Spanish Colonial architecture

High school (ages 12+)
Art & Creativity

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/spanish-colonial-architecture

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the architectural fusion?A blend of European styles (Renaissance, Baroque) with indigenous materials and craftsmanship
2. What is the UNESCO recognition?Numerous Spanish Colonial urban centers and structures are designated World Heritage Sites
3. Why did Spanish towns have a central plaza?The Laws of the Indies said towns should be built in a grid with a plaza in the middle, so people could see the church and government buildings and feel organized.
4. How did Spanish builders use local materials?They used stone, timber, adobe, and even coquina, a shell limestone, to make strong walls that could stand in hot or cold climates.

Laws of the Indies: A comprehensive set of ordinances issued by the Spanish Crown for the government and administration of its colonies.
Syncretism: The merging of different religions, cultures, or schools of thought, often seen in art and architecture.
Urbanism: The study of cities and the process of urban development, including planning and social aspects.