"Obras... que hazer para entretenerse". La arquitectura en la cultura nobiliario-cortesana del Siglo de Oro: a propósito del marqués de Velada y Francisco de Mora

Abstract

This article focuses on the significant of Architecture in the cultural habits of the Court nobility in the Spanish Golden Age. The Marquis of Velada epitomizes the type of nobleman virtuoso, very fond of architecture, in friendly terms with the king's architects -for instance, with Francisco de Mora- and deeply involved, as an enthusiastic patron, in the interesting cultural projects that might arise. This aristocracy's penchant for architecture shows to what extent the elites of the time appreciated this art and enjoyed its practise. A remarkable number of the noblemen close to the king considered architecture and other scientific studies to be not only an indispensable element of their education and training as courtiers in the service of the Spanish Crown, but also a substantial part of their learning and a source of intellectual pleasure.