Onda's Plaza España unveiled its new look this afternoon following a comprehensive transformation that returns it to residents as an emblematic space, now greener, more accessible, and sustainable. The legendary La Panderola train crowns the main fountain, symbolizing a climate refuge where ceramics, memory, and Ondense identity are present in every corner.
The project, with an investment of nearly three million euros and European co-financing, has completely renovated the space with new paving, more trees and vegetation, shaded and seating areas, children's play zones, and ornamental elements. The surrounding environment and the connection to the Municipal Market have also been improved.
“"Plaza España is at the heart of generations of Ondenses, and we had the enormous responsibility of creating a project worthy of it. Today, we return to the residents a square with soul, designed to be lived in, to meet, and to create new memories; a square that looks to the future without renouncing our history, our ceramics, and our roots."
La Panderola, closely linked to Onda's daily life and development, reclaims its place in the urban landscape through a replica that presides over the ornamental fountain, honoring collective memory. Local identity is reinforced with ceramic coverings from local companies on the fountain and planters, as well as artisanal ceramic tomatoes by ceramist Joana Segura, celebrating local produce and ties to the Municipal Market.
The square incorporates new meeting spaces, such as an area dedicated to Mafalda and children's play areas for families. It has been designed as an urban climate refuge thanks to increased trees, vegetation, shaded areas, and a cooling system on the pergola, making it more pleasant year-round. Accessibility has been enhanced with the leveling of the space and the installation of an elevator in the underground parking.
The transformation also extends to the perimeter of the Municipal Market, with renovated sidewalks and paving for better integration. The City Council has provided aid of 37,000 euros to local businesses and hospitality establishments and 10,000 euros to the Municipal Market Association during the works. The market will also feature two large ceramic murals from the El Molí Occupational Center.
The renovation is part of the ‘Onda RecONecta’ Plan, through which the City Council has secured 6.4 million euros in European Next Generation EU funds. The mayor thanked the citizens for their collaboration and stated, 'Now is the time to fill the square with life, enjoy it, and care for it as one of Onda's new treasures'.
The inauguration included a parade, children's storytelling, and a photo booth, with La Panderola as a central point for families.
