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Sep 8, 1296
Florence Cathedral’s dome, by Brunelleschi (1420)
The dome of Florence Cathedral, designed by Brunelleschi between 1420 and 1434, is an icon of the Renaissance. With a diameter of 45 meters, it innovated in its construction by using a double structure and a spiral brick placement system, avoiding the use of traditional scaffolding. Its completion marked a milestone in architecture. -
Period: 1490 to 1527
Renaissance
The Renaissance was a cultural revival in Europe from the 14th to the 17th century, centered on a renewed interest in ancient Greek and Roman art, literature, and ideas. Key features include humanism, a focus on human potential; advancements in art, science, and literature; and the rise of individualism. Major figures include Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Galileo. It marked the transition from the medieval era to the modern world. -
1499
Pietá, by Michelangelo Buonarroti (1498)
Michelangelo's Pietà, sculpted in 1498, represents the Virgin Mary holding the body of Jesus after the crucifixion. This masterpiece, made of marble, stands out for its impressive realism and the delicacy of the figures. The composition reflects a deep emotion and a harmonic balance, making it a symbol of the Renaissance. La Pietà is located in St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican and is considered one of the most important works in the history of art. -
1509
The defeat of the Spanish Armada by England
The defeat of the Spanish Navy in 1588 was a failed attempt by Philip II to invade England and restore Catholicism. The fleet, composed of about 130 ships, suffered logistical problems and was surpassed by the naval strategy of the English. This defeat weakened Spain and consolidated England as a naval power. -
1509
The school of Athens, by Raphael Sanzio (1509)
"The school of Athens" is a fresco painted by Raphael Sanzio between 1509 and 1511 in the Estancia de la Signatura of the Vatican. This masterpiece of the Renaissance represents the great philosophers and thinkers of antiquity, such as Plato and Aristotle, in a grandiose architectural environment. The composition stands out for its perspective, the use of color and symmetry, symbolizing the harmony between philosophy and art. It is an icon of the Renaissance, celebrating knowledge and wisdom. -
Period: 1520 to 1521
The revolt of the Comuneros in Castilla
The Revolt of the Comuneros (1520-1521) was a popular uprising in Castile against King Charles I of Spain. It was fueled by resentment over high taxes, foreign influence in the Spanish court, and social inequality. The rebels, called the “Comuneros,” sought greater local control and reforms. However, after initial successes, the revolt was crushed by Charles’s forces at the Battle of Villalar in 1521, leading to the execution of its leaders and the reinforcement of royal authority. -
Period: 1568 to 1571
The rebellion of the Alpujarras
The Rebellion of the Alpujarras was an uprising by the Moriscos in southern Spain, fueled by religious persecution, heavy taxation, and cultural oppression under King Philip II. The Moriscos, former Muslims forced to convert to Christianity, revolted to preserve their identity. Despite initial successes, the rebellion was crushed by Spanish forces, and the Moriscos were forcibly relocated, marking the decline of their presence in Spain. -
Period: 1568 to
The Eighty Years War
The Eighty Years’ War was a conflict between the Dutch provinces and Spain, driven by religious, economic, and political tensions. The Dutch sought independence from Spanish rule, especially as Protestantism grew in the Netherlands. The war ended with the Treaty of Westphalia in 1648, recognizing the independence of the Dutch Republic and marking the decline of Spanish power in Europe. -
Period: to
Baroque art
Baroque art, from the late 16th to early 18th century, is known for its dramatic use of light, intense emotion, movement, and grandeur. It aimed to engage viewers emotionally and often conveyed religious themes, particularly during the Catholic Counter-Reformation. Key artists include Caravaggio, Rembrandt, and Bernini. -
Apollo and Daphne, by Bernini
“Apollo and Daphne,” sculpted by Bernini between 1622 and 1625, captures the moment Daphne transforms into a laurel tree to escape Apollo. Renowned for its dynamic movement and intricate detail, the sculpture exemplifies Baroque art, highlighting Bernini’s mastery of emotion and form. -
Saint Peter’s square project by Bernini
Saint Peter’s Square, designed by Bernini (1656-1667), features a semi-circular colonnade symbolizing the Church’s embrace, a central Egyptian obelisk, and an elliptical shape for large gatherings. The design highlights both the welcoming and authoritative nature of the Church, creating a dramatic connection with Saint Peter’s Basilica. -
The spinners, by Velázquez
“The Spinners” (Las Hilanderas) by Diego Velázquez (c. 1657) depicts women weaving in a workshop, with a mythological reference to the story of Arachne and Athena. The painting combines realistic detail with symbolic depth, showcasing Velázquez’s mastery of light, texture, and composition. It explores themes of skill, rivalry, and divine power. -
Period: to
Neoclassical art
Neoclassical art, emerging in the mid-18th century, revived the simplicity and ideals of ancient Greek and Roman art. It emphasized clean lines, symmetry, and moral themes such as heroism and virtue, reflecting Enlightenment values of reason and logic. Key artists like Jacques-Louis David and Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres focused on idealized human figures and classical subjects. The style extended to sculpture and architecture, influencing works by Antonio Canova and others. -
Oath of the Horatii, by Jacques- Louis David
“The Oath of the Horatii” (1784) by Jacques-Louis David depicts three Roman brothers swearing to defend Rome, symbolizing loyalty, sacrifice, and patriotism. The strong, angular composition contrasts the brothers’ determination with the emotional sorrow of the women in the background, emphasizing the cost of war. The painting reflects Neoclassical ideals of duty and civic virtue. -
Carlos IV of Spain and bis family, by Francisco De Goya
“Carlos IV of Spain and His Family” (1800) by Francisco de Goya portrays the Spanish royal family with realism, highlighting their less flattering features and indifferent expressions. The composition contrasts with traditional royal portraits, subtly critiquing the monarchy’s complacency and decline during a period of political instability.