Paolo Portoghesi's Legacy: Geoarchitecture and Historical Continuity

Paolo Portoghesi (Rome, 1931 – Calcata, 2023) was an architect and historian who pioneered 'geoarchitecture,' seeking a deep connection between architecture and the earth. He aimed to create a 'critical history' by merging historical research with architectural practice, inspired by Francesco Borromini and Bruno Zevi. His key works include the Strada Novissima at the 1980 Venice Architecture Biennale, the Mosque of Rome, and housing projects in Casale di Gregna and Rome's SDO. Portoghesi emphasized learning from nature and history, collecting organic objects like shells and corals to demonstrate architecture's earthly origins. He wrote extensively, including 'Attualità di Borromini' (2021) and 'Geoarchitettura,' and edited the journal 'Spazio.' His methodology involved constant experimentation, blending Baroque essence with contemporary forms, and building temporal bridges between masters like Borromini, Gaudí, Wright, and Ridolfi. Portoghesi's legacy lies in his 'operative history' approach, where past examples serve as paradigms for future creation. He died in Calcata in 2023.