The Calatrava Sail, located in the Tor Vergata district of Rome and originally designed for the 2005 World Swimming Championships before being abandoned as an unfinished project, has recently captured the curiosity of onlookers as it illuminated with a spectacular new nighttime lighting display. The unique architecture of the Sail, conceived by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava and recognizable from many kilometers away for its structure reminiscent of a “shark fin,” came alive with stunning multicolored light displays, creating a striking visual effect. These are technical lighting tests for the iconic structure, ahead of its official lighting on December 24 as part of the Italian State Property Agency’s contribution to Rome’s 2025 Jubilee.

Abandoned for nearly 14 years and considered one of Rome’s largest unfinished projects, the Calatrava Sail will be made accessible again for the Jubilee thanks to safety and redevelopment work carried out by the State Property Agency. The area will be fully open and permeable, featuring an arena capable of hosting up to 12,000 visitors. The development plan for the area, coordinated with the Ministry of Economy and Finance and the Technical Table led by the President of the Region, with the participation of Rome’s Mayor and local institutions, includes the creation of a green city dedicated to well-being, research, and education. The project will utilize public-private partnerships to attract investments to the area.

The site will be open to citizens, tourists, and pilgrims, with the surrounding area undergoing extensive reforestation. This marks the beginning of one of the most significant sustainable urban regeneration projects, returning green spaces and wellness infrastructure, research and education laboratories to the community, all to be realized through public-private partnerships.