Plaza de la Candelaria (Candelaria Square), Cadiz

Candelaria Square (Plaza de la Candelaria) is a historical square located in Cadiz. It is one of the oldest squares in the city, and its trapezoidal floor plan gives it a unique shape. The outer pavement of the square is lined with elms on the outer edge, which are gradually being replaced by other species such as hackberry. In the inner part of the sidewalk, a row of bitter orange trees can be found, which fills the square with the intense scent of their orange blossoms during the spring season.

In the parterres of the square, one can find some striking specimens of tree species. These add to the beauty and uniqueness of the square, creating a natural contrast to the surrounding architecture.

The houses bordering the square were constructed mostly at the end of the 19th century, and they exhibit predominant elements of the Romantic era. Among them, house number 15, also known as Oviedo Asylum (Asilo de Oviedo), stands out for its Elizabethan style, with pilasters and corbels featuring figures of eagles attached to the facade. House number 6, constructed in 1906, is also noteworthy as it combines glass and iron architecture.

One of the most characteristic features of Candelaria Square is the bronze statue of Emilio Castelar, a Spanish politician, journalist, and historian. Castelar was a great orator and served as the last president of the First Republic. The statue, created by Eduardo Barrón in 1906, is located in the center of the square and serves as a reminder of the city's rich history.

The square was once part of the Monastery of La Candelaria, and after its demolition, it was enlarged to become the spacious square we know today. It has remained a popular destination for both tourists and locals, and it is an attractive spot for anyone visiting the city of Cadiz.