Main Stages in the Formation of the Theory of Architecture of the Spanish Renaissance (Based on Treatises of the 16th–17th centuries)

The Spanish treatises of the 16th — early 17th century on the theory of architecture are reviewed in the context of design evolution, stylistic features of text and visual material, sources of theoretical thought of predecessors that influenced the creative rethinking of architecture, generation of new original ideas and the determination of their place in the evolution of the architectural views of the Renaissance as a whole. The appeal to antiquity as a treasury of humanistic values was typical for the Spanish culture of the 16th century. The Spanish theorists interpreted the focus on the classical tradition in architecture as the embodiment of the ideas of Christian architecture, the source of which was the theoretical legacy of the Italian Renaissance. The main stages in the formation of the theory of architecture of the Spanish Renaissance are reflected in the works of Diego de Sagredo “The Medidas del Romano” (1526), Juan de Arfe “Measurements for architecture and sculpture” (1564), Fray Lorenzo de san Nicolás “Art use of architecture” (1639). The authors of the treatises tell about the benefits and the need for study, use the construction and artistic experience of antiquity, and provide a didactic overview of the most significant theoretical works of their predecessors with practical tips for building professional skills. In general, the Vitruvian style as the structural basis of classicism was very popular in Spain during Renaissance, and its components serve as the fundamental method of practical use at each stage of the development of architecture.