Notes on Spanish Colonial Architecture in the Philippines
Chapter 1: Introduction
Miguel Lopez de Legaspi and the Philippines:
In 1565, Miguel Lopez de Legaspi claimed the Philippine Islands for Spain.
Initially established settlements in Cebu and Panay before moving to Luzon.
Aimed to conquer Manila, a significant Muslim settlement.
Foundation and Development of Manila:
In 1571, captured Manila, initiating reconstruction of a destroyed settlement.
Built defenses: spiked log palisade, ecclesiastical, civic, and secular structures using wood, bamboo, and thatch.
Eventually transitioned to stone for more durable structures.
Intramuros, a Spanish walled city, emerged as a key urban center covering less than a mile.
Following a 1583 fire, a decree mandated that all new buildings must be stone and tile.
Utilized volcanic tuff in Guadalupe Makati for stone resources.
Earthquake and Architecture:
A devastating earthquake in 1645 led to the introduction of architectura mestiza, blending wood and stone for earthquake resilience.
Used wooden pegs and dovetail joints instead of nails for flexibility.
Urban Planning:
Spaniards controlled native settlements, consolidating them into regulated towns via a program called Reduction.
Natives faced resettlement policies; some resisted, others settled under church influences (Bajo De Las Campanas).
The 1573 royal ordinance established urban planning guidelines, including a main plaza (Plaza Mayor) surrounded by key buildings.
Spanish Building Program:
Focused on creating forts, churches, government buildings, and civic infrastructure to establish colonial power.
Buildings reflected European models to exhibit technological superiority.
Chinese labor was often employed under the Pacquiao system for construction.
Tax system Polo y Servicio required males to work for public constructions annually, sustaining labor supply.
Key defenses: Intramuros, Fuerza De San Pedro in Cebu, Fuerza De Nuestra Senora Del Pilar in Sambuanga.
Chapter 2: Main Church Structure
Fortress Architecture:
Designed using the bastion system similar to medieval Europe.
Characterized by polygonal walls, bastions at corners, and thick cortinas (3-10 m walls).
Artillery placements: stone landings (casamatas) on walls overlooking the moat (fosso).
Churches sometimes served defensive roles with bell towers as lookout posts.
Ecclesiastical Structures:
Built by religious orders in newly established parishes, often included cemeteries and chapels.
Earliest churches were simple, later evolved to adobe, brick, or stone with intricate designs influenced by various architectural styles (Gothic, Baroque, etc.).
Local artisans introduced indigenous motifs into designs, creating a unique aesthetic combination.
Interior Layout:
Basic plans remained rectangular or cruciform; notable deviations existed.
Features: altar mayor (main altar), pulpito (pulpit), altares menores (side altars).
Choir loft (corro) housed performers; worshippers often stood or kneeling, with special seating for elites.
Convento served multiple functions adjacent to churches, including living spaces for clergy and parish records.
Chapter 3: Inspired Church
Nineteenth-Century Changes:
Transitioned to new cemeteries outside church grounds for health reforms.
San Agustin Church is a notable example of baroque architecture with a barrel vault and trompe l'oeil technique.
Powai Church showed Southeast Asian architectural influence and earthquake resilience with formidable designs.
Various Architectural Styles:
The diversity in church styles reflects regional influences and colonial interactions.
Examples like Tumawini church displayed advancing brickwork techniques.
Different orders (Franciscans, Dominicans) contributed unique stylistic interpretations from Renaissance to Neoclassic designs.
Chapter 4: Spanish Bridge
Urban Expansion:
By the late nineteenth century, urban sprawl led to commercial districts for Chinese traders (Parian).
Infrastructure improvements included railways, roads, bridges, and advanced service systems.
Key Engineering Projects:
Puente De Espana and other bridges: examples of engineering finesse with stone and iron structures.
Built rapid urban transport systems to stimulate economic growth and industry.
Chapter 5: Conclusion
Cultural Legacy of Spanish Rule:
Development of commercial buildings and theaters reflected the fusion of local and colonial culture.
Adaptation of traditional structures into modern forms like Bahaynabato showcased changing social dynamics.
Spanish colonial legacy deeply embedded in Philippine architecture, establishing identity and social hierarchy, lasting over three centuries until the late 19th century.