Plaça del Rei facts for kids
Plaça del Rei (pronounced "Plah-sah del Ray") means "King's Square" in Catalan, the language spoken in Barcelona, Spain. It's a beautiful public square from the 14th century, located in the old Gothic Quarter of Barcelona. This historic square is like stepping back in time to the Middle Ages, surrounded by important royal buildings.
Contents
A Glimpse into Royal History
Plaça del Rei is a very special place because it was once the main courtyard of the Palau Reial Major, which means "Grand Royal Palace." This palace was where the Counts of Barcelona and later the Kings of Aragon lived and ruled. Many important events happened here centuries ago.
Buildings Around the Square
The square is surrounded by several historic buildings that were all part of the royal complex.
The Grand Royal Palace
The Palau Reial Major itself is a large, impressive building. Inside, you'll find the Saló del Tinell, which was a grand hall used for important meetings and celebrations. Imagine kings and queens holding feasts or making big decisions in this very room!
The Lieutenant's Palace
Next to the main palace is the Palau del Lloctinent, or "Lieutenant's Palace." A lieutenant was someone who acted on behalf of the king, especially when the king was away. This building was where the king's representative would live and work.
King Martin's Watchtower
One of the most striking features of the square is the Mirador del Rei Martí, or "King Martin's Watchtower." This tall, elegant tower was built in the 15th century. It was a place where King Martin could look out over his city and the surrounding areas.
The Royal Chapel of St. Agatha
Also part of the square is the Capella Reial de Santa Àgata, which means "Royal Chapel of St Agatha." This beautiful chapel was built in the 15th century and was used by the royal family for prayer and religious ceremonies. It has a unique design and is a wonderful example of Gothic architecture.
Padellàs's House and the City Museum
On the southern side of Plaça del Rei stands Casa Padellàs. This building is quite interesting because it wasn't originally built here! It's a 15th to 16th-century palazzo (a grand house) that was moved stone by stone from another street in Barcelona in 1931. Since 1943, Casa Padellàs has been home to the Barcelona City History Museum (MUHBA). Inside, you can learn all about Barcelona's past, from ancient Roman times to the present day.
Modern Art in a Historic Setting
Even though Plaça del Rei is very old, it also has a touch of modern art. In one of its corners, you can find Topos V, a sculpture by the famous artist Eduardo Chillida. This artwork adds a unique contrast to the ancient surroundings, showing how history and modern creativity can exist together.
Plaça del Rei is a must-see spot in Barcelona, offering a fascinating journey back to the city's royal past.
