MUSHROOM SKYLINE

Mushroom Skyline

Breathtaking modern design and multi-layered histories intertwine at Seville's iconic Metropol Parasol.

Thought to be the largest timber structure in the world, Setas de Sevilla (the Mushrooms of Seville) intertwines an enormous latticework of plywood panels, each shaped individually to generate a uniquely fluid form. Over six years went into its construction and the outcome was almost shockingly modern against the backdrop of one of Spain’s best preserved historic cities.

How did it get here? Beneath it is la Plaza de la Encarnación, which once housed a busy food market in the 19th century. In more recent decades however, much of it fell into disuse. The neglected market buildings were demolished one by one until no real purpose was left to justify its place at the heart of the city. In the 1990s, construction even began on a car park, until Roman and Moorish ruins were discovered on site, halting the diggers completely.

Following a competition, the task of redeveloping the square fell to German architect Jürgen Mayer. The proposal he put forward was to be a shelter of sorts for a new market square, one that would also incorporate a series of elevated walkways and cafes in the canopy.

Seville remains a relatively low city, so the 26 meter height of the structure is enough to raise you right above the rooftops.

Now it’s among Seville’s best loved attractions, an impressive achievement against the nearby Alcázar palace or the impressive Plaza de España. In that, it presents an interesting case study into how modern architecture can best fit into a historical context.

There are some utilitarian elements to it, but in large part it fulfils a sculptural function, one that should be in stark contravention of the local vernacular. Interestingly though, you never actually get that impression when you’re there. In person, it actually works beautifully.