Plaza de Armas (Main Square), Guadalajara

Plaza de Armas (Main Square), Guadalajara

Plaza de Armas is the main square of Guadalajara. It is located directly in the city's historic center. The square offers a variety of sights, such as the Guadalajara Cathedral and the Government Palace.

Mariachi bands frequent the Main Square. Those who wish to stay for a while to take in the vibrant square can do so on one of the many public, wrought iron benches. The rows of trees provide ample shade so even the hottest days can be enjoyed. The square is also lovely at night when it is lit by the lampposts and the lights of Guadalajara Cathedral.

The square was constructed in the late 19th century and remodeled in 1910. The bandstand in the center of the square is an art nouveau, wrought iron bandstand that was gifted by Mexican president Porfirio Diaz. The stage features eight pillars with female figures that represent different musical instruments. It was built in Paris by the Val D'Osne Art Foundries (Fonderies D'art Du Val D'Osne).

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Guadalajara. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

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Plaza de Armas (Main Square) on Map

Sight Name: Plaza de Armas (Main Square)
Sight Location: Guadalajara, Mexico (See walking tours in Guadalajara)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Walking Tours in Guadalajara, Mexico

Create Your Own Walk in Guadalajara

Create Your Own Walk in Guadalajara

Creating your own self-guided walk in Guadalajara is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Guadalajara Historical Churches Walking Tour

Guadalajara Historical Churches Walking Tour

Guadalajara, Mexico, is home to a great number of wonderful religious sites, dating back to the colonial era. Many of them are unique architectural treasures, with striking façades and equally impressive interiors.

The Expiatory Church, characterized by its neo-Gothic design, is a striking landmark dedicated to expiation and reparation. Meanwhile, the Our Lady of the Pilar Church boasts...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.1 Km or 1.9 Miles
Historical Center Walk

Historical Center Walk

Guadalajara is a modern, bustling metropolis with a long history. It was founded in 1542 as part of New Spain. The town was named after Spanish conquistador Nuno de Guzman’s hometown in Spain.

The city became Mexican state Jalisco’s largest city and its capital. The town boomed during the 17th century, and it became the nation's second-largest city during the 18th century. Miguel...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.9 Km or 1.2 Miles
Squares of Guadalajara

Squares of Guadalajara

The historic center of Guadalajara is the oldest part of the city, a place where it was founded. The abundance of handsome colonial landmarks here – old buildings, public parks and squares (plazas) – makes the area truly magnificent. The plazas – popular gathering spots filled with fountains, statues, benches and food stalls – are particularly great for having a break, watching people and...  view more

Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.3 Km or 0.8 Miles