Bib Rambla Square in Granada - Historic Center of Granada

The Plaza de Bib-Rambla (Bib Rambla Square) is situated in the historic center of Granada, serving as a pathway to prominent sites such as the Cathedral, the Alcaicería or the Zacatín.

Over the centuries, this square has undergone many renovations, but it has always been surrounded by the most important landmarks of the city.

During the Nasrid era, this square served as the prime commercial area, situated in close proximity to the Main Mosque.

Merchants would traverse this area en route to Alcaicería, the old alhóndiga. Students also passed through here on their way to the Madrasa, Granada's first university.

Fountain of the Giants or Gigantones

In the center of Plaza Bib-Rambla we see the Fountain of the Giants or Gigantones from the 17th century.

This fountain was initially located in the Convent of San Agustín but was moved to the Paseo del Salón, and latter removed, in 1840, during the Disentailment. After undergoing several changes of location, it was eventually brought here in 1950.

The Fuente de los Gigantones is one of the most interesting fountains in Granada. Made of gray stone from the Sierra Elvira, it is formed by a base and two superimposed circular basins, crowned by the spectacular figure of Neptune with a trident in hand.

The fountain is named after the four humanoid figures, called gigantones, that appear at the base and hold the first basin with their heads, which they support with one of their hands while water flows out of their mouths.

Where does the Bib al-Ramla Square's name come from?

The Bib al-Ramla Square owes its name to the Bib al-Ramla Gate or Arenal Gate that was once here and served as one of the main entrances in the wall surrounding the city.

It received its name because of its proximity to the banks (rambra in Spanish) of the Darro River, which flowed nearby on its route to the Genil bridge.

From the sixteenth century onward, it began to be called the 'Puerta de las Orejas y de las Manos' (Door of the Ears and Hands) due to the practice of hanging the limbs of executed thieves and criminals on it.

With the remodeling of the square in the Christian era, this door was dismantled and rebuilt in the the Alhambra Forest, where it can be seen today.

A Little Bit of History

The Plaza de Bib-Rambla or Bibarrambla was a place of celebrations even in Arab times.

After the Conquest, the Inquisition's autos de fe took place here, involving unfortunate events such as the burning of Arabic manuscripts and books. Almost the entire library of the la Madrasa disappeared in a bonfire for being considered heretical books.

It could be said that this is the most transformed area of the city, adapting to the needs of each era until reaching the present day.

At the end of the 19th century, the only remaining historic building in the square was the Archbishop's Palace, which underwent further modifications in the subsequent years.

Festivals and Markets

Today, the square retains its festive atmosphere, especially during the celebrations of the Day of the Cross and Corpus Christi. Its commercial character persists, thanks to the numerous stores and restaurants in the vicinity.

Historically, this square was also known as Plaza de la Flores (Flowers) due to the numerous flower-selling kiosks that used to be here. However, nowadays, most of the businesses in the area are oriented towards tourists.

During the Christmas season, it hosts the traditional nativity scene market.

How to Get There

Plaza Bib-Rambla is located right in the center of Granada; you can walk there or take city buses, lines 4, 8, 11, 21, 33 (Gran Vía / Catedral stop).

Important places to visit near Plaza Bib Rambla

: An old Arab market that still stands today, offering a fascinating labyrinth of shops where you can buy crafts, ceramics, and other souvenirs from your trip to Granada.

: Imposing and majestic, this jewel of the Spanish Renaissance is a landmark of Granada's history and landscape.

: The final resting place of the Catholic Monarchs, this royal pantheon is located in the heart of Granada.

: A former Nasrid grain exchange, notable for the distinctive horseshoe arch at its entrance.

: Founded by Yusuf I in 1349 as the first Andalusian university in Europe, it later became the first town hall in Catholic Granada.

: A contemporary art museum dedicated to one of Granada's most famous painters.

: Close to the cathedral and the historic center, yet a little quieter, with charming terraces and shops.

: This is the symbolic center of Granada, always bustling with people. The city's most important streets begin here.

Where to Eat near Bib Rambla Square?

There are many restaurants very close to Bib Rambla Square. Here are the best options for where to eat in this area:

La Telefónica Restaurant

La Telefonica is a romantic and comfortable place with a very cozy and carefully decorated interior, creating a relaxed atmosphere.

It's right next to Bib Rambla Square, and it has a quiet terrace on a pedestrian street. The dining room on the first floor is spacious with some good views.

The waiters are attentive and friendly. The food is well-prepared; you should try the salmon tartare, breaded artichokes, pig's trotters, and stew croquettes.

Nonna Carmela 50

Located in Bib Rambla Square, this restaurant offers authentic Italian food.

It is a very nice place that has a large heated terrace with charm in the pedestrian area. You can also eat inside.

It is 100% gluten-free, making it an ideal place for people who are lactose intolerant, celiac, and vegan – something difficult to find in other restaurants in Granada.

The food is of very good quality, whether with or without gluten. They offer reasonable prices, generous dishes, and excellent customer service.

The pizzas are delicious with a wide variety of flavors. It is also advisable to try the lasagna, the croquettes, the eggplant antipasto, and the pistachio cake.

Other places to eat near Bib Rambla Square

Here are some other notable restaurants and bars that you might want to consider:

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