Date Published: 22/02/2022
ARCHIVED - Murcia approves protection plan for San Esteban archaeological site
The Arrabal de la Arrixaca area in Murcia is protected as an Asset of Cultural Interest (BIC)
Murcia City Council has given the green light to the new Special Protection Plan which aims to adapt and manage the Arrabal de la Arrixaca area of San Esteban archaeological site.
The intention is to convert the 13,000m2 site, which is protected as an Asset of Cultural Interest, into a public space for cultural, educational and social use and to promote tourism.
Given that the area will have two different characteristics, one of historic interest and the other classified as gardens, the site will be split into two different zones for different uses.
And because the Archaeological Zone of San Esteban has been declared an asset of cultural interest, only activities involving the discovery, protection and exhibition of the remains may be permitted.
Therefore, its use will be dedicated to research, conservation and study of the archaeological remains.
Meanwhile, the San Esteban garden maintains its status as a district park, and will be landscaped with the planting of trees which must occupy at least 80% of the surface area.
As part of the plan, which is expected to be ratified at a plenary session on Thursday February 24, the maximum occupation of other uses linked to the park will be limited to 5%, which means that only small buildings can be built, such as a cafeteria or storage area for excavation materials.
The buildings may not exceed 4.5 metres in height, and any vegetation planted must be indigenous to the area.
The plan also stipulates that all structural elements and foundations that support the garden on top of the archaeological remains, which will be open to visitors, must pose as little risk as possible to the historic site.
A number of mandatory features which must be included in the proposed museum structure include:
- good lighting and ventilation with humidity solutions;
- the ability to withstand crowds on the open space above for the hosting of fairs and exhibitions;
- observation points for the display of archaeological finds;
- and provisions to allow continued archaeological excavations.
“The architectural solution adopted should also take into account the relationship with the complex of the Palace and the Church of San Esteban, declared an asset of cultural interest, taking an approach that minimises the visual impact of the new development and enhances the integration of all the elements,” concludes the plan.
Until the garden is built at the San Estaban site, which will serve to protect the archaeological remains, it will continue to be protected from the elements with geotextile and gravel coverings.
Image: Ayuntamiento de Murcia
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