Metropol Parasol Seville Spain Travel Postcard

The Metropol Parasol, also known as Las Setas de Sevilla ("The Mushrooms of Seville"), is one of the most striking modern architectural landmarks in Seville, Spain. Designed by German architect Jürgen Mayer, this massive wooden structure was completed in 2011 and stands in La Encarnación Square, blending contemporary design with the city's historic charm. The structure, resembling a cluster of giant mushrooms, is made from birch wood panels reinforced with polyurethane and stretches 26 metres (85 feet) high. With its undulating, honeycomb-like form, the Metropol Parasol serves as a multi-functional public space, housing a market, an archaeological museum, a rooftop terrace, and a network of walkways offering stunning panoramic views of the city. Beyond its futuristic aesthetics, the Metropol Parasol has revitalised Seville’s old quarter, transforming Plaza de la Encarnación into a vibrant cultural hub. Visitors can explore the Antiquarium, an underground museum showcasing Roman and Moorish ruins discovered during construction, or take an elevator to the top for breathtaking 360-degree views of Seville’s historic skyline, including landmarks like the Giralda and Seville Cathedral. The structure has sparked both admiration and controversy, with some locals questioning its ultra-modern design in contrast to Seville’s traditional architecture. However, over time, it has become a beloved symbol of the city’s evolving identity, blending history with innovation in a truly unique way.