Porphyry is the surface of choice in the famous Hidalgo Plaza. Stone, which has been associated with public spaces forever, has been used to create timeless spaces while meeting the requirements of beauty and permanence in design.
The Project for Public Spaces lists Plaza Hidalgo as one of the “Worlds 10 Best Squares”
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Copper Mountain Porphyry surrounds the Fountain in Hidalgo Square
“This square is an important center of community life in the Coyoacán neighborhood of Mexico City. (Coyoacán refers to one of the sixteen boroughs (delegaciones) of the Federal District of Mexico City as well as the former village which is now the borough’s historic center.) A neighboring church, Iglesia San Juan Bautista, is an oft-visited site for both residents and tourists, but the park is the real glue that holds the area together. Although the design consists of a formal set of linear paths, Plaza Hidalgo functions quite flexibly, allowing visitors to circulate freely between different sections. On a typical day, one side of the plaza throngs with people at market stalls; vendors at another spot draw people with their fresh lemonades and ices; in still another area, they congregate around benches and a small fountain under the shade of trees. These artfully placed amenities act as focal points, which create activity throughout the plaza. Rather than dictating where people can go, these linear paths act as connections between various destinations in the park. It is consistently active and we think it is one of the finest destinations anywhere in North America.”
Copper Mountain porphyry around statue base
Public Squares
With historical roots in cultures all over the world, the public square is being rediscovered as an effective tool for bringing people together. In cities and towns around the world, people are crying out for lively gathering places where civic life flourishes and different cultures mix. Public squares are important to cities’ social and economic future because they are where people experience their neighborhoods and each other. The benefits go far beyond just making better spaces for people:
About the Project for Public Spaces
Project for Public Spaces (PPS) is a nonprofit planning, design and educational organization dedicated to helping people create and sustain public spaces that build stronger communities. Our pioneering Placemaking approach helps citizens transform their public spaces into vital places that highlight local assets, spur rejuvenation and serve common needs.
Photo Credits: Coyote Fountain – Thelma Hatter, Hidalgo Statue – Alejandro Linares Garcia
Porphyry’s composition determines its high compression strength, resistance to stains, slip resistance, and high freeze/thaw ratings. The stone is the most popular paver in Europe, and is favored for its flexibility in design, beauty, durability and low maintenance requirements. ADA Compliant Porphyry pavers are also adaptable to a permeable paving set. The stone is by far one of the most durable pavers in the world. These materials are available from Milestone Imports. – www.milestoneimports.com
