Dumbarton Oaks
Pre-Columbian Studies

Public Lecture

Jean-Pierre Protzen, University of California, Berkeley

Inca Architecture: Building a World

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Machu Picchu

Thursday, October 25th 2007
5:30 P.M. in the Music Room of Dumbarton Oaks
1703 32nd Street, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20007

Illustrated

The lecture is open to the public without charge.
For additional information: pre-columbian@doaks.org or 202-339-6440.

Abstract
In the expansion of their power base, the Incas launched a massive construction program consisting mostly of works of infrastructure: roads, bridges, agricultural terraces, reservoirs, irrigation canals, and storage facilities. In parallel, the Incas also built new administrative centers, temples, and settlements. In all their construction work, the Incas demonstrated a deep appreciation of their environment. Their works reveal a thorough understanding of questions of hydrology, geomorphology, and microclimate as well as an appreciation of the aesthetic values of the landscape. This lecture will explore the design and planning practices of the Incas.


About the Speaker
Jean-Pierre Protzen is Professor of the Graduate School (Architecture) at the University of California, Berkeley. Professor Protzen is author of Inca Architecture and Construction at Ollantaytambo and several other publications on design theory and methods, Inca architecture, and construction techniques. Honors include research fellowships from the Swiss National Science Foundation and the University of California, and an International Architecture Book Award from the American Institute of Architects. Professor Protzen teaches courses on design theories and methods, logics of design, and research methods. Current research interests include design, planning, and construction principles of ancient civilizations, particularly Pre-Columbian South America. Recent field projects have concerned the architecture and construction of Tiwanaku in Bolivia and Tambo Colorado in Peru.


Directions to the Music Room at Dumbarton Oaks
Dumbarton Oaks is located at 1703 32nd Street, NW in Washington, D.C. Please enter through the front entrance of the Main Building, and proceed down the hall where you will be guided into the Music Room. For further information or to receive an electronic map of the grounds, please contact Emily Gulick (gulicke@doaks.org; (202)339-6440). We look forward to seeing you there!