Diana´s Temple Public Realm
Spain CCC ES
José María Sánchez García
2011
Type
Public Space
Tags
public spaces, heritage sites interventions, dealing with history, Spain ccc
Visitability
Allowed
Description
The Temple of Diana served as the epicentre of Mérida’s Roman Forum and was the centre of public life in the city during Roman times. Sánchez García’s initiative aims not only to reveal the importance of this cultural heritage, but also to lay the foundations for a modern civil dialogue forum. The project proposes the creation of a new boundary around the temple, away from the disparate residential structures that once surrounded it. With a contemporary language, the temple is now surrounded by a new enclosure with a terrace, allowing visitors to experience the monument from the same level. The vibrant atmosphere of the new square is achieved by alternating courtyards, which bring natural light to the lower levels, and volumes designed for a variety of uses. The new enclosure, built in white concrete, draws inspiration from the classical and orderly clarity of Roman architecture, while adding a contemporary layer in keeping with today’s architectural style.