João de Castilho Facts for Kids

Quick facts for kids João de Castilho

Born	1470
Died	1552
Nationality	Portuguese
Known for	Architecture
Movement	Renaissance

João de Castilho (born around 1470, died around 1552) was a very important architect. He was born in Cantabria, which is now part of Spain. Most of his amazing work was done in Portugal.

João de Castilho is known as one of the greatest Portuguese architects of the 1500s. He helped design many buildings that are now World Heritage Sites. This means they are special places recognized by UNESCO for their importance to everyone.

He started his career learning the Gothic style. This style uses pointed arches and tall, thin structures. Later, he played a big part in bringing the Renaissance style to Portugal. The Renaissance style used ideas from ancient Greek and Roman buildings, like columns and domes.

João de Castilho helped change the job of a "master mason" (a skilled builder from medieval times) into what we now call an "architect." This new role was seen as more important and respected.

He worked on many famous buildings. Five of them are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Two of the most famous are the Jerónimos Monastery and the Convent of Christ. He also helped with the Alcobaça Monastery, the Batalha Monastery, and the Mazagão Fortress (now in Morocco).

His Amazing Career
- Working on Famous Monasteries
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His Amazing Career

João de Castilho started his work in Spain. He helped build the Burgos Cathedral and the Seville Cathedral. These were big projects for a young architect.

Around 1509, he moved to Portugal. He was invited by the Archbishop of Braga to work on the chapel of the Braga Cathedral.

After that, he worked on the Church of São João Baptista in Vila do Conde. This city was busy with trade, so it was a good place for an architect to find work.

Working on Famous Monasteries

From Vila do Conde, João de Castilho began working at the Convent of Christ in Tomar. He designed the beautiful main gate and entrance to the church there. His work was so good that he was put in charge of all building projects at the Convent. He kept this job until he died.

In 1517, he took over as the main architect for the Jerónimos Monastery. Here, he designed the incredible southern entrance. This entrance is famous for its detailed and ornate style.

João de Castilho worked on five places that are now World Heritage Sites: