Plaza de España: A Historical Heart of Guam

Located in the heart of Hagåtña, Guam, Plaza de España marks the site of the island's Governors Palace during the long Spanish occupation. Originally named Plaza de Magalahes, it served as the center of government and civic activities for centuries.Constructed in 1736, the Casa Gobierno, or Governor's Palace, was first occupied by colonial Spanish Governor Francisco Cardenas Pacheco. Over the years, the plaza's appearance evolved, with Governor Don Enrique Solano replacing the original palace with a larger building in 1885. Following the Spanish-American War in 1898, the Plaza became the headquarters of the American administration and the official residence of the Naval Governor. The Americans expanded the plaza to include recreational facilities.While most of the palace was destroyed during the shelling of Hagåtña in 1944 during World War II, several structures still stand, including the three-arch gate to Almacen (Arsenal), the Azotea (back porch), and the Chocolate House. The Azotea, an elevated open-air terrace, had a clay tile roof added after the war. The Chocolate House was where the governors would receive guests. Today, Plaza de España continues to host social and civic functions, highlighting its enduring significance in Guam's history.