Shakira has transformed a temporary plot of land into Macondo Park, a sprawling entertainment complex in Madrid. The project spans 220,000 square meters and functions as a “Ciudad Shakira” for the duration of the artist’s residency. It officially opened on September 18 and is scheduled to remain active until October 11.
Design Inspired by Literary Fiction
The complex draws its name and thematic foundation from Gabriel García Márquez’s novel One Hundred Years of Solitude. Its design was guided by Shakira and the Danish studio BIG. Stefani Fachini De Araujo, an associate at BIG, explained to BBC Mundo that the goal was to translate Latin American identity into a shared experience. Visitors cross colorful arches marked with the phrase “Es Latina” to enter the city.
A central avenue leads to the Árbol de Macondo, which serves as the heart of the venue. This element acts as a gathering point for various activities. The layout creates distinct paths to different pavilions and the stadium. While the area is large, it is not designed as a permanent park.
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Spaces Within the City
The centerpiece of Macondo Park is the Estadio Shakira, a custom-built venue with a raised stage and seating for over 55,000 people. However, the experience extends beyond the main stage. The Biblioteca offers an immersive experience connected to the novel, featuring activities with 24 writers including Lydia Cacho and Rosa Montero.
Organizers estimate that around 600,000 people will visit the site during the concerts. The schedule includes dates in September and October, specifically the 18th, 19th, 20th, 25th, 26th, 27th, and the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 9th, 10th, and 11th. The structures will be disassembled after the final show.
Seasonal Disappearance
Macondo Park operates on a temporary cycle. Once the concerts conclude, the “Ciudad Shakira” will cease to exist physically. Its components will be dismantled.
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