3.4 Reviving the Neglected Spaces

Calle los Telares & Puerta de San Isidro

Calle los Telares, formerly known as 'Los Gitanos,' holds a rich and diverse history in the heart of Ávila. Once a key part of the city's Jewish Quarter during the Middle Ages, the Jewish community engaged in various trades here, including textile production, which influenced the street's current name. Over time, the area experienced significant transformations, including a phase when the Gitano (Roma) community predominantly inhabited it, leading to its previous name, 'Los Gitanos.'

Today, Calle los Telares is situated in a less affluent part of the city center. Despite its historical significance, the area has had difficulty maintaining its earlier vibrancy. Its closeness to the Gate of San Isidro, a notable city entrance, underscores its potential for rejuvenation and improved connectivity within Ávila.

Given the street's distinctive history and location, it offers an ideal opportunity for our project, which seeks to transform this previously neglected area into a thriving part of the city. Utilising the folding process inspired by the broader Ávila landscape, we aim to develop a design that respects the area's cultural and historical context while addressing current needs. With its proximity to Plaza de la Santa, our project can revive the area by forging a strong connection to Santa Teresa, creating an extended space for her annual procession. This connection will be instrumental in reestablishing Calle los Telares as a vibrant, culturally rich, and inclusive part of the city, harmonizing its past and promising future.

Extension into the City

The chosen site encompasses a neglected garden area, providing us with the chance to expand the project towards a more central part of the city. This expansion enables the creation of an additional entrance space on Calle Santo Domingo.