Restoration of La Giralda

Step into the world of architectural preservation as the fascinating story of a historic landmark unfolds before your eyes. The Restoration of La Giralda exhibition will be on display March 7 - August 31 at the Coral Gables Museum, showcasing the meticulous care given to this significant architectural monument that has inspired structures worldwide.

The Giralda Tower in Sevilla represents a fusion of cultures and building traditions. Originally constructed as a minaret using repurposed Roman materials in 12th-century al-Andalus, it later transformed into a cathedral bell tower crowned with a Renaissance-era belfry. Today, its elegant silhouette has inspired architectural echoes across continents, including Miami's Freedom Tower and the Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables.

This exhibition, coinciding with Coral Gables' Centennial Celebration, documents the recent comprehensive restoration project led by Architect Eduardo Martinez Moya and executed by specialty craftsmen from Kalam. Visitors will discover the tower's rich history, far-reaching influence and the intricate process behind preserving this World Heritage Site for future generations.

Curated by Ricardo Lopez, Principal at RJ Heisenbottle Architects and faculty at the University of Miami School of Architecture, the exhibition celebrates both architectural preservation and the cultural bonds between sister cities Sevilla and Coral Gables.