Designed by: @bovestudio_

Captured by: @javierbravofotografia

Plaza del Zarrón redefines the relationship between Almazán’s historic centre and its newer neighbourhoods by transforming a five-metre change in level into a continuous public space. Designed to follow the natural movement of the town’s residents, the project replaces a long-standing physical barrier with an accessible connection that links the old town walls to the surrounding urban fabric. A series of folded surfaces and gently sloping paths create multiple routes through the square while accommodating a wide range of everyday activities.

The change in elevation is distributed across a sequence of inclined platforms and zigzagging paths that ensure universal accessibility. Along the main route, flatter areas form a series of smaller plazas where visitors can stop, gather or rest. These spaces incorporate seating, trees and the relocated Zarrón sculpture, while steps and informal seating areas encourage social interaction. The geometry of the square was carefully developed to optimise construction while maintaining smooth transitions throughout the site.

The relocation of the Zarrón sculpture establishes a new relationship between Plaza del Zarrón, the Plaza Mayor and the town’s annual celebration of San Pascual Bailón. Traditionally displayed in the Plaza Mayor during the festival, the sculpture now occupies a central position within the new square, connecting one of Almazán’s best-known traditions with a contemporary public space. The new setting allows the square to accommodate everyday life alongside civic events and celebrations.

The project combines contemporary construction with materials that reference the character of Almazán’s historic centre, including aged concrete paving, timber and metal latticework inspired by the town’s traditional ironwork and carpentry. Native deciduous trees provide seasonal shade, while benches, lighting and other urban elements are integrated into the paving and folded edges of the square. Lighting concealed within the vertical faces of the folds highlights the geometry of the space after dark, reinforcing circulation routes and extending the square’s use into the evening.