Plaza Porticada / Plaza Pedro Velarde
A grand neoclassical square in Santander, rebuilt after a fire, featuring the monument to Pedro Velarde and surrounded by elegant architecture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
Plaza Porticada / Plaza Pedro Velarde
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A grand neoclassical square in Santander, rebuilt after a fire, featuring the monument to Pedro Velarde and surrounded by elegant architecture.
"A beautiful, central plaza that's a testament to Santander's resilience and a great starting point for exploration."
📸 Capture the Architecture
The neoclassical buildings offer stunning photo opportunities, especially during the golden hour.
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby
Plaza Porticada is a great starting point to visit Jardines de Pereda and the Cathedral.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Monumento a Pedro Velarde
Center of Plaza Pedro Velarde
Admire the imposing statue honoring the Cantabrian military hero, a focal point of the square.
Neoclassical Architecture
Surrounding buildings
Appreciate the elegant neoclassical design of the buildings that frame the plaza, a symbol of post-fire reconstruction.
Proximity to Key Landmarks
Adjacent to the square
Easily access the Jardines de Pereda, Correos building, and the Santander Cathedral from this convenient location.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Plaza Porticada
Understanding Plaza Porticada's History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Architecture
The neoclassical buildings offer stunning photo opportunities, especially during the golden hour.
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby
Plaza Porticada is a great starting point to visit Jardines de Pereda and the Cathedral.
📅 Check Event Schedules
The plaza hosts events like flag-raising ceremonies and concerts.
🏛️ Learn the History
Understand its reconstruction after the 1941 fire for a deeper appreciation.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Architecture
The neoclassical buildings offer stunning photo opportunities, especially during the golden hour.
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby
Plaza Porticada is a great starting point to visit Jardines de Pereda and the Cathedral.
📅 Check Event Schedules
The plaza hosts events like flag-raising ceremonies and concerts.
🏛️ Learn the History
Understand its reconstruction after the 1941 fire for a deeper appreciation.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Plaza Porticada is appreciated for its central location and elegant neoclassical architecture, serving as a key point of reference in Santander. Visitors enjoy its role as a hub for events and its proximity to other attractions. Some find it can be busy during peak times or events.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Plaza Porticada, also known as Plaza Pedro Velarde, is centrally located in Santander. It's easily accessible on foot from most parts of the city center. Local buses also stop nearby, making it convenient to reach.
While direct parking in the plaza is limited, several public parking garages are available within a short walking distance. Consider parking at the 'Centro' or 'Ayuntamiento' garages.
Yes, the ferry terminal is relatively close to Plaza Porticada. A pleasant walk of about 15-20 minutes will take you directly to the square.
Absolutely! Numerous bus lines serving Santander stop within a few minutes' walk of Plaza Porticada, making it very accessible for visitors.
Many visitors find it best to approach from the Jardines de Pereda, offering a scenic introduction to the plaza and its surroundings.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Plaza Porticada is a public square and is free to enter and explore at any time.
There are no entrance fees for Plaza Pedro Velarde. It's an open public space for everyone to enjoy.
Plaza Porticada is always open, as it's a public square. You can visit day or night.
Yes, you can visit during special events, though access might be temporarily restricted or altered due to the event setup. Check local listings for details.
To avoid crowds, aim for early mornings or late afternoons on weekdays. Weekends and during festivals can be significantly busier.
📸 📸 Photography
The area around the Monumento a Pedro Velarde offers a great central perspective. Also, capture the surrounding neoclassical buildings and the views towards the Jardines de Pereda. 
The 'golden hour' just after sunrise or before sunset provides beautiful lighting for photography. Midday can be harsh, but still offers good opportunities.
Generally, there are no restrictions on personal photography in the public square. However, commercial or professional shoots might require permits.
A wide-angle lens is excellent for capturing the expanse of the plaza and its architecture. A standard zoom lens is versatile for details and surrounding views.
Drone usage is typically regulated in urban areas. It's advisable to check local regulations and obtain necessary permissions before flying a drone.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Admire the Monumento a Pedro Velarde, appreciate the neoclassical architecture, and enjoy the central location. It's a great spot for people-watching and as a starting point for exploring Santander.
Yes, especially during quieter times. You can find benches to sit and enjoy the atmosphere, or use it as a peaceful starting point for walks.
While not always prominently displayed, the plaza's history as a reconstruction after the 1941 fire is a key aspect. Information boards might be present, or you can learn more from local guides.
The plaza hosts various events, including civic ceremonies like the Dos de Mayo commemoration, and musical performances during festivals.
Absolutely. Its spacious layout and central location make it ideal for a leisurely stroll, connecting you to other key areas of Santander.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Walkers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Reconstruction of Plaza Porticada
The plaza's design is characterized by its grand scale and elegant lines, intended to create a spacious and dignified public area. The surrounding buildings, with their uniform facades and classical proportions, contribute to the harmonious aesthetic of the square. This architectural approach not only honored the memory of the past but also laid the foundation for a modern, functional city.
Visiting Plaza Porticada offers a chance to connect with Santander's history of overcoming adversity. It's a place where the city's past and present converge, showcasing its ability to rebuild and thrive. The plaza serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving heritage while embracing progress.
The Monument to Pedro Velarde
The monument itself is a striking piece of public art, often depicted in photographs of the plaza. It stands as a focal point, drawing the eye and providing a sense of historical gravitas to the urban space. The presence of the monument underscores the plaza's dual identity as both a civic gathering place and a site of historical commemoration.
+1During commemorative events, such as the Dos de Mayo celebrations, the monument becomes the center of ceremonies involving flag-raising and floral tributes, highlighting its importance in local patriotic traditions. This reinforces its role not just as a statue, but as an active symbol of regional pride and historical memory.
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