Burgos, Spain

AGi Architects propose an expansion of the Archives of the Castilfalé Palace in the city of Burgos, with an ascending route that begins in the Plaza de la Catedral, crosses the Palace, and ends at the roof, where the new ‘Plaza Mirador’ is located, allowing one to enjoy the views of the historic center.

An ascending route is created that begins in the Plaza de la Catedral, crosses the Palace and ends at the roof, where the new ‘Plaza Mirador’ is located, allowing you to enjoy the views of the historic center.

The Castilfalé palace houses the Archive of the city of Burgos. 

It is a magnificent example of Burgos Renaissance architecture, located opposite the Cathedral, a great representative of Gothic art in Europe.

The proposal was the winner of the contest for the expansion of the Archive.

The first objective of the project is to ensure the aesthetic integration of the new architectural volume next to the Gothic temple. 

The façade is made of stone, wood and brick, as well as becomes mute, proposing an abstract cloth that gives prominence to both the Palace and the Cathedral.

The interior of the file is designed according to your specific technical needs. 

An atrium of vertical circulations with overhead light organizes the routes and accesses to the rooms. 

A double technical wall with high insulation delimits the deposits, guaranteeing the conservation and security of documents, photographic and cartographic material, books and special supports.

Another of the key strategies of the project is the opening of the Palace to the citizens and its link to the urban space. 

An ascending route is created that begins in the Plaza de la Catedral, crosses the Palace, and ends on the roof, where the new Plaza Mirador is located, which allows you to enjoy the views of the historic center.

The necessary constructive strategies are proposed so that the energy efficiency of the project is optimal. 

The project pursues the energy efficiency standards of a Passivhaus building, through interventions that include the perimeter continuity of the thermal envelope, a heat recovery system and a southeast-facing skylight that allows solar collection in winter.

Project: Ampliación del Archivo de Burgos en el Palacio de Castilfalé
Architects: AGi Architects
Client: Archivo de Burgos
Images Courtesy of the Architects