Description

The Faculty of Science, located on the Fuentenueva Campus, was designed in 1962 by the architect Cruz López Müller, following the neorationalist trend of the time. Building work began in 1963, under the direction of architect Alberto López Palanco.

This was the first building to be constructed at Fuentenueva. The ground-plan comprises a central bay that runs North–South, crossed by a series of aisles that create form different courtyards. The concept was to create distinct spaces that, at the same time, would be presented as a unified whole, within a green setting. 

This architectural approach was conceived to offer maximum flexibility, both in terms of use of the internal spaces and also with an eye to possible future extensions. Since the building was inaugurated in 1970, it has undergone many major refurbishments and extensions, adding new blocks and storeys. 

The white façade presents a distinct horizontality that is further accentuated by the landscape layout of the windows, contrasted against a vertical metallic structure painted red. This design is interrupted by a trapezoidal block set into the main façade, which houses the auditorium. 

Once inside, the extensive double-height entrance hall stands out in particular, with its helicoidal staircase, striking circle-patterned tiled flooring, ceramic mural by Abelardo Herrero, and wooden panelled ceiling supported by a metal beamed structure.