Now a relaxing oasis surrounded by cafés, restaurants and flower sellers, this popular Granada plaza once was the site of Inquisition trials and bullfights.
Plaza Bib-Rambla is one of Granada’s most attractive plazas. Surrounded by 19th-century town houses and lined with bars, cafés and shops, the atmosphere here hasn’t always been as serene and laughter-filled as it is today. This popular square was once the site of jousting competitions, bullfights, book burnings and Spanish Inquisition trials and burnings.
Appreciate Plaza Bib-Rambla’s beauty from one of its sidewalk cafés over some hot chocolate and churros. Dipping sugar-coated strips of deep fried dough into cups of melted chocolate is a Spanish breakfast tradition. Walk around the plaza for a closer look at some of the sights. The focal point is the 17th-century fountain with four grotesque figures spurting water, topped by a sculpture of Neptune. Look out for the elaborately detailed lamppost featuring carved mythical figures and a base modelled on horses’ legs.
Plaza Bib-Rambla is also known as the “Square of Flowers” for its numerous florists. Browse the collection of stands selling flowers, potted plants, herbs and ornamental trees. Go souvenir hunting in the square’s shops and in the neighboring Arab souk, the Alcaicería. This former silk market is a warren of streets filled with stalls and shops selling Arabic handicrafts, ethnic clothing, souvenirs and specialty foods.
At night, return to Plaza Bib-Rambla for a drink and a meal. During the summer the restaurant terraces fill up quickly so you will need to make a reservation. As you dine you may occasionally be entertained by singing and dancing street performers. Shoppers are in for a treat, as many of the stores in and around the square stay open until late.
Plaza Bib-Rambla is in downtown Granada, a few minutes’ walk from the cathedral. Many of the city’s bus lines pass close to the square. Finding street parking places in the centre of Granada is difficult. The centre is not very big and some parts are restricted to private vehicles, but there is a lot in the nearby Calle de la Paz where you can park for a fee.
