In the heart of Andalusia, in a city where the air is infused with the scent of orange trees and echoes of ancient legends, there exists a place that challenges conventional notions of travel. Here, deep beneath bustling streets, a modern transport hub has become the guardian of centuries-old history. This is the underground pavilion ‘Alcázar Genil,’ where an ordinary descent into the metro turns into a real discovery, erasing the boundaries between eras.
An Unexpected Discovery Underground
The story of this remarkable combination began in a mundane way—with the construction of a new metro line. During excavation work, the buckets of excavators struck an obstacle that turned out to be more than just a stone; it was a fragment of a massive masonry wall. Experts who arrived at the site confirmed: before the builders stood the side walls of a huge water reservoir, an ‘albercón.’ This 13th-century structure was part of a country palace complex belonging to the Almohad dynasty. The discovery confronted city officials with a difficult choice: sacrifice an invaluable monument for the sake of progress, or radically alter an expensive plan for the route. The decision to preserve history ultimately determined the fate of the entire project.
A Fusion of Eras: A Brilliant Solution
The realization of this ambitious project was entrusted to architect Antonio Jiménez Torrecillas. His concept impressed with its boldness and elegance. Instead of dismantling or relocating the ancient walls, it was decided to leave them in their original position. The engineering team developed a unique method that allowed a train tunnel to pass directly beneath the historic basin without compromising its integrity. This operation required utmost precision and innovative approaches to stabilizing the old structures, but the final result exceeded even the most optimistic expectations.
Architecture of Light and Concrete
Today’s “Alcázar Genil” lobby is a spacious, airy, and light-filled space. The architect deliberately chose a restrained palette of materials: structural concrete, granite, glass, and stainless steel. These do not compete with the ancient ruins but instead create a modern, minimalist frame that accentuates the stone’s texture and age. Lighting plays a key role in the perception of the space. Natural light enters through ceiling openings, while strategically placed fixtures softly illuminate the archaeological elements. As passengers descend by escalator, they embark on a kind of journey through time, observing layers of civilizations. A specially organized route with informational plaques turns waiting for transport into a fascinating mini-tour.
More Than a Stop: A Cultural Symbol
This underground hub quickly outgrew its utilitarian purpose. Its unique appearance and philosophy became the foundation of the entire city’s transport network branding. The site has become an important stop on the popular tourist route connecting historical districts. In addition, its space houses a small hall for exhibitions and cultural events, visually linked to the excavation area. This place stands as living proof that the past can not only coexist with the present, but also blend organically into it, creating new cultural codes and impressions. The professional community took notice of the project. It received the prestigious FAD award in 2017 and high praise at the Spanish Biennial of Architecture and Urbanism in 2018. Experts especially highlighted the skill with which the fragile heritage was integrated into a dynamic public environment. Located next to the palace of the same name and other landmarks, this transport node is a must-visit not only for travelers but for anyone interested in bold architectural solutions and tangible history.
