La Barzola: Seville's Inverted Pyramid Neighborhood with a Rich History and Unique Community Spirit

Seville, Spain - The La Barzola neighborhood, nestled within Seville's Macarena district, stands as a testament to unique urban planning and enduring community spirit. Established in 1942 by the Municipal Housing Board, the area was designed with a distinctive inverted pyramid shape, a feature that continues to define its layout today. Initially, La Barzola provided housing for numerous families on the city's periphery. The first phase, completed in 1943, comprised 384 homes. By 1950, a market square, now the Macarena district, was constructed, becoming a central hub. In 1962, the 'new Barzola' was inaugurated, adding 270 more dwellings. Architectural variations emerged, with early blocks featuring three floors and later ones extending to five, creating a scaffold-like growth pattern. One of the neighborhood's most striking features is its street naming convention, a blend of religious figures and chivalric knights, each street seemingly telling its own story. The central street, Virgen del Mayor Dolor, descends from the highest point, branching into five 'rib-like' streets that converge at the Plaza Virgen del Pilar, considered the heart of the community. The history of property ownership in La Barzola is notably complex. While early residents rented from the Housing Board, a 1996 regulation aimed to transfer ownership to residents who had amortized their payments over decades. However, some properties reportedly remain without deeds, leading to ongoing challenges. Residents express a deep affection for their neighborhood. One long-term resident, who has lived there since 1950, highlighted the strong community bonds. Another praised the warm, light-filled environment and the friendly people. A new bar owner, who recently purchased her establishment, shared her excitement about the green spaces and named her bar 'Doña Ivy' in honor of her late mother. However, some residents also noted a decline in traditional community events and the presence of squatters as current concerns. Despite these challenges, La Barzola remains a vibrant and historically rich part of Seville.

Diario ABC

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