The structure is held together by approximately 3,400 joints and 3,000 cubic meters of wood.
The archaeological remains in the basement date back to the 1st century AD.
The design was inspired by the vaults of the Seville Cathedral and the Ficus trees in the nearby Plaza de Cristo de Burgos.
The entire timber frame is treated with a specialized waterproof, fire-resistant coating.
The structure was designed to revitalize a neglected plaza that had previously served as a parking lot.
Setas de Sevilla, officially named Metropol Parasol, is the world's largest wooden structure, designed by architect Jürgen Mayer. Located in the Plaza de la Encarnación, the structure covers 150 by 70 meters and reaches a height of 26 meters. The design consists of six parasol-like units made of bonded Finnish birch plywood coated in polyurethane. An elevated walkway winds along the roof, providing 360-degree views of the historic center of Seville. The basement houses the Antiquarium, an archaeological site displaying Roman and Moorish ruins discovered during the building's foundation excavation. The structure serves as an urban canopy, providing shade to the public square below. It integrates a central market, a concert space, and multiple restaurant areas. The project was completed in 2011 after a decade-long development process.
The highest point of the elevated wooden walkway looking toward the Giralda tower.
Walk the full length of the serpentine rooftop path to experience changing perspectives of the city skyline.
Visit the Antiquarium in the basement first to understand the historical context of the site before ascending the structure.
Carry sunglasses and sun protection, as the upper walkway is fully exposed to the sun with minimal natural shade.
Do not attempt to walk on the curved surfaces of the parasols; stick strictly to the designated wooden boardwalks.
