Plaza de España: A Historical Landmark in Hagåtña

Plaza de España, located in the heart of Hagåtña, Guam, is a historic site that served as the location of the Governor's Palace during Guam's long period of Spanish occupation. The plaza was the center of government and society for over two centuries, witnessing Spanish, American, and Japanese administrations.Originally named Plaza de Magalahes, it was later renamed Plaza de España. The main building, Casa Gobierno, was constructed in 1736 and occupied by Spanish Governor Francisco Cardenas Pacheco. The complex was the stage for government and civic activities. The Plaza's appearance evolved, with Governor Don Enrique Solano replacing the original palace with a larger building in 1885. After the Spanish-American War in 1898, the Plaza became the headquarters for the American administration and the residence of the Naval Governor. The Americans expanded the plaza, adding a baseball field and badminton court.During World War II, the Plaza suffered extensive damage during the bombardment of Hagåtña in 1944. Today, only a few structures remain, including the three-arch gate to Almacen (Arsenal), the Azotea (back porch), and the Chocolate House. The Azotea, an open-air terrace porch, had a clay tile roof added after the war. The Chocolate House was where the governors entertained guests. The Plaza de España was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. Today, the Plaza de España continues to host social and civic functions, including the inauguration of Guam's Governor.