Banyoles Old Town Refurbishment 2026: Travertine in Spain

The project originated with an initial sketch roughly 30 years ago, followed by the first construction phase two decades ago. The latest intervention continues the original scheme established in Spain, utilizing travertine to repave medieval streets and public squares while uncovering historic water canals and establishing a continuous pedestrian landscape across the area.

In this new phase, the material moves beyond the horizontal plane to construct benches, retaining edges, planting beds, and level changes. Large blocks of travertine are cut, fractured, and carved to expose distinct layers within the stone. Their surfaces alternate between smooth horizontal planes and rough vertical cuts, referencing local facades, water channels, and geological strata.

Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event

Surrounding the existing plane tree and cast-iron fountain in Plaça d'en Ges, the travertine forms a continuous perimeter defining a distinct urban space within the square. The former traffic island is reorganized into a pedestrian zone, with the stone functioning simultaneously as pavement, seating, landscape edging, and planting infrastructure.

MIAS Architects combines emerging stone-cutting technologies with traditional craftsmanship and on-site adaptation, allowing individual blocks to be configured according to their specific position and function. Minimal metal detailing and discreet lighting complement the stone without distracting from the historic surroundings.

Source: designboom