Paper short abstract:

This communication will analyse the existing theories on the problematic of the origins of elliptical plans in Portuguese religious architecture. By analysing several case studies, it is expected the recognition of eventual misunderstandings, strengthening other aspects and pointing new directions.

Paper long abstract:

The elliptical plan used in several religious buildings in the 17th and 18th centuries is considered one of the great exponents of Baroque architecture. Churches and chapels with these characteristics indeed exist in the space of Portuguese cultural influence, having been studied by several scholars under multiple aspects. In fact, this kind of planimetry in some Brazilian churches is still subject of numerous studies. Despite these studies, the question on the origins of elliptical plan in Portuguese religious architecture remains notoriously inconclusive: from the influences directly suffered from the Papal basilica of Saint Peter in the Vatican until the affiliations in the (frequently mentioned) images of Augsburg representing churches with elliptical plans, and still mentioning the important role of architect Nicolau Nasoni, several theories have been carefully followed, promoting a vast debate in academic world.

This communication intends to analyse existing theories on the problematic of the origins of elliptical plan in Portuguese religious architecture, pointing also some new directions by analysing several case studies in Brazil and Portugal, as well as in Italy, Spain and Central-Europe. By comparing the existing theories along with other topics - like for instance the use of polygonal oblong plans in religious buildings -, it is expected to accomplish a step forward in the knowledge on this thematic, by recognizing some eventual misunderstandings, by strengthening some specific aspects, and by pointing new directions of investigation.