Reggio Calabria, a strategically located coastal city in southern Italy known for its stunning views and clear visibility of Sicily, is soon to welcome a new cultural landmark: the Center of Mediterranean Culture.
Designed by Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA), the site will feature 24,000 square meter space that will house an array of facilities, spanning from exhibition galleries, an aquarium, multifunctional conference spaces, an auditorium, as well as educational spaces for local schools. Additional amenities for visitors also include a bookshop and a restaurant & bar overlooking the picturesque port.
Positioned at the intersection of trade routes and rich marine ecosystems, Reggio Calabria has long served as a gateway between the eastern and western Mediterranean. The sprawling new site will explore the city’s deep connection with the Mediterranean Sea, all the while complementing existing archaeological and art museums.
Emphasizing sustainability, the center also incorporates strategies tailored to local climate conditions, resource efficiency and ecological enhancement. The façade, made of locally sourced marine-grade anodized aluminum panels, reduces solar heat gain and supports long-term energy savings.
The Reggium Waterfront redevelopment also addresses the environmental degradation and erosion that have affected the city’s coastline over several decades, thus significantly enhancing accessibility to this prominent section of the shoreline.
Construction has recently just begun for the Center of Mediterranean Culture. At the time of writing, no estimated completion date has been announced.
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