The Plaza Mayor is a famous public square in Madrid, Spain. Once the centre of Old Madrid, it was originally built from 1580-1619 during the reign of Philip III. The ecliptic-shaped Plaza measures 129 m x 94 m (423 ft x 308 ft) and features 237 balconies on its three-story residential buildings surrounding the square. In the middle stands an impressive bronze statue of King Philip III on a horse, which was a gift from the Duke of Florence in 1616. For hundreds of years, the Plaza has been home to numerous events ranging from executions, to bullfights, and now to the annual Christmas market. Tourists and locals alike continue to enjoy its cultural heritage and lively atmosphere.