The Renaissance Palaces: Architecture and Daily Life

This lecture delves into the architecture of the Italian Renaissance palaces, focusing on the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries. The instructor discusses the innovative features of these palaces, such as the geometric precision and the symbolic importance of the courtyard. Through examples like the Palazzo Medici in Florence, the lecture explores how these palaces served as complex devices combining architectural, political, and ceremonial functions. The discussion extends to the distribution of spaces within the palaces, highlighting the hierarchical access system and the ceremonial stairs. The lecture also touches upon the technological advancements in these palaces, like smokeless chimneys and improved kitchen arrangements. Furthermore, the instructor reflects on the ideal cities depicted in Renaissance paintings and the intricate relationship between modernity and historical depth in architectural design.