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L'Hemisfèric ~ Valencia

L'Hemisfèric (1998) — an IMAX Cinema, planetarium and laserium. The building is meant to resemble a giant eye, and has an approximate surface of 13,000 m². The Hemesferic also known as the planetarium or the “eye of knowledge,” is the centerpiece of the City of Arts and Sciences. It was the first building completed in 1998. Its design resembles an eyelid that opens to access the surrounding water pool. The bottom of the pool is glass, creating the illusion of the eye as a whole. This planetarium is a half-sphere composed of concrete 110 meters long and 55.5 meters wide. The shutter is built of elongated aluminum awnings that fold upward collectively to form a brise soleil roof that opens along the curved axis of the eye. It opens to reveal the dome, the "iris" of the eye, which is the Ominax theater. The City of Arts and Sciences is divided in half by a set of stairs that descend into the vaulted concrete lobby. The underground spaces are illuminated with the use of translucent glass panels within the walking path. The transparent roof is supported by concrete arches that connect to the sunken gallery. There is a miraculous echo inside of the building and if two people stay on the two opposite pillars inside of the eye they can seamlessly speak with each other.
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26 comments

Nick Weall said:

Wow ~ speedy LGM ~ Thank you xxx
5 years ago

Amelia said:

Fascinating info, and spectacular architecture, dear Nick. Did you try the seamless speaking miracle?
LGM x
5 years ago

Nick Weall replied to Amelia:

I'm afraid that I didn't have time to go into the building dear LGM. Maybe next time, if there ever is one :~) x
5 years ago

MaggsMep said:

Wow stunning and great reflections! Reminscent of a frogs eye.

Whereabouts in Spain, Nick? I want to put this on my visit list.
5 years ago

Nick Weall replied to MaggsMep:

Hi Maggie ~ It is in Valencia which is well worth a visit not just for these fabulous buildings. There is an interesting harbour area, a beach and some other interesting buildings including the station. Enough to keep you busy for a couple of days
5 years ago

Daniela Brocca said:

I want to Valencia only for the City of Arts and Sciences, even if there should be other things to see, I'm sure. :-)
5 years ago

Nick Weall replied to Daniela Brocca:

I hope that you get there Dani :~)
5 years ago

Ulrich John said:

Wow ! A fine architectural shot, nice at night and with great reflections !
5 years ago

Nick Weall replied to Ulrich John:

Thank you John ~ Yes a very tempting target for all photographers
5 years ago

Nick Weall said:

Thanks dear Nadia :~)
5 years ago ( translate )

Roger (Grisly) said:

Terrific reflections and a fine capture Nick
5 years ago ( translate )

Nick Weall replied to Roger (Grisly):

Thanks Roger ~ The building rather dictates the composition, the light is serendipity and a matter of patience ~ I have been there at various times of the day and evening ~ All the best ~~~ Nick
5 years ago

Annemarie said:

wonderful this my friend!
5 years ago ( translate )

Nick Weall replied to Annemarie:

Thank you so much
5 years ago

Ecobird said:

It does indeed look like a huge eye and makes a very eye-catching image with that beautiful light and reflections
5 years ago