Teórica nº10. "Barroco y Clasicismo. 1600-1750"

Introduction to Baroque Classicism

Overview of the Period (1600-1750)

• This series of talks focuses on the period known as Baroque Classicism, bridging the Renaissance and Enlightenment.

• The transition marks a significant historical moment characterized by the rise of experimental science, challenging previous humanist doctrines rooted in Aristotelian and Platonic thought.

Architectural Shifts

• The end of this period signals a departure from Vitruvian principles that dominated architecture for centuries, leading to new architectural explorations.

• A critical examination of architectural types occurs, moving away from absolute proportions based on classical ideals towards more subjective interpretations of beauty.

The Evolution of Beauty in Architecture

Sensualism vs. Absolutism

• The concept of beauty transitions to a sensualist perspective, emphasizing subjective experience over objective standards derived from ancient texts like those of Vitruvius.

• This shift influences philosophy and arts significantly, replacing established humanistic frameworks with experimental approaches that incorporate diverse sources and ideas.

Medieval Influence

• The medieval period gains appreciation in France for its aesthetic value, contrasting with Italy's focus on Roman architecture due to changing tastes and cultural dynamics.

Emergence of Formal Architectural Education

Transitioning Training Methods

• Prior to formal institutions, architectural training occurred informally alongside master builders in workshops (cantiere), focusing on practical skills rather than theoretical knowledge.

• The establishment of formal education systems begins under Louis XIV’s minister Colbert with the founding of the Academy of Architecture in 1671, marking a pivotal change in architectural training methods.

Control Over Artistic Expression

• This era is characterized by absolutism where state control extends over artistic expressions across various domains including military and political spheres, reflecting broader societal changes during this time.

Understanding the Evolution of War and Architecture

The Organization of War and State Structures

• The discussion begins with the organization of war, highlighting the establishment of military schools as part of a broader institutionalization characteristic of absolutist states.

• A distinction is made between absolutism and totalitarianism, noting that totalitarianism emerged in the 20th century with regimes like fascism and communism.

• Absolutist states promoted arts such as architecture and music, aiming for a unified cultural language through institutions like the Royal Spanish Academy.

Architectural Doctrines and Academic Influence

• The conversation shifts to architectural doctrines, particularly Vitruvian principles defended by notable figures like Jean François Blondel.

• Academies played a crucial role in critiquing architectural practices; for instance, they evaluated Palladio's work against established norms.

• In England, Palladio was embraced without reservations, contrasting with France where his influence was scrutinized alongside other architects.

Educational Models and Cultural Shifts

• The need to train architects according to these doctrines led to an educational model that became increasingly experimental over time.

• This shift opened up academic circles to diverse influences from Greece and various medieval periods, challenging previously closed systems.

Urban Planning in the Renaissance

• A central theme emerges around urban scale during this period; ideal city models from the Renaissance are discussed as benchmarks for new urban foundations.

• Examples include San Petersburg's establishment under Peter the Great aimed at connecting Russia with Western Europe culturally and intellectually.

Historical Context of Capital Foundations

• Founding new capitals is presented as a significant phenomenon; parallels are drawn between San Petersburg's creation and future projects like Brasília in Brazil.

• The narrative emphasizes how Russia sought to modernize by establishing its capital based on contemporary global standards while addressing its historical isolation.

Synthesis of Modernity in the 20th Century

The Role of Cities in Cultural Synthesis

• The discussion highlights St. Petersburg as a significant city for studying modernity, where various cultural influences converge, including Italian taste, French order, and Dutch rationality.

• The speaker notes that while the topic of urban laboratories from the 15th century is important, it will not be fully developed in this session.

Urban Development under Spanish Dominance

• A distinction is made between different regions within the Spanish Empire, particularly focusing on areas like Mexico and Peru compared to the poorer region of Río de la Plata.

• Jesuit enclaves are mentioned as having urban scale despite not being primarily urban centers; examples include Buenos Aires and Córdoba's Jesuit block.

Jesuits' Influence on Society and Architecture

• The Jesuits held significant power over their followers through a militarized hierarchical structure that influenced architecture, music, and education.

• Their pragmatic approach included promoting printing technology to disseminate ideas contrary to mainstream church doctrines.

Tensions with Monarchical Power

• The Jesuits operated outside state control and were eventually expelled due to their competition with monarchical authority in America.

• This expulsion was part of broader tensions between absolutist regimes and emerging powers like the Jesuits during the 15th century.

Impact of Religious Reformation on Urban Spaces

• The speaker introduces the concept of an "expanded world" shaped by religious reforms impacting urban development.

• Contrasting Protestant practices focused on private faith with Catholic theatrical expressions during Holy Week illustrates differing approaches to religious devotion.

Architectural Representations of Faith

• Catholicism emphasized public displays of faith through architectural designs resembling theatrical stages for worship.

