To sum up

Atlántida is a pioneering infrastructure developed by the Port Authority of Vigo as the flagship project of the Peiraos do Solpor strategy, integrating ecological restoration, ocean literacy and port engineering in a single public space. It is a remarkable achievement, providing an original, operational, and multipurpose infrastructure. Located on the Bouzas waterfront, it features an elevated pedestrian walkway over the sea, and a permanent underwater observatory built in reinforced concrete, equipped with wide panoramic windows below sea level that allow real-time observation of marine biodiversity and habitats.

The project combines several initiatives, including an educational centre and an innovation platform dedicated to marine ecosystem research. It offers a setting in which different solutions can be tested over timeframes compatible with natural processes and living systems. By combining scientific knowledge, observation of natural environments and practical experimentation, Atlántida demonstrates how these approaches can be integrated within a shared space. Building on experience gained through European projects that have successfully adopted phased approaches, it contributes to the development of shared, open living labs.

Led by the Port Authority and designed to benefit the city, the project brings together academic and educational stakeholders. It therefore offers an interesting governance model at the intersection of port activity, urban life, scientific research and environmental protection.

Design: UTE proyectista: UTE HIDTMA S.L., BERENGUER INGENIEROS S.L., EUROFINS IPROMA S.L.U.

Outstanding features:

• A new facility open to local residents, families, schools and visitors, which celebrates Vigo’s maritime and port culture and identity
• An elevated pedestrian walkway above the sea, combined with a permanent underwater observatory, offering a physical and symbolic reconnection between citizens and their maritime environment.
• Integrating nature-based solutions directly into the infrastructure’s design, so that the infrastructure itself becomes a vehicle for ecological restoration
• A long-term collaboration between the port authority, scientists, and maritime engineers, enabling experiments to be transformed into sustainable infrastructure.

Why was it selected as a finalist ?

Atlántida stands out for its innovative integration of underwater infrastructure into the port-city interface. By making the marine environment directly accessible to the public, it encourages port cities to rethink their relationship with the sea and recognise the links between water quality, marine biodiversity and the quality of life of urban residents. Its combination of environmental awareness, scientific research and public engagement offers an original approach to strengthening the relationship between ports, cities and citizens.

Images of the project

About the Port Authority of Vigo

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