Plaza Grande

This square, called Plaza Grande (formerly “Plaza de la Constitución”) is dated between the 17th and 19th centuries, although the first treatment as a square dates from the end of the 17th century, coinciding with the expansion reforms of the temple. It is at the end of the 19th century, with the execution of the tree-lined promenade, when it acquires its current physiognomy and character. Today, the weekly municipal market is still held there, as well as many of the cultural and leisure events that take place in the city. It is considered by the locals the main meeting point in the Old Town, and it is common, especially in the afternoons, to find it full of families enjoying the surroundings.

It was built on a plot that was ceded to the people of Guía Mr. Pedro Ratón, owner of the house that occupies the west façade of the square itself. This house is sometimes known as the "house of mice", in reference to the last name of the first owners.

In 1872, a municipal ordinance was approved allowing the use of this square as a market, a fact which makes it one of the oldest markets held on the island. At the time, and for many years, this was a fairly popular market, since it was in Guía where the commercial life of the northern region was concentrated. Here the cheese from the midlands of the northwest area became famous, hence the name "Guía cheese" for the Flower, Half Flower and rennet cheeses made with sheep's and cow's milk by local cheesemakers.