The term Churrigueresque is used to classify the most
elaborate and ornamental style of Spanish architecture from 1675 to 1750. The term
was named after the Churriguera family. Jose Benito de Churriguera was an
architect and sculptor from Madrid. Although the style was named after the
Churriguera family, the origins of this style can be traced back to Alonso
Cano. He was a painter and sculptor and the true pioneer of the highly ornamental
style of Spanish art of the 17th century. He is responsible for the design
the façade of the cathedral at Granada in 1667.
Example of an Estipite Column
The architects from this style used architectural forms to
create dramatic contrasts of lines and surfaces. In addition to the obvious
lavish ornamentation, the use of broken pediments, undulating cornices,
reversed volutes, and balustrades, create a very theatrical surface. The Churrigueresque column, also known as the
estipite, the shape of an inverted triangle. This feature became the central
element in this style. The façade of the cathedral at Murcia is a great example
of this style.
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