Placa del Rei (King's Square), Barcelona

King's Square epitomizes Barcelona's historical essence as the center of county and royal authority. Originating from an urbanization initiative by King Martí I of Aragon, otherwise known as Martí the Human, in the late 14th century, the square was designed to host tournaments, displacing the traditional market. It retains a rectangular shape and is encased by Gothic and Renaissance buildings, creating a closed circuit except for its southwest end.

The square's name comes from the Grand Royal Palace of the Counts of Barcelona whose Gothic facade dominates its north side. The palace complex also encompasses the exquisite 13th-century Royal Chapel of Santa Agata and the romantic Renaissance Tower of King Martí, which offers views over the medieval city. The eastern edge is marked by the 14th-century Tinell Hall, the palace's central hall, accessible via a staircase.

According to historians, it was on these very steps, which spread out from the corner of the square, that in 1493 King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella welcomed Christopher Columbus and his crew upon their return from the first successful voyage to the New World. Once used as a meeting place for the Spanish Inquisition, the hall capitalized on the popular belief that its walls would reveal any lies spoken within. Nowadays, the building hosts temporary exhibitions and occasional concerts.

This square's main royal edifices can be accessed through the Barcelona History Museum, housed in the impressive Gothic Padellàs building. Together with the 16th-century Renaissance Lieutenant’s Palace, they complete the square's layout.

Additionally, King's Square's underground shelters extensive Roman ruins, uncovered in 1935. Ten years later, during renovations on the neighboring Counts Street, another archaeological discovery was made – an early Christian basilica, initially thought to be a primitive cathedral. In 1954, they also unearthed a 1st-century Roman pavement and nymphaeum (a shrine to the nymphs), providing insights into the area's historical development.

Due to its tremendous acoustic and almost enclosed structure, the square often serves as a venue for musical concerts and public events.

Tip:
The Barcelona History Museum, open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 am–7 pm and on Sunday from 10 am–8 pm, offers a fascinating glimpse into Roman and early Christian Barcelona. Visitors can explore ancient Roman ruins on a tour beginning underground and concluding in a lively square, perfect for relaxing with a drink.