Endearing Square
Although the real and official name of the square is "Plaza del Conde de Torremúzquiz" (Square of the Earl Torremúzquiz), this square -located in the very centre of Ezcaray- is better known as "La Plaza del Quiosco" (The Square of the Bandstand). This nickname is obvious, because there is a very odd bandstand, set on a stone foundation, in the middle of the square. It gives the place a charismatic and endearing touch. The Ezcaray Municipal Orchestra often plays there during the town festivals, which takes place on August 10th, festivity of St Lorenzo, patron saint of Ezcaray.
Apart from that, the square has a really irregular shape, because although it starts as a square, it becomes rectangular and ends up taking the shape of a bottle: a wine bottle, of course, this is why we are in La Rioja. ;-)
Without a doubt, this square is one of the nerve centers of the distinguished town of Ezcaray, and many people get together around it, crowding the streets in periods like Holy Week and Summer. Also, there are many bars and cafés, which means that before lunch-time, coffee-time and the evening aperitif, this area is crowded and joyful.
But, apart from this peculiar bandstand, the square is characterized by the houses and blazoned facades. These are typical mountain houses, most of them of bright colours and with dark wood in their windows and facades, which gives Ezcaray a mountainous touch, something people like very much. Moreover, there are arcades under which bars and cafés are now located. Some of the facades show very old and beautiful shields.
As I said before, a unique square the visitor will love, not only for its mountain romanticism but also for its good wines and excellent "pintxos" ( snacks also known as "tapas") that liven up the bars area.
