Did you ever learn the story of the brave Don Quixote and his loyal servant Sancho Penza from the book – The Ingenious Nobleman Sir Quixote of La Mancha at school? This novel, as written by Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra, was one of Daria’s favourites – so we just had to visit the Plaza de España in Madrid. This is where the Statue of Cervantes overlooks two bronze sculptures of the heroes from his book.
Perfect for shooting photos
This monument was built in the middle of Plaza de España, in the centre of Madrid on one side of the Gran Via. During the day and in the early evening, this area was crowded with tourists. In the late evening though, more locals would be passing by, so the square would be considerably quiet – perfect for shooting photos and viewing the Statue of Cervantes at a closer distance.
The Ingenious Nobleman Sir Quixote of La Mancha was published in two parts during the “Golden Spanish Age” in 1605 and 1615. The plot is about the adventures of Noble Alonso Quixote, who after reading too many chivalric romances, decided to adopt the name Don Quixote to travel the world, fight evil and bring about justice. His companion; a farmer by the name Sancho Penza, unfortunately, bore a disposition that was in complete contrast to the romantic nature of Don Quixote and this moved readers to laughter.
In the imaginary world of Don Quixote, there were two women present – the peasant Aldonza Lorenzo and a romantic character created from the main hero’s imagination, Dulcinea del Toboso. Interestingly, both characters from the book are depicted as sculptures on the wings of the Statue of Cervantes monument.
This monument of Spanish Literature creates a lasting impression that whether you are familiar with the book, the Statue of Cervantes or not – it is still surrounded by many Art Nevus Buildings around the Plaza de España which look majestic, particularly during the night.
