Parque de María Pita

Plaza de María Pita is the main square of A Coruña, in the centre of the city between the old town and the harbour. It is a large rectangle of more than ten thousand square metres, laid out in the nineteenth century, with the Palacio Municipal, the City Hall, at one end and arcaded buildings on the other three sides. The City Hall was built in the early twentieth century in an eclectic style with three towers and a decorated front, and it anchors the space. The long fronts opposite show the glazed galleries that are typical of Galician coastal towns and the reason A Coruña is nicknamed the glass city.

The square takes its name from María Pita, a local woman who became a heroine of the city's history. In 1589 an English fleet commanded by Francis Drake attacked A Coruña, and María Pita is remembered for her part in the defence, when she is said to have fought and killed an enemy standard-bearer, encouraging the defenders to hold the walls. The English withdrew, and the episode became part of the identity of the city. A monument to her stands in the square, and her name is given to the place and to many things in town.

Today the plaza is a social meeting place. The ground floors of the arcades are filled with cafés, bars and restaurants, with terraces that spread into the open space in warm weather. It is a good place to try Galician seafood, such as octopus and clams, or simply to sit with a coffee and watch the city pass. Events and markets take place here during the year, and in summer the square becomes the centre of the main festivities. The paving and the open layout make it comfortable for walking, and children use the wide space for play.

The surrounding streets contain much of the interest of the city. A short walk leads to the old town and the Iglesia de San Francisco, while the Paseo Marítimo follows the coast toward the Tower of Hercules, the Roman lighthouse that UNESCO has recognised as a World Heritage site. The Mercado Central is another useful stop for local food.

The square is free and open at any hour, so it fits any itinerary. It suits visitors who want an easy introduction to A Coruña's character and a base for exploring on foot.