Plaza de la Constitución (Constitution Square), Malaga

This is the beating heart of Malaga. The square in a sense has always been there. It was there at the time of the Reconquest, when it was called the Four Streets Square. Before 1812 it was named "Main Town Square." The city hall was once here along with the Mayor's home, the jail and the Covent de los Augustins.

In 2002 the Square and Larios Street were changed into pedestrian areas. Each year in August the Square becomes the site of the Feast of Malaga. The fair celebrates the victory of the Catholic Monarchs, Ferdinand and Isabella in 1487 by the procession of the statue of the Virgin of Victory.

The statue is a gift of Isabella to the city. It is paraded from the Cathedral to the Church of Saint James Apostle. The procession simulates the entry of the Monarchs and their army. This is accompanied by shows of plants and flowers, regattas, concerts and (wait for it) bullfights. Holy Week and New Year are also celebrated in the Square.

Off to the side in the square is the Fountain of Genova. It is also known as the fountain of Charles V. It was brought to Malaga in the 1600s. Is it Genoese? It is certainly Italian. The mayor of the city paid nearly 1,000 ducats for it. What is that in today's money? One 1492 ducat (gold) is worth $1,000. Do the math.

Why You Should Visit:
Oozing character and history no matter from which direction it's viewed – a truly classic square.