• Buenos Aires exemplifies this expansion with multiple religious orders contributing to a landscape filled with bell towers and domes.

Religious and Secular Power Dynamics

The Role of Religious Authority

• Discussion on the religious power stemming from the concepts of Christ's passion, death, and resurrection.

The Intersection of Church and State

• Examination of how secular authorities claimed divine rights, particularly in absolute monarchies that intertwined state with church.

• King Henry VIII's personal motivations for separating from Rome were tied to his need for a male heir, leading to significant religious conflicts.

Expansion of Secular Power

• The separation from the Roman Church marked a shift in secular power dynamics as European influence expanded globally, illustrated by Spanish and Portuguese territories.

Urban Development Influenced by Colonialism

• Overview of colonial domains established by Spain, Portugal, France, and England across various regions including Africa and the Americas.

• Introduction to St. Petersburg as an urban model reflecting rational order influenced by Dutch canal systems amidst challenging geographical conditions.

Architectural Influence on Urban Planning

• Contrast between Spanish grid layouts in America versus Portuguese designs; Dutch geometric canal systems exemplified in New Amsterdam (later New York).

• Visual representation of urban landscapes showing similarities between Dutch cities and their American counterparts.

The Impact of Religion on Urban Spaces

Emergence of St. Petersburg

• Description of St. Petersburg’s grandeur despite its difficult terrain; it was built with significant effort akin to monumental tasks seen in Paris at that time.

Religious Hegemony in Europe

• Analysis of the Reformation's impact on Catholic dominance within Europe; this led to a decline in followers and expansion into America.

Exploring Ancient Rome through Modern Tools

Utilizing Technology for Historical Exploration

• Proposal to use Google Maps for visualizing ancient Rome’s layout; emphasis on understanding historical geography accurately.

Key Landmarks in Ancient Rome

• Identification of important sites like the Pantheon within ancient Rome’s compact street structure characterized by narrow alleys rather than wide avenues.

Creating Pathways for Pilgrimage

Designing Routes for Faith-Based Journeys

• Importance of establishing multiple pathways connecting key religious sites such as the Colosseum and major basilicas to facilitate pilgrimages.

Infrastructure Needs for Pilgrimage Sites

• Discussion about necessary infrastructure improvements aimed at enhancing accessibility between significant Christian landmarks during holy years.

Understanding the Baroque Period: Key Characteristics

Fluidity in Space

• The concept of spatial fluidity is essential to understanding the Baroque period, contrasting with the Renaissance's emphasis on fixed positions and clear spatial units.

• While a sense of flow persists, there is also an emerging notion of fluidity that characterizes this era.

Architectural Features

• A notable feature of this period is the acceleration in urban design, exemplified by avenues that integrate obelisks as focal points within Rome.

• The use of columns alongside obelisks serves as significant reference points in urban planning, enhancing navigability through the city.

Monumental Connections

• Piazza Barberini emerges as a key site during this period, highlighted by its iconic Triton Fountain and numerous fountains throughout Rome.

• The alignment of major monuments like San Giovanni Laterano and Santa Maria Maggiore illustrates how these structures are interconnected through strategic urban pathways.

Elevation and Access

• The Church of Trinità dei Monti is notably elevated, connected to lower areas via grand staircases designed for dramatic effect.

• This plaza serves as a crucial access point from the north into Rome, emphasizing its importance in religious and civic life.

Historical Context and Design Evolution

• The initial design for Piazza del Popolo included significant religious structures that later evolved under Napoleonic influence, showcasing continuity in architectural ideas.

• An example for analysis includes Piazza Navona, which reflects Baroque ideals through its integration with historical Roman architecture.

Understanding Architectural Scenography

The Nature of Architectural Design

• The discussion begins with the concept of scenographic architecture, emphasizing that it is not based on an original Roman circus structure but rather a highly visual and theatrical environment.

• A comparison is made between this type of architecture and Renaissance central-plan churches, highlighting how the latter maintains its autonomy while the former is deeply interconnected with its surroundings.

• The idea of totality in architectural design is introduced, suggesting that there is a fluidity and completeness to the spaces being created, which contrasts with traditional structures.

City Configuration Concepts

• Reference to Spiro Cov's notion of "assembled cities" versus "configured cities," indicating different approaches to urban planning. This will be further explored in relation to London.

• Mentioned texts such as "City Shaped" and "City Assembled" are noted as essential for understanding these concepts, although they are not part of the required bibliography.

Case Study: Pietro da Cortona's Intervention

• An example from Piazza Naona illustrates a small-scale intervention by Pietro da Cortona, where existing houses were partially demolished to create a new plaza space.

• The effect of this intervention is described as scenographic; it creates a dramatic visual impact when viewed from pedestrian perspectives, particularly through Google Maps imagery.

