Metropol Parasol in Seville by J. Mayer H.

Six years after the victory of J. Mayer H. in the international competition for the new design of the Seville square Plaza de la Encarnación, the first part of the 'Metropol Parasol' project was completed. The originally planned completion for 2007 was delayed due to new plans and calculations for the complex wooden shading structure hovering like a cloud over the square. The first part opened to the public is the market, which is set to become a new Seville symbol located in the heart of the historic city. Next to the market, archaeological remains of the Roman city of Hispalis were also uncovered at the site. An archaeological museum, cultural center, restaurant, and café are housed in the mushroom-like form that hovers above the square and provides ample shade. A viewing platform with a café will be built on the 'wooden cloud', which will become a sought-after attraction offering unusual views of the city, along with opportunities for hosting social events. The completion of the entire project is scheduled for next month.