Metropol Parasol: The Largest Wooden Structure In The World

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The largest wooden structure in the world is surprisingly hidden in a quiet neighborhood of Seville, Spain. Called the Metropol Parasol, the 490 by 230-foot monstrosity floats casually above La Encarnación square like a space ship landing in the middle of a city. Underneath, Spaniards siesta and carry about everyday life oblivious to the intrusion, while visitors can ride an elevator up to the top of the structure and explore the flowing architecture. Make sure to explore market underneath the Parasol as well – though it’s got a modern layout reflective of the parent structure, there’s plenty of Iberico jamon and Rioja to remind of you of the old world.

[Photo Credits: Grant Martin and Liz Telschow]