Latin America is a land of architectural diversity, where history, culture, and creativity converge. From pre-Columbian temples and Inca stonework to Spanish colonial cathedrals, Portuguese towns, and vibrant Caribbean streets, the region tells centuries of stories. Wander the cobblestone streets of Oaxaca, Antigua, Cartagena, Ouro Preto, Arequipa, and explore colonial legacies in Córdoba and Santiago.The 20th century brought modernist innovations, from Brasília’s landmarks to Mexico City’s Art Deco, offering travellers a vibrant tapestry of history, culture, and evolving architecture.
- Hybrid (F2F & Online simultaneously)
- Introduction to Latin American Architecture: Overview of Latin America’s cultural and architectural diversity, including the influence of Indigenous, European, African, and Asian tradition.
- Pre-Columbian and Indigenous Architecture: Temples, pyramids, and stonework of the region’s most prominent ancient civilisations.
- Spanish and Portuguese Colonial Towns: Churches, plazas, and cobblestone streets. Key destinations include Oaxaca & Puebla (Mexico), Antigua (Guatemala), Havana (Cuba), as well as South American highlights such as Cartagena (Colombia), Ouro Preto (Brazil), Arequipa (Peru), Quito (Ecuador). Explore Jesuit and colonial legacies in Córdoba & Salta (Argentina), Santiago (Chile), Paramaribo (Suriname).
- Modernism and Contemporary Architecture: 20th-century innovations and modernist movements, including iconic projects such as Brasília (Oscar Niemeyer), Mexico City’s Art Deco and modernist buildings.
By the end of this course, students should be able to:
- Identify key architectural styles across Latin America, including pre-Columbian, colonial, and contemporary forms.
- Understand the cultural and historical stories behind pre-Columbian, colonial, and contemporary architecture.
- Recognise major architectural landmarks and historic cities, from colonial towns to modernist masterpieces.
