The growing and prolonged heatwaves in Madrid have prompted administrations, social entities, and cultural institutions to rethink the use of public spaces during summer. Climate refuges have solidified as a key adaptation strategy, offering accessible and free locations for thermal relief and public rest.
The Círculo de Bellas Artes, in the capital's center, and the Centro de Arte Dos de Mayo (CA2M) in Móstoles, have adapted their facilities to welcome residents and visitors. Concurrently, CCOO of Madrid has opened its regional offices as respite spaces for workers exposed to high temperatures.
The Ballroom of the Círculo de Bellas Artes will once again become a unique climate refuge this summer, from July 10th to September 6th. This initiative, launched in 2024, aims to provide a cool, free, and accessible space during extreme heat episodes.
“"A climate refuge is a climate adaptation measure adopted in some cities, especially for the most vulnerable people who may not have the possibility to enjoy thermal comfort in their homes."
Andrea Temes, Coordinator of Strategic Development at the Círculo de Bellas Artes, explains these spaces are crucial for vulnerable groups. The project merges culture and sustainability, fostering debate on the climate emergency and aiming to generate awareness and more hopeful future imaginaries.
The initiative also stems from a reflection on the institution's role in the city, seeking to strengthen ties with Madrid residents. The first edition, focused on climate action, attracted over 40,000 visitors. The second, themed 'deceleration,' featured a 'siestodrome' and hosted 65,000 visitors, emphasizing the right to rest and reflecting on how we inhabit the world.
“"We want to talk about play not just as a recreational activity, but almost as a political act to break norms and open the possibility of imagining more hopeful futures."
The third edition focuses on play as a tool for social transformation. The main installation, designed by Recetas Urbanas (a collective led by Santiago Cirugeda), will offer rest areas, reading nooks, board games, and free cultural programming, including the 'Political Fictions Crisis Cabinet' for collective reflection on contemporary challenges.
The Círculo will collaborate with entities like Soñar Despierto and municipal day centers to facilitate access for vulnerable groups, aspiring for "every neighborhood to have its own climate refuge."
A short distance away, the CA2M in Móstoles also reconsiders the role of cultural institutions in the face of the eco-social crisis. Carlos Granados, an educator at the center, notes their aim to transform the museum into an everyday, friendly meeting point, not solely for exhibitions or consumption.
The 'La Fresquera' project offers thermal comfort and diverse uses, with tables, play areas, and relaxation zones. Additionally, the 'Regadera' service allows residents to leave their plants for care during vacations, fostering connections between neighbors and the museum.
This year, under the name 'Meterse en un jardín' (Getting into a Garden), the CA2M seeks to create a plant-care community with support from the Laboratorio de Abundancias. Most users are Móstoles residents who already intuitively used the space to escape the heat, reinforcing the museum's role as a place of welcome and care.
Meanwhile, CCOO of Madrid has designated its 18 regional headquarters as climate refuges for workers exposed to extreme heat, such as delivery personnel, street cleaners, and construction workers, highlighting health risks and encouraging their use for hydration and cooling.
