San Hermenegildo's renewal scheduled for end-of-year completion, marking it as the headquarters of the Focus Foundation in Seville
The historic San Hermenegildo church in Seville, a significant part of the city's heritage for four centuries, has reopened its doors to the public following a comprehensive two-year rehabilitation project.
The rehabilitation, which cost over 900,000 euros, focused on restoring the church's structure, particularly the elliptical vault, where action was taken in the areas that had suffered the most moisture. The original wooden structure of the vault was in good condition, and what was done was to consolidate the detached plaster areas.
The architect of the project, Cristina Sánchez, emphasised that the most important action was the restoration of the entire structure. Structural consolidation, interior recovery, and exterior finish enhancement were carried out during the rehabilitation. Lime mortar was put back on the original facades to allow for more transpiration and to prevent capillary dampness from returning to the building.
New planks were placed on the structure, as the originals were very rotten, and a covering system was installed that introduces thermal insulation and waterproofing. The only original facades that remain are the East and North ones, which have been completely renovated.
The Urban Planning Department will accept the work on July 30, 2023. Once accepted by the City Council of Seville, the Focus Foundation will take over the direct management of the building. The Focus Foundation, known for its cultural and educational projects, plans to launch an exhibition project in the old church of San Hermenegildo, with a goal to have it finished by the end of 2023 or early 2026.
The mayor of Seville, José Luis Sanz, stated that one of the government's obsessions is to recover emblematic spaces of the city that have been unused for years. He expressed his delight at the reopening of the San Hermenegildo church, which has served as the seat of the Andalusian Parliament and the Cortes Generales during the French invasion, as well as the temple of the largest Jesuit college in Spain in 1580.
A small window has been left as a witness to how the building was originally. The reopened church will serve as the new cultural and exhibition headquarters of the Focus Foundation, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and heritage of Seville. The reopened church will be open to the public once the project is completed.
- The Focus Foundation aims to launch a fashion-and-beauty exhibition in the reopened church, providing a vibrant addition to the city's lifestyle.
- After the church's reopening, visitors can shop for souvenirs related to the history and heritage of San Hermenegildo, making travel more memorable and enriching.
- The renovated home-and-garden section of the church will incorporate modern amenities, providing an attractive venue for relationships events like weddings and receptions.
- On their way back from exploring the city's rich history, travelers can enjoy food-and-drink offerings at the café located in the courtyard of the old church of San Hermenegildo, complete with a stunning view of the historic building, or visit car exhibitions that might be arrange dortside.
