A Historic Square Making Way for the Future

Palma's Plaza Mayor, the symbolic heart of the old quarter, is facing major architectural changes after decades of inactivity. The winning project, titled Ágora 001, proposes a modern re-interpretation of this space with a proposal that breaks down barriers, recovers heritage and turns it into a cultural hub open to the public.

Designed by the studios Barceló Balanzó and Scob, the square will be arranged on two levels: an upper floor as the main open space for public activities, and a lower floor converted into an agora, with galleries bathed in sunlight, meeting areas, an amphitheatre, events spaces and a future visitor centre for the city. The symbolic revival of the old cloister of Sant Felip Neri adds a layer of historical background to the project.

Beyond recovering the public use of the underground space, the plan seeks to reshape the immediate urban surroundings: streets such as Marquès de Palmer, Sant Miquel, Costa del Teatre and Plaça dels Capellers will prioritise pedestrian traffic and address the current lack of unity between the two levels. Ramps, lifts and steps are planned to guarantee accessible routes without architectural barriers, one of the main demands of local organisations.

The project is part of a wider strategy to revamp the centre, in connection with other initiatives such as the renovation of Plaça del Mercat and the cultural hub linking the square with Teatre Principal and CaixaForum. The project’s drafting team has six months to submit the final version, with work scheduled to start by the end of 2026. The square will no longer be a mere residual space, but will blossom into public infrastructure that is lively and welcoming to everyday use.