Sustainable Urban Landscape Design in Historic Sites: Viewpoint Garden at the Alcazaba-Fortress of Vélez-Málaga

The Viewpoint Garden at the Alcazaba-Fortress of Vélez-Málaga, designed by Terral Arquitectos, is a landmark project that combines sustainable urban landscape design with cultural and historical preservation. Situated in the La Villa neighborhood at the highest point of Vélez-Málaga, Spain, this 2,285-square-meter green space revitalizes a degraded area, connecting the city’s historical legacy with modern ecological solutions. Completed in 2024, the project reflects a harmonious blend of history, sustainability, and functionality.

Integrating Historical and Cultural Context

The garden is located within the BIC Historic Center of Vélez-Málaga, an area of significant historical and archaeological value. The neighborhood, while rich in cultural heritage, faces challenges such as social issues and depopulation. This project aims to revitalize the area by reconnecting residents and visitors with the city's history through thoughtful design.

Terral Arquitectos carefully navigated the historical importance of the site while enhancing its accessibility and usability. The area now features improved connections between Fortaleza Street and Palafrenero Street through the construction of a new staircase that integrates seamlessly into the environment.

Rainwater Harvesting and Irrigation Systems

A key sustainable feature of the project is the innovative rainwater harvesting and recirculation system. Rainwater, which previously flowed down adjacent streets and was wasted, is now redirected to an underground reservoir beneath one of the viewpoints. This water is stored and used to irrigate the hillside garden during dry periods through a scheduled drip irrigation system.

This approach not only conserves water but also supports the health of the garden, which primarily features native plant species. The emphasis on sustainability demonstrates how urban landscape design can contribute to environmental resilience.

Revitalizing Urban Spaces

The project includes the creation of Fortaleza Square, a public gathering space that connects the newly developed green areas and viewpoints. This square serves as a gateway to the hillside garden and provides areas for relaxation and social interaction.

The viewpoints offer stunning vistas of Vélez-Málaga and its surrounding territory, highlighting the relationship between the city and its natural landscape. These spaces encourage visitors to appreciate the city’s architectural heritage and its integration with the environment.

Locally Sourced Materials and Craftsmanship

The construction of the Viewpoint Garden reflects a commitment to supporting local industries and sustainability. The paving materials were sourced from the tile factories of Vélez-Málaga, which produce handmade fired clay using traditional Moorish kilns. The process relies on biomass, such as almond shells and avocado wood, as a renewable energy source.

By using locally crafted materials, the project not only reduces its carbon footprint but also supports an artisanal industry that was on the verge of disappearing. This choice reinforces the connection between the project and the city’s cultural identity.

A Model for Sustainable Landscape Design

The Viewpoint Garden at the Alcazaba-Fortress of Vélez-Málaga exemplifies how urban landscape design can address environmental, social, and cultural challenges. By combining sustainable water management, native planting, and thoughtful integration into a historic context, the project serves as a model for revitalizing urban spaces in a way that respects both the past and the future.

This innovative design by Terral Arquitectos demonstrates the potential of landscape architecture to transform neglected areas into vibrant, multifunctional spaces that benefit the community and environment alike.

All Photographs are works of Fernando Gómez Mateos