas-in-cadiz/


Ronda Today

Everything you need to know before you visit Ronda “The city of dreams” in Andalucia. https://www.rondatoday.com/

The Caminito del Rey

Find tickets for the Caminito del Rey: https://www.caminodelrey.es/

Wildside Holidays – Spain

Take a trip on the Wildside! Discover the wildlife and nature of Spain, its Natural and National Parks and find the top wildlife, activity and walking holiday companies.

Iberia Nature Forum

Struggling with identifying those bugs and beasties? Why not check out the Iberia nature Forum!

Discover the Iberia Nature Forum – Environment, geography, nature, landscape, climate, culture, history, rural tourism and travel.