Contributions of Italian Franciscan Missionaries to the architectonic typology of Chiloe churches' towers-façades

Abstract

Evangelization has been important in the development of architecture. It has even defined rites, spaces and compositional elements that have become part of the towns' local identity. In Chiloe, where from the seventeenth century onwards and as a result of the circular mission of Jesuits, tower-façades were defined, among other elements. Today, they are part of the local identity and an icon of the archipelago's cultural landscape. While uncertain in its origins (allegedly a contribution by Jesuits), it was Italian Franciscan Missionaries who consolidated and disseminated the style. These players made a considerable contribution to architecture in Chiloe and in the rest of the country. Further research of these facts will support anchoring Chiloe's lifestyle to its own history.