The square is colloquially referred to as 'Firal dels Bous' because it historically served as the designated market site for oxen.
The arcaded porticos are built with local volcanic stone, characteristic of the surrounding La Garrotxa landscape.
The village of Santa Pau was declared a Historic-Artistic Site in 1971 due to its preserved medieval layout.
The square's triangular shape is a defensive feature common in medieval urban planning to facilitate controlled access and trade.
Many houses surrounding the square retain original medieval stone lintels and architectural carvings from the 14th and 15th centuries.
Plaça Major de Santa Pau, locally known as Firal dels Bous, is a medieval square dating back to the 13th century located within the La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park. The square features a distinct triangular layout enclosed by Gothic-style arcaded porticoes and stone houses. Historically, it served as the village's primary marketplace for livestock and local produce. The architecture reflects the medieval heritage of the Barony of Santa Pau. It remains the social hub of the town, surrounded by narrow, winding cobblestone streets. The square is situated at an elevation of approximately 496 meters. It serves as the main access point to the adjacent Santa Pau Castle. The site has maintained its original structural integrity throughout the centuries.
From the center of the square looking toward the arcaded porticos and the medieval clock tower.
Walk through the narrow medieval alleys extending from the square to find hidden stone passages.
Sample the local 'fesols de Santa Pau' (small white beans) at one of the surrounding traditional restaurants.
Visit the nearby medieval castle entrance, which is directly connected to the square's perimeter.
Do not attempt to drive a vehicle into the square as the streets are extremely narrow and restricted to pedestrian traffic.
Respect the privacy of residents living in the historic houses bordering the square; avoid loud noise in residential areas.
