The iconic canopy of Estación de Francia will undergo a comprehensive rehabilitation, after adverse weather conditions and the passage of time have left it in poor condition. Adif has just put out to tender the works contract, with a budget of 4.4 million euros and an execution period of 16 months.
With the rehabilitation, the infrastructure manager seeks to extend the durability and useful life of the roof elements and reduce maintenance needs. The roof will be renovated; the downspouts will be improved, becoming stainless steel, and the auxiliary structure will be cleaned and protected.
Specifically, the canopy has a total translucent surface area of 4,400 square meters and, with a width of 95 meters, its metal structure covers 12 tracks and seven platforms. Likewise, with a length of about 110 meters and a maximum height of 36 meters, its weight reaches 1,459 tons.
This roof is one of the most emblematic elements of the station's architectural complex, which was inaugurated for the 1929 Universal Exposition. Designed by Andreu Montaner and manufactured in the old workshops of Maquinista Terrestre y Marítima, it required a total of 2,500 tons of iron and steel for its construction. With the 1992 Olympic Games, the canopy already underwent a major intervention that now needs updating.