The cobbled Plaza de Josa: historic heart of Monroyo

The Plaza de los Josa in Monroyo is a relatively modern space occupying the site of the Josa house, one of the largest in the village. The building was left in ruins during the fire of the War of the Spanish Succession, in which 147 buildings burned down; the family donated it to the municipality and at the end of the 19th century it was demolished and the square that bears its name was built.

This square stands out for several important features. First, the Barbacana, a wall that separates the square from Calle Gigantes and protects pedestrians from a significant change in level. Descending a stairway perpendicular to the Barbacana, we reach Calle Empedrada, named after its traditional cobbled pavement.

The square also houses several manor houses, such as the Casa de Raimundo or Casa de les Xiques, which date from the 16th century. According to oral tradition, this last house may have been the residence of the commander of the Order of Calatrava in the town.