The Holiest Skate Park IS Already Opened!

A historic church in the Spanish city of llanera was transformed into a skate park earlier this year by Okuda San Miguel (aka Okudart). Originally this church was established by Asturian architect Manuel del Busto in 1912, it was called the church of Santa Barbara in Llanera and was abandoned for years. Nowadays, this old church was turned into a public skate park called Kaos Temple. In collaboration with Red Bull and with La Iglesia Skatepark, the Okudart decorated the temple interior with bright and vibrant colored murals and developed art patterns that match the spirit of this sport.

Аn interesting project was released, because it retains the Romanesque Revival structure and shows a modern aspect of art.

When the project was at the initial stage, the church was covered with dust, everything was in ruins, walls were stained, and paint was peeling. The Santa Barbara’s church was constructed in 1912 as a gathering center for the workers at a nearby military factory. But when the plant was closed after the Spanish civil war, the church become abandoned. Fernández Rey came across this church and used this unique opportunity to open a business to remind people of his love for skateboarding. He said: “It’s got fascinating architecture, with high ceilings and lots of light.”

The Kaos Temple has made a tremendous success since opening because it was the one-of-kind indoor skatepark, located in a rainy area. Labeling themselves as the Church Brigade, Fernández Rey, and his friends received an income support, formed an association to collect money and build ramps.

Street artist Okuda San Miguel (from Madrid) stumbled across a photo ONLINE showing this upcoming project, so he decided to participate in refreshing the dream park. San Miguel took care of increasing budget of the project and attracted the corporate sponsors. “It’s like my own Sistine Chapel,” he said. Okuda San Miguel covers the church’s vaulted ceilings and walls with a kaleidoscope of striking geometric figures.

Fernández Rey told that the first visitors were still getting used to the new design. Nearly every flat interior surface is covered with multicolored patterns, lighted on every side, making this a truly beautiful place for having rest and improving skating skills.

After the painting was complete, the ramps were constructed, a visually inspiring and friendly location where skateboarders can polish their tricks. There is another nice feature: you may have a rest in soft couches while exploring Miguel's masterpieces.

Ann Johnson is a senior writer for Harvard Business School Working Knowledge, managing a wide array of topics and subjects including, art and architecture, music and sport, crime, and system of education. Following her years at the newspaper, Ann also worked in public relations at resume-for-you.com, helping promote small businesses throughout the U.S.