Nowa architektura w uzdrowiskach Zatoki Biskajskiej
New architecture in the resorts of the Bay of Biscay

Summary/Abstract: New ideas in shaping twenty-first century resorts place high importance on culture and art. Hence the special interest of designers in creating space in this context – the space which is beautiful, and which serves beauty. The possibility of completing an original project in a spa resort has always been a challenge, and the best architects have applied for such commissions, thus creating emblematic local buildings in their respective epochs. Also the Cantabrian and Basque spa resorts have entered a new, twenty-first-century era with unique and expressive architecture. The paper presents recent projects, which promote broadly understood modern art in Santander and in San Sebastián. The Botin Centre, a venue for culture and arts in Santander designed by Renzo Piano, and the Kursaal Congress Centre and Auditorium designed by Rafael Moneo in San Sebastián, are presented in detail. These most original buildings, differing in aesthetics, building materials, and functioning principles, have marked the opening of a new era in the development and facilities of resort towns. Hence the presentation of the new projects is preceded by a brief outline of the historical development of these cities, and a reminder of their landmarks and most significant facilities.

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