dellekamp arquitectos and periferica: circle sanctuary

‘circle sanctuary’ by dellekamp arquitectos and periferica image courtesy dellekamp arquitectos and periferica

ruta peregrino is a path that goes from ameca to talpa de allende in the state of jalisco near guadalajara, mexico. during holy week about 2 million people walk along the pilgrimage path. the municipalities of the area wanted to provide pilgrims with permanent service areas and invited a team of international architects to design various parts such as shelters and lookout points. for the path mexican firm dellekamp arquitectos in collaboration with periférica have designed ‘circle sanctuary’. the simple circle sculpture will be surrounded by trees and provide a resting area for pilgrims.

image courtesy dellekamp arquitectos and periferica

the circle is a universal symbol of unity, a meaning that transcends cultures, borders, and languages. it appears time and time again within the religious rituals and depictions, from the halo of holy figures to the shape of the holy spirit during communion. it also represents a cycle, a never-ending journey symbolizing the faith of pilgrims. the circle offers a place for introspection, a space for pilgrims to look back upon their journey, before carrying on to their final destination.

image courtesy dellekamp arquitectos and periferica

image courtesy dellekamp arquitectos and periferica

image courtesy dellekamp arquitectos and periferica

model of ‘circle sanctuary’ image courtesy dellekamp arquitectos and periferica

circle forms in various parts of nature image courtesy dellekamp arquitectos and periferica

project info:

program: sculpture location: cerro del obispo, jalisco, mexico status: construction begins on january 2008 architectural project: dellekamp arquitectos | derek dellekamp and périferica | rozana montiel team: alin wallach, aldo espinobarros, pedro sánchez, ignacio méndez, jachen schleich, sandra pérez