Spanish Renaissance architecture

Spanish Renaissance architecture emerged in the late 15th century as Renaissance ideals reached Spain, blending with existing Gothic forms. Rooted in Renaissance humanism and a renewed interest in Classical architecture,^[1] the style became distinguished by a synthesis of Gothic and Italian Renaissance elements. The style is a creation of uniquely Spanish phases notable because of both rich ornamentation and restrained minimalism.^[2] The period saw contributions from the patronage of noble families, notably the House of Mendoza, and architects like Lorenzo Vázquez de Segovia, whose works in places like the Colegio Mayor Santa Cruz [es] in Valladolid, incorporated Tuscan-Roman motifs alongside Gothic forms.^[2]

In the northern regions, Italian influences expanded, while local architectural styles (or schools) combined French, Flemish and Lombard styles in highly ornamental designs, seen in landmarks such as the façade of the Universidad de Salamanca.^[2] The distinctive Plateresque style also emerged, with decorative forms mimicking silversmith techniques.^[3] Meanwhile, the integration of Islamic decorative methods with Gothic structures developed into the Mudéjar style, particularly in Andalusia, Aragón, and Castile.^[2]

During the reign of Philip II of Spain (r. 1556–1589), Renaissance influence spread across Spain, aided by architecture treatises from famous architects, including Vitruvius, Leon Battista Alberti, Sebastiano Serlio, Andrea Palladio, Giacomo Barozzi da Vignola and Diego de Sagredo [es], among others.^[1] Spanish Renaissance architecture thus became defined by an eclectic fusion of local and imported influences, shaping an architectural identity that resonated across the Iberian Peninsula.^[2]