Metropol Parasol: The World’s Largest Wooden Structure Opens in Seville

The <a href="http://inhabitat.com/gigantic-parasols-rise-to-shield-seville-from-sun/" target="_blank">Metropol Parasol</a> in Seville, Spain, by Jurgen Mayer H. Architects, is the world's largest wooden structure. We've been following this amazing <a href="http://inhabitat.com/gigantic-parasols-rise-to-shield-seville-from-sun/" target="_blank">design </a> since its planning phase, and now the fantastic project is finally complete! Located at Plaza de la Encarnacion, the beautiful series of undulating parasols comprise the world's largest wooden structure. Metropol’s interlocking honeycomb of wooden panels rise from concrete bases, which are positioned to form canopies and walkways below the parasols.

Metropol Parasol's neutral tone helps to harmonize the <a href="http://inhabitat.com/vertical-bamboo-towers-are-high-tech-and-primitive-at-the-same-time/" target="_blank">stark contrast</a> of the ultra- modern structure with the medieval surroundings of Seville.

Stairways and storefronts sit below the wooden parasols, which form the largest <a href="http://inhabitat.com/the-nest-a-wild-wood-tree-house-that-sways-23-ft-off-the-ground/" target="_blank">wooden structure</a> in the world.

The innovative structure is made from bonded timber with a polyurethane coating.

<a href="http://www.fernandoalda.com" target="_blank">©Fernando Alda</a><p> The actual site was originally slated to become a parking garage, but after excavations revealed archeological findings, the city of Seville decided to make the site a museum and community center.

Metropol Parasol now houses said museum, a farmers market, an elevated plaza, and a restaurant, most of which are open-air.

Seville is a city with rich history and a unique medieval inner city. Metropol Parasol defines Seville’s iconic cultural role, meshing a historic archeological destination with a sleek contemporary landmark.