Metropol Parasol Seville

Metropol Parasol, Seville, Spain

Seville is known as a city of historical architecture with such famous buildings as Seville Cathedral, La Giralda, and the Real Alcazar drawing in crowds of tourists each day.

Metropol Parasol

The city of Seville also has its share of striking, modern buildings none more so than the Metropol Parasol aka Las Setas de la Encarnación, which claims to be the largest wooden structure in the world.

Designed by German architect, Jürgen Mayer-Hermann and engineered by Arup the structure was completed in 2011 after 6 years in construction. The project went way over the proposed budget.

Architecture

Built in wood, granite, and concrete, the architect was inspired by the vaults of Seville Cathedral and wished to create a "cathedral without walls."

Metropol Parasol

A market has stood on this spot at La Encarnación Square for centuries and the modern building's ground level serves as such today. There is an underground level with a museum displaying Roman and Moorish antiquities unearthed during the construction phase. The upper levels are viewing platforms with great vistas over the city.

Metropol Parasol

Access - Getting There

The Metropol Parasol is within easy walking distance of many of Seville's main sites including Seville Cathedral, La Giralda, and the Real Alcazar. Also, close by are the historic El Rinconcillo tapas bar and the recommended Hotel Baco.