Mercado Chico square

Mercado Chico represents civic life within the walled city. Its formation is linked to the resettlement of the late eleventh century, although the orderly appearance seen today reflects much later changes. The present town hall was built between 1839 and 1845 and subsequently extended. Arcades, balconies and a regular composition express a square designed to represent municipal authority as well as accommodate movement and meeting. Look towards its different exits: narrow streets contrast with the openness of the central space. This is an easy place to rest without losing the thread of the walk. Imagine the change in scale from council meetings beside a church to a dedicated public headquarters. The square remains an everyday place rather than an isolated historical stage set.