Put the Plaza de España on your list of must-visit places during your exploration of Vejer de la Frontera. This beautiful main square is surrounded by whitewashed buildings, sprinkled with palm trees and home to cafés and restaurants.
The plaza's origins lie in the 16th century. During the 16th and 17th centuries it hosted bullfight celebrations. Today, it is a tranquil space popular with locals and visitors. Sit on a bench under the shade of a palm tree and contemplate the plaza’s beauty.
Walk to the center for a closer look at the ornamental fountain that is decorated with Triana tiles from Seville and features four frogs spouting water into the air. In the past, goldfish used to swim in the water feature, which is why the square's nickname is the Plaza de los Pescaitos, the Plaza of the Little Fishes. At night the fountain’s lights make it an even more delightful spectacle.
Go over to the Casa del Califa, a hotel housed in a building that dates back to 1527, and study the 17th-century main façade. Sample local tapas dishes day or night in one of the square's restaurants. Try fried fish, black rice, snails and spicy sausages.
As you are leaving the square, check out some of the nearby sites including the Arco de las Monjas, or the Arch of the Nuns. From the end of this street, there is a gorgeous view of the lower part of Vejer de la Frontera and its whitewashed homes. Next to the arch is the 16th-century Convent of the Concpetionists which houses the Museum of Traditions and Customs of Vejer. On display are traditional costumes and tools and other artifacts related to 19th-century life in the town.
To get to the Plaza España walk up to the Old Town or drive and park for a fee in the garages outside its walls.
