Colonial Urban Planning in the Americas
Urban Planning in Colonial Americas
In the 16th century, the colonization of the Americas began with the founding of new towns laid out in a grid pattern. In 1573, the Council of the Indies formulated general rules for founding cities in America, emphasizing even development and land distribution.
To found a city, a suitable site with fertile land, a conducive climate, access to fresh water, and building materials was necessary. A founder would establish the central square, from which land distribution and city functions were organized.
Colonial Mexico
Architectural Periods
- Convents Fortaleza – 16th Century (First Half)
- Great Cathedrals – 16th Century (Second Half)
- Parish Churches – 17th-18th Centuries
- Residential Architecture – 17th-18th Centuries
- Civil Architecture
Convents Fortaleza
Convents served as centers for both colonization and evangelization. They had missionary, teaching, and spiritual roles. Walled for protection, they included a temple, atrium, open chapels, and other features.
- Temple: Gothic-influenced interior space.
- Open Chapels: Located next to the temple, used for specific functions.
- Chapels: Situated at the corners of the convent, covered by domes.
- Atrium: A large patio housing the indigenous population.
- Water Source or Cross: Located in the center of the atrium.
Colonial Brazil
Sugar-Coffee Period
Fortified towns on the coast focused on trade, sugar, and coffee production. These towns had a spontaneous layout with a long main street for commercial activities, a main square, a harbor, and chafaris (fountains) as meeting points.
Example: San Salvador – Divided into high (residential) and low (trade and port) zones, unified by trade activities.
Architectural Features
Religious architecture was prominent, featuring churches with a single nave and transept, no dome, and made of wood or stone. Exteriors were expressive and used color.
Colonial Architecture in Cuzco (Peru)
Materials used included thatch, mud, and brick. Buildings were limited to two stories due to seismic activity. Church facades featured elaborate details, organic poly-lobed arches, carvings, and color. Moorish and Spanish architectural influences were evident.
Example: Cathedral of Cuzco – A basilica without a transept, featuring three naves and a central altarpiece.