The Plac Trzech Krzyży (Three Crosses Square) square, located between the streets of Nowy Świat and Aleje Ujazdowskie, was built in the 18th century by King Augustus II as a part of the so-called Calvary route. At first it was called the Crossroads of Golden Crosses-because of the three gold-covered crosses built here on stone posts, which are standing to this day. Later, it was called the St. Alexander Square-after the classical St. Alexander church, built in 1818.

Nine streets meet at the square. As well as Nowy Świat and Aleje Ujazdowskie, there is Bolesława Prusa (with the Sheraton Hotel), Wiejska (leading to the Sejm), Mokotowska (to Plac Zbawiciela Square), Hoża, Żurawia, Bracka and Książęca.

The present urban arrangement of the square contains a mix of old buildings (the St. Alexander church and the historic Institute for the Deaf building), those from the socialist era (the Ministry of the Economy), and modern ones (Holland Park and the Sheraton Hotel). There are still some pre-war buildings around the square and number 3 is the oldest residential building in Warsaw-the Luciński tenement house, now called Dom Dochodowy o Trzech Frontach (the Income Building With Three Fronts), which houses luxury boutiques and a bank.

The north side of the square, along with parts of the adjoining streets, is one of the most popular entertainment centers in the city, with over a dozen popular clubs, pubs, cafes and restaurants including three cafe-bars with similar names: Szpilka, Szparka and Szpulka, as well as the famous pre-war Melodia club and restaurant.