Matera is going to be 2019 European Capital of Culture, a very good reason for refreshing its look.
Stefano Boeri Architetti studio has been chosen to design the new Matera Central Railway Station, which will become a recognizable public space, an integral part of the pedestrian square, directly connected to the main access routes to the historic city centre.
The project consists of the structural renovation of the actual Matera Central FAL Railway Station, (one of the three FAL Bari – Matera stations serving the city) through an aesthetic and functional redevelopment together with technological upgrading of the railway itself.
The aim is to give greater visibility to the Matera Central FAL Railway Station which is no longer to be considered simply as a necessary service structure sufficient for the railway connection, but a genuine and significant urban landmark, adapted to the primary urban and territorial function that the new service aspires to fulfill in step with the important role that the City of Matera is going to represent in Europe.
A large rectangular opening in the roof of the underground gallery roof, covering about 440 square metres, directly connects the two above and below ground parts of the station bringing natural light and air to the completely redeveloped underground tunnel.
This important first step in the renovation process is linked to a new building that performs all the reception functions, ticketing, connections and services offered by the station as well as the main visible element, a large new roof of 44 mts by 33 mts and about 12 mts in height.
This shelter transforms the external space into a covered square usable by travellers, residents and tourists who can enjoy a new public space for meeting, waiting, passing through or just walking.
The new structure is expected to be ready by May 2019.