Urban Space Dynamics

• Discussion on how narrow streets lead into plazas, creating an intimate yet grand experience for pedestrians approaching these spaces.

• The plaza's design serves as mere decoration or backdrop rather than functional space due to imposed facades on property owners' buildings surrounding it.

Architectural Expression and Totality

• Notable features include passages that connect different areas around the plaza, demonstrating complexity in urban layout despite seeming simplicity at first glance.

• Comparison with Renaissance squares shows attempts to harmonize church designs with their surrounding environments through scenographic façades that enhance visual coherence within urban settings.

Conclusion: Broader Implications in Architecture

• Emphasis on creating urban spaces that embody totalizing characteristics reflects broader trends in Italian architecture during this period.

• Transitioning towards French examples indicates ongoing exploration into similar themes across different cultural contexts within architectural history.

Urban Planning and Architectural Development in Paris

Historical Context of Urban Design

• The discussion begins with a reference to Enrique's statue, highlighting the early urban design of Paris around 1670, which featured a medieval layout similar to Rome.

• The focus shifts to a monumental bridge on an island that was not dominated by residential buildings, contrasting it with other bridges that were heavily populated.

• A triangular area was initially designed as a closed system but evolved due to property owners constructing without adherence to the original plan.

Architectural Transformations

• The demolition of structures along one side of the triangle occurred to enhance the façade of the Palace of Justice, indicating changes in architectural intentions over time.

• In the 16th century, architects attempted transformations within public spaces like Place Dauphine, reflecting ongoing efforts for urban improvement during French absolutism.

State vs. Private Architecture

• Projects aimed at demolishing existing constructions emphasized state architecture while leaving private developments largely unregulated, except for maintaining certain aesthetic elements.

• Various projects honoring Louis XIV showcased different architectural visions despite lacking designated land for their realization.

Visual Representations and Impact

• An analysis of historical engravings reveals how earlier representations impacted perceptions of public spaces like Place des Vosges compared to newer designs.

• Differences in height and details among various works illustrate the complexity and individuality within urban assemblies during this period.

Notable Examples and Comparisons

• The discussion transitions to comparing different plazas such as Place Dauphine and Place des Vosges, emphasizing their unique configurations despite shared characteristics.

• Under Louis XIV’s reign, there was a significant push towards uniformity in public spaces; however, variations still existed between individual projects.

Conclusion on Urban Design Philosophy

• The control exerted by Louis XIV over architecture is evident in his designs for important plazas like Place des Victoires, showcasing a blend of regularity and irregularity in planning.

• Observations about urban space reveal how designs often resembled templates cut into existing city layouts rather than organic growth from community needs.

Urban Scenography and Architectural Context

The Role of Scenography in Urban Design

• The concept of scenography is emphasized as a critical requirement in urban design, highlighting the importance of visual aesthetics and spatial configuration.

• Historical examples, such as the case of Mar del Plata and Hotel Provincial, illustrate how architectural elements are framed to create a magnificent urban landscape akin to a grand painting.

• The integration of various structures like theaters, hotels, and casinos within an urban setting is discussed, showcasing how they contribute to the overall scenic quality.

• The idea of creating a grand urban decor rather than focusing on singular buildings re-emerges throughout history, indicating its significance in architectural discourse.

• Visual references provided serve as examples for understanding the approach towards urban space and scenographic composition.

Case Studies: Berlin and Lisbon

• A notable case study from Berlin illustrates attempts to enhance specific sectors through architecture while maintaining formal treatment that respects historical context.

• The reconstruction efforts post World War II in Berlin highlight how changes in texture can drastically alter spatial perception within urban environments.

• Discussion on three significant squares in Berlin reveals contrasts between original designs and their reconstructed forms, emphasizing the impact of materiality on spatial experience.

• An overview of historical developments in Berlin's layout showcases how plazas were designed with distinct geometries that reflect Baroque influences but may lose essence if not properly executed.

• The differences between reconstructed spaces are analyzed, stressing that modifications can lead to a loss of intended character despite geometric similarities.

Architectural Composition vs. Spatial Experience

• Emphasis is placed on understanding Baroque architecture not merely as geometric planning but as an expression of spatial composition that engages users meaningfully.

• Examples from post-war reconstructions illustrate failures when attempting to replicate Baroque principles without considering contextual integrity or spatial fluidity.

• Citybell's use of trident geometry reflects historical planning methods but results in outcomes more akin to garden designs than grand urban compositions typical of Baroque ideals.

• A critique is presented regarding modern interpretations that misapply Baroque concepts without grasping their foundational principles related to space and experience.

• Concluding thoughts suggest many contemporary projects fail by superficially adopting geometric patterns without achieving true compositional depth.

Transitioning to Practical Applications

• A shift towards practical applications indicates readiness for hands-on exploration following theoretical discussions about scenography and architectural integrity.