Plaza de las Cortes (Cortes Square), Madrid

Plaza de las Cortes is a prominent square surrounded by neoclassical buildings that showcase some of Madrid's finest architecture. Every corner reveals a structure with intricate details to appreciate. On the northern side stands the Parliament Palace ("Palacio de las Cortes"), a 19th-century building where the lower house of the Spanish parliament convenes. Its entrance is guarded by two bronze lions, crafted from a cannon melted down during the African War of 1859–60. Another notable landmark is the Westin Palace, which opened in 1912 as the largest and most modern hotel in Europe, with over 400 rooms, telephones, and en suite toilets.

At the center of the triangular-shaped square stands a grand statue honoring the renowned Spanish writer, Miguel de Cervantes. Erected in 1835, it was the first secular statue in Madrid that wasn't dedicated to royalty at the time. In 2009, a time capsule was discovered within its pedestal, containing a well-preserved 1819 printing of "Don Quixote" and other publications and artifacts. These items are now held at the Regional Archaeological Museum ("Museo Arqueológico Regional") in Alcalá de Henares, near Cervantes' birthplace in 1547.

Although many details of Cervantes' early life are debated, it is known that he and his family resided in Cordoba for several years before returning to Madrid. He worked for a cardinal in Rome before joining the Spanish military, where he was severely wounded in the Battle of Lepanto in 1571. Despite his injuries, he survived and received recognition for his bravery. In 1575, Cervantes and his brother Rodrigo were captured by the Ottomans while aboard the galley Sol. They were held captive in Algiers, with only Rodrigo being released after their family paid a ransom. Cervantes remained in captivity until his freedom was finally secured in 1580.

Following his release, Cervantes held various government positions, including an intelligence agent in Africa and a tax collector in Seville. It was during this period that he completed some of his most famous works, including "La Galatea" in 1585. He later returned to Madrid, where he spent the rest of his life. In 1605, he published the first volume of "Don Quixote", followed by the second volume ten years later, cementing his status as one of the most renowned figures in Spanish literature.