What is architectural history? What is its purpose?

This lecture delves into the origins and purpose of architectural history, exploring the etymology of the term 'history' and the contrasting approaches of Herodotus and Thucydides. It discusses the use of historical precedents in architecture, exemplified by Tempio Malatestiano and the Arch of Augustus. The presentation also covers the works of influential figures like Leon Battista Alberti, Sebastiano Serlio, and Heinrich Wölfflin, emphasizing the importance of historical analysis in architectural practice. Additionally, it examines the contributions of Pier Vittorio Aureli and Alois Riegl to the field, shedding light on the structural analysis and 'Kunstwollen' concepts.