Mediterranean Cultural Center
in Reggio Calabria,
design: Zaha Hadid Architects
Construction of the Mediterranean Cultural Centerhas begun in Reggio Calabria, a city on the Strait of Messina in southern Italy. The project, prepared by British studio Zaha Hadid Architects, is being built on a seaside plot as part of the Reggio Waterfront revitalization. Its goal is to connect the port to the city and create a public space that will support culture and social relations.
Mediterranean Cultural Center in Reggio Calabria - the idea for the project was born in 2007, and the realization was made possible by funding from 2021
visualization: NightNurse © Zaha Hadid Architects
project history
The idea for the center was born in 2007, when Zaha Hadid Architects won an international architectural competition. The realization was made possible by 2021 funding from the National Plan for Rebuilding and Increasing Resilience and the 2021-2027 Metropolitan Cities Operational Program. The project was adapted to current environmental standards, combining architectural vision with concern for the future of the region.
The lump of the Mediterranean Cultural Center in Reggio Calabria will resemble the radial symmetry of a starfish
visualization: NightNurse © Zaha Hadid Architects
architecture with marine DNA
The lump of the center will refer to the marine environment. The flowing form with rounded edges will resemble the radial symmetry of a starfish. The facades will be covered with aluminum panels reflecting light, and the roof will be decorated with openings to illuminate the interiors. The building will consist of four wings extending from a two-story atrium - the main entrance from the city. Sheltered courtyards will provide views of the harbor, the city and the Strait of Messina with Sicily in the distance.
Inside the Reggio Calabria Mediterranean Cultural Center will be permanent and temporary galleries, an aquarium, conference rooms with an auditorium, and educational spaces
visualization: NightNurse © Zaha Hadid Architects
The 24,000 square meters will include permanent and temporary galleries, an aquarium, meeting rooms with an auditorium, and educational spaces for schools. Visitors will benefit from a bookstore and a restaurant with a bar overlooking the harbor. The interiors reflect the atmosphere of the Mediterranean: the auditorium is distinguished by shades of coral, and the aquarium emphasizes the fluidity of the water.
Mediterranean Cultural Center in Reggio Calabria - view of the aquarium
visualization: NightNurse © Zaha Hadid Architects
Reggio Calabria - the heart of Mediterranean history
Located between mainland Italy and Sicily, Reggio Calabria has been uniting the cultures of the Mediterranean for centuries. Its history and rich marine ecosystems have shaped the local identity. The center is expected to strengthen this bond, complementing local archaeological and art museums with a new story about the region's past and future. The waterfront revitalization will include shoreline upgrades, a city park and a longer promenade. This will give residents and visitors better access to the shoreline, with views of the strait and Sicily, and the previously neglected space will regain its importance.
The waterfront revitalization will include shoreline upgrades, a city park and a longer promenade
Visualization: NightNurse © Zaha Hadid Architects
a place for meetings and inspiration
The center will host cultural events, exhibitions and debates, connecting the port to the life of the city. Its versatile design will allow for performances, presentations and industry meetings. An aquarium and galleries will introduce man's relationship with the sea, while educational zones will support learning in the region.
The Mediterranean Cultural Center in Reggio Calabria will host cultural events, exhibitions and debates
Visualization: NightNurse © Zaha Hadid Architects
ecology in practice
The design will take into account the local climate. The façade, 90 percent opaque with aluminum panels, will reduce the building's heating and cooling requirements. Materials from the region will reduce the carbon footprint of transportation, and their durability will reduce the need for repairs. Rainwater will feed the building and surrounding macchia with 60 species of native plants, supporting biodiversity. Natural ventilation and building layout will increase energy efficiency.
Mediterranean Cultural Center in Reggio Calabria - interior view
visualization: NightNurse © Zaha Hadid Architects
The future in harmony with the past
The Mediterranean Cultural Center in Reggio Calabria intertwines Mediterranean heritage with modernity. It is a space for dialogue and inspiration that pays homage to the region's history while paving the way for its future. Here, residents and visitors can discover history, nature and culture in the heart of the Mediterranean.
Elaborated: Anastazja Dżupina
Illustrations provided courtesy of Zaha Hadid Architects.
