Miguel Fisac and University Architecture in Santiago de Compostela. University Residence La Estila and the Institute of Agrobiological Research

Abstract

This article not only aims to review the early work of the architect Miguel Fisac (1913-2006), but also to understand the impact he had on the cultural and urban development of Santiago de Compostela. Both Miguel Fisac and Santiago de Compostela are fundamental historical figures that require greater critical attention in the literature to appreciate the role they played in the political, ideological, and cultural development of Francoism. Miguel Fisac is one of the architects who, theoretically and practically, favoured the introduction of modernity into Spanish architecture after the Civil War.

From a practical point of view, two of the buildings he designed in his early years as an architect were decisive for the growth of Santiago de Compostela, not only because of the circumstances of the time, but also due to their relevance to urban planning, and to the scientific and university settings. These are the University Residence La Estila (1947/1948), that would boost the urban makeup of the northern part of the city; and the Institute of Agrobiological Research (1952), a building typology devoted to research within the framework of a university campus.