Special Topics: Learning from Palladio

Abstract

The course offers an introduction to the built and architectural theoretical work of Andrea Palladio and asks whether we can still learn something from him for contemporary formal as well as methodological issues.

Objective

The learning and practice of scientific work, the acquisition of architectural historical knowledge and the acquisition of skills to reflect this on contemporary issues and one's own design work.

Content

Born in Padua in 1508 as Pietro della Gondola into humble circumstances, Andrea Palladio can be considered the most influential architect of all time. The combination of craft training (as a stonemason) and a congenial, progressive relationship to the ancient model made him the most sought-after architect of the late Renaissance during his lifetime. His city palaces, villas and sacred buildings, built in the Veneto between 1540 and 1580, as well as his richly illustrated work on architectural theory, the Quattro libri dell'architettura, had a worldwide impact that continues to this day. After an introduction to the origins of Palladio and the historical situation at the middle of the 16th century, individual, selected buildings and texts will be the focus of the respective presentation and joint analysis. The seminar thus provides an overview of the life and work of Palladio. The central question, however, is whether architects today can still learn something from Palladio. At the same time, academic work is to be learned and practiced, in particular the selection, elaboration and limitation of a specific topic and its appropriate presentation in speech and writing.

Resources