The *colonial house* is a type of housing that developed during the colonial period in Latin America, particularly in the 16th to 19th centuries, when European powers, such as Spain and Portugal, established colonies on the continent. This architectural style combines European influences with adaptations to local conditions, creating a unique aesthetic that is still preserved in many Latin American countries. ### Features of the Colonial House: 1. **Central Patio**: The most prominent feature of the colonial house is the *central patio* or *interior patio*, which serves as the heart of the house. An open space is common, surrounded by the rooms, and often adorned with plants, water features, or gardens. In some cases, the patio also has a corridor or gallery with columns surrounding it. 2. **Horrifying Walls and Local Materials**: The walls of colonial houses are often thick, built from local materials such as adobe, stone, or brick. This design provided thermal insulation, essential in hot climates. 3. **High ceilings and wooden roofs**: Ceilings are generally high and often have exposed wooden beams. In many colonial houses, the roof is covered with clay tiles or glazed tiles, which are materials suitable for the hot and dry climate of many colonized regions. 4. **Windows and balconies made of iron or wood**: Windows are usually large, with iron or wooden grilles, and sometimes have decorative balconies. These elements not only serve an aesthetic function, but also allow air circulation, which is important in hot climates. 5. **Decorative elements**: Colonial houses are frequently adorned with ornamental details, such as moldings, arches, columns and baseboards. In many colonial cities, artistic elements can also be seen in mosaic floors, carved wooden doors or wrought iron railings. 6. **Functional layout**: Colonial houses have a functional and hierarchical layout. The ground floor was usually used for service areas, such as the kitchen and servants' quarters, while the upper floor was used for more private areas, such as the family's master bedrooms. 7. **Symmetry and balance**: Colonial house designs often follow principles of symmetry and balance, with an organized and harmonious layout. This reflects the influences of the European Renaissance and Baroque, the predominant styles in art and architecture of the time. ### Influences and variations: - **Spanish style**: In areas where Spanish influence predominated, colonial houses often display details of the Spanish Renaissance and Baroque, with elements such as interior patios, wooden balconies, and religious decoration. - **Portuguese style**: In Brazil and other regions colonized by Portugal, colonial houses have similar characteristics, but with some differences in ornamental details, especially in Brazilian cities, where the Brazilian Baroque style merged with local traditions. . - **Local variations**: In other parts of Latin America, such as Mexico, Peru, Cuba and Colombia, colonial also features indigenous influences and African styles, resulting in a unique mix of European and local elements. For example, in some regions of Mexico, the use of ceramic *mosaics* is very characteristic. ### Iconic examples: - **Mexico City**: Many buildings in the historic center, such as the Casa de los Condes de Miravalle, display the elegance of the colonial style. - **Cartagena, Colombia**: The walled city of Cartagena is a prominent example of colonial architecture, with its colorful houses and interior courtyards. - **Havana, Cuba**: The colonial houses of Old Havana, with their vibrantly colored facades and wrought iron balconies, are a clear reflection of this style. Colonial houses are not only representative of a historical era, but also remain an integral part of the cultural and architectural heritage of many Latin American countries, preserved and adapted to modern needs.