Plaza de los Depósitos del Sol, Urban square in Albacete, Spain
The square features a large esplanade designed with a chess board pattern and contemporary urban landscaping elements. The layout includes children's play areas, a cybernetic fountain, and a pergola for shade. The renovated brick water tanks form architectural focal points at the edge of the public space. Trees and planted sections create green zones throughout the paved surface.
The water tanks were constructed in 1921 as the main water supply infrastructure for Albacete. After eight decades of operation, the facilities were decommissioned in 2001 and transformed into public spaces. The renovation project preserved the original brick structures while integrating them into a modern urban square design. The transformation marks a shift from industrial utility to community-focused facilities.
The former water tanks now house the Municipal Library Depósitos del Sol with over 15,000 books and multimedia resources. The facility serves as a community center for educational and cultural programs and remains an important gathering point for residents. The transformation of industrial infrastructure into public facilities demonstrates the city's commitment to accessible culture and knowledge.
The square sits in one of the highest areas of Albacete and is accessible on foot or by public transportation. Visitors should consider summer visits when the pergola and fountain provide cooling relief. Parking is available on surrounding streets, and nearby cafés offer refreshments. The play areas are suitable for families with young children. Neighborhood festivities take place from July 10th to 13th with traditional events.
The large-scale chess board pattern on the ground serves as both a design element and a functional space for oversized outdoor chess games. The design merges recreational use with visual geometry, creating a playable urban artwork. The elevated location provides views over surrounding neighborhoods and makes the space a popular vantage point for photographers.
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