Issue date: 31 Mar, 2021

Urban architecture. Centro Botín

CONSULT RATES

Urban architecture. Centro Botín

History

URBAN ARCHITECTURE. CENTRO BOTÍN

In 2014, in a prime position in the city of Santander with the best views of the bay, the Centro Botín was built, designed by the architect Renzo Piano in partnership with Luis Vidal + Arquitectos.

Perhaps the most striking aspect of the building is the natural light and the lightness of the materials, essential elements of the architect’s conception of the project.

It stands over the sea, without contact with the ground, supported on a series of tall pillars and columns, reflecting the height of the trees in the historic Pereda Gardens, harmonising with the city centre and the bay itself.

As well as a symbol of modernity, the Centro Botín is an important cultural hub.

The multifunctional space houses exhibitions, educational workshops, and an auditorium, among other services for citizens and visitors.

The body behind the building, the Marcelino Botín Foundation, was created by husband and wife Marcelino Botín Sanz and Carmen Yllera in 1964 to promote the social development of Cantabria.

At present, while retaining that original goal, its scope has extended to the rest of the country and even to Latin America, seeking the comprehensive development of society, encouraging new ways to spot new creative talent and thus generate cultural, social and economic wealth.

Correos’ stamp for this institution, framed by its remarkable building, shows an image of the Centre in which we can see how light envelops it, its modern silhouette, and its integration with the natural elements of this part of Santander, making it even more special.