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Abandoned Housing Project in Spain Becomes Video Game-Inspired Airsoft Field, Transforming the Town of Siete Aguas into an Unexpected Attraction in Europe
In a setting that looks straight out of a video game, an abandoned housing project in Spain has turned into one of the most curious airsoft fields in Europe. Partly inspired by the famous Nuketown map from the Call of Duty series, the site, named District Zero, has become an unexpected attraction in the small town of Siete Aguas.
The Birth of “District Zero”
Siete Aguas, located in the province of Valencia, is about a half-hour from the Valencian capital. The municipality, which now has around one thousand residents, gained notoriety due to a real estate venture that was never completed.
The area, approximately 500 thousand square meters, was set to host more than 600 villas, a shopping center, and even a golf course.
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To avoid competing for attention with the beach, architects buried part of a house in Bahia, supported the structure with glued laminated timber, and opened the veranda for a direct view of the Atlantic.
However, the ambitious project never reached completion. In 2007, the Spanish Ministry of the Environment halted construction.
The reason was the environmental impact of constructing municipal roads within a public forest area. After the decision, new disputes arose with the authority responsible for the construction, and the project ended up being completely halted.
In the end, only 53 buildings were completed. Unable to rent out the unfinished homes and accumulating costs and fines, the construction company saw the dream of a large housing complex crumble.
The Unexpected Transformation
It was only in 2019 that the fate of Siete Aguas began to change. An airsoft association discovered the location on their own and recognized the potential of the abandoned buildings for the sport. In agreement with the land owner, the area was authorized for use as a sports complex.
Thus, “District Zero” was born, a space specially adapted for airsoft battles, including team matches and search and destroy style rounds. The solution ended up benefiting all parties involved.
Benefits for the Town and Residents
The conversion of the space brought practical advantages. The owner, who previously suffered losses with the failed project, began to obtain a new source of income by renting the area for sports activities.
The airsoft association gained a unique setting, with real buildings that make matches even more immersive.
For the residents of Siete Aguas, the project has also brought peace of mind. The abandoned space, which could attract vandals or squatters, is now constantly monitored and used in an organized manner.
Thus, in addition to security, “District Zero” has also put the town on the map as a reference for airsoft practitioners. The ghost town has finally gained a new life.
With information from IGN.
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