Plaza de España: A Glimpse into Guam's Past
Explore Guam's colonial history at Plaza de España in Hagåtña, where Spanish heritage meets Chamorro culture.
Plaza de España, situated in central Hagåtña, Guam, marks the site of the Governor's Palace during the island's Spanish occupation. From 1734 until World War II, this plaza was the center of Guam's political and social life. The Casa Gobierno, or Governor's Palace, was first constructed in 1736 and occupied by Spanish Governor Francisco Cardenas Pacheco. Over the years, the Plaza transformed, initially named Plaza de Magalahes before becoming Plaza de España. Following the Spanish-American War in 1898, the Plaza served as the American administration's headquarters and the Naval Governor's residence. The Americans expanded the plaza, adding a baseball field and badminton court. Today, the Kiosko (bandstand) stands where the baseball field once was. On December 10, 1941, Guam's Governor surrendered the island to the Japanese at the Plaza. The Plaza suffered extensive damage during the bombardment of Agana in July 1944, prior to Guam's liberation. Restoration efforts were completed in 1980. Surviving or restored structures include the Azotea, Chocolate House, Tool Shed, Siesta Shed, and Spanish Walls. The Governor's Palace was destroyed in 1944, but portions of the foundation are still visible. Today, Plaza de España hosts numerous social and civic functions, including the inauguration of Guam's Governor.
Local tips
- Visit in the morning for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Dulce Nombre de Maria Cathedral-Basilica and Latte Stone Park to see more of Guam's history.
- Check for local events or cultural activities happening at the Plaza during your visit.
A brief summary to Plaza de España
- FQF2+HM3, Hagåtña, GU
Getting There
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Walking
Plaza de España is located in central Hagåtña, easily accessible from nearby attractions like the Dulce Nombre de Maria Cathedral-Basilica and the Guam Museum. From the Cathedral, walk southwest along Archbishop Flores Street; the Plaza will be on your left. No costs are associated with walking.
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Public Transport
The Guam Regional Transit Authority (GRTA) operates bus routes that serve Hagåtña. Check the GRTA website or bus stops for the most up-to-date schedules and routes. From the Hagatna Pool Terminal, walk north towards the Plaza. Bus fares typically range from $2 to $5.
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Taxi
Taxis are available throughout Hagåtña. A taxi ride from the Guam Airport (GUM) to Hagåtña is approximately $40-$50 and takes about 8 minutes. From major hotels in Tumon, expect to pay a similar fare. The standard flag rate is $2.40, $4.00 for the first mile, and $0.80 every ¼ mile thereafter.
