The space designed by AHAUS arquitectos is arranged by coloured stripes on the pavement that divide the square into different spaces and give it the capacity to encompass different uses. At the same time, the project restores importance to the main entrance or "Puerta del Sol" and connects it with the square and with Tras Iglesia street.
The granite pavement contrasts with the strips of vegetation that dot the square, which together with the sound of the water from the fountains placed in the square generates a pleasant atmosphere for relaxation. On the other hand, the podium of the Puerta del Sol widens its staircase while preserving the original steps, seeking to frame its importance.
Renovation of the Moguer church square by AHAUS arquitectos. Photograph by Pablo Diaz-Fierros.
Project description by AHAUS arquitectos
The renovation of Moguer's church square completes a series of regeneration efforts for the historic center, declared a Historical and Heritage Site as part of the Columbian Places. The new square has restored the open and integrative character of its origins. With the church as the focal point and main element, the intervention aims to draw attention to the temple, creating shaded areas and spaces for gathering, with the gentle murmur of fountains in the background.
3 squares in 1
The intervention emphasizes restoring the prominence of the main entrance or “Puerta del Sol” and connecting it to the square and Tras Iglesia Street, the prelude to the “Patio de los Naranjos.” The space is designed to accommodate diverse uses, such as religious ceremonies and events. A continuous granite pavement, interrupted by colored bands originating from the church's baroque pilasters, has been designed. The podium at Puerta del Sol has been revamped, with an expanded staircase while preserving the original steps. Fine brass lines on the ground outline the footprint of the ancient temple, whose archaeological remains were uncovered during the works.
Durable and resilient granite is softened by grass strips and the trees scattered across the square, all of which were preserved from the previous square. Additional trees were planted to provide more shade to the spaces. Water also features prominently in the two fountains flanking the church's side entrance. Moguer's heritage elements are interwoven, such as the “Idyll of April” sculpture inspired by a passage from “Platero y yo,” and the modernist cast-iron benches linked to the city of Moguer.
The tower of the Nuestra Señora de la Granada church is the only remaining element of the church that once stood on the same site. The construction works on the square have uncovered part of the foundations of the 14th-century Mudéjar temple, enabling archaeologists to confirm the layout of the original church, which was oriented differently from the current one and aligned with the tower—smaller and lower during its Mudéjar phase.
Its significance lies in allowing us to trace the perimeter walls of the temple and estimate its scale. The elevation and the impossibility of ensuring its preservation led to its proper protection and subsequent covering. However, the discovered footprint has been transferred to the square through a brass strip embedded in the pavement.
