One of the most interesting things I learned from the lecture this week is the way that Aztec ceremonies and culture influenced the way cathedrals and churches were designed in Mexico. To appeal to the Indian congregations, the churches incorporated an outdoor space or "convento" for worship since that was an important aspect of Aztec religious practice. This atrium was used for outdoor services to create familiarity and continuity for the converted Indians.
What really struck me was how this atrium idea in the churches of Mexico can be attributed to the Christian church's desire to convert Indians to christianity by creating a uniquely Aztec environment. It is in this nexus of cultures that such a lovely and useful feature of church architecture is born.
I love the picture you posted. I was looking for examples while reading so I could get a visual image of what I was reading about. You explanation helped a little because of the 3 different types of churches that incorporated Aztec religion I was less sure of the convento. Thanks!!
ReplyDeleteI also enjoyed seeing the Aztec influence on Spanish Architecture in the new world. I found many of the churches and cathedrals breathe taking with their intricate designs and open plans. The picture you posted is really beautiful, it really is a good example!
ReplyDeleteI think outdoor worship must have posed practical problems for the Christians that the Aztecs didn't face. One cannot pray or have a ritual outdoors when it is raining or very windy. The Aztecs probably tied their rites to the seasons, having outdoor gatherings only during the non-rainy season. Christianity, being a religion not tied to a land or its seasons, could not afford the luxury. Mass has be every Sunday, Christmas in December, Easter in March/April. The hymns have to be sung from psalm books which could fly off in a strong wind, and gospel music does not go well with a howling wind. I think the Mexican Church solved the second problem for outdoor worship by surrounding the open space with the building, effectively creating a windbreak. Rain would still be a problem.
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