An architectural journey: historic and modern healthcare architecture
Summer is the best time to travel and at ENERO Arquitectura we want to take you with us to visit some of the icons of healthcare architecture on our unique world tour.
Ever since English aristocrats began their Grand Tour during the 17th century to discover the classical and Renaissance art of Italy, the trip has become a journey of discovery that leads to knowledge and surprises.
Over the years, we have highlighted both historical and modern healthcare architecture projects in the ENERO Arquitectura blog, so we have the perfect excuse to embark on this journey and discover other examples in more depth.
THE EPIDAURUS SANCTUARY: THE BIRTH OF A CURE
Our first stop takes us back to Ancient Greece, to a place where healthcare had an almost sacred dimension: the Sanctuary of Epidaurus. Located in the north-eastern Peloponnese, this site is not only a healthcare complex, but a testimony to the ancient Greeks’ understanding of health and wellbeing.
The Sanctuary of Epidaurus, also known as the Asclepieion, was built in honour of Asclepius, the god of medicine. This healing centre dates back to the 4th century BCE and was famous throughout the ancient world. The complex was located in an advantageous natural environment, surrounded by mountains and greenery, which contributed to the sense of tranquillity and wellbeing sought for the patients.
The Sanctuary not only offered medical treatment, but also combined religious and psychological elements. Patients participated in rituals, prayers and sacrifices to Asclepius, in the hope of receiving revelatory dreams that would help them to heal. Sleep therapy, known as incubatio, was central to this sanctuary. Patients slept in the temple of Asclepius, and it was believed that the god sent them dreams with explanations about their treatments.
In addition to the temple, the complex included sports facilities, thermal baths and a theatre, reflecting a holistic understanding of health integrating physical, mental and spiritual wellbeing. The theatre of Epidaurus, famous for its exceptional acoustics, not only provided entertainment, but also formed a part of therapy, as theatre was believed to have healing properties.
The architectural design of the Sanctuary of Epidaurus also deserves special mention. The structures were arranged to maximise exposure to natural light and ventilation, which we now recognise as essential for a healthy healing environment. The thermal facilities used natural sources of hot and cold water, taking advantage of the curative properties of the mineral waters.
The Sanctuary of Epidaurus is not only a monument to ancient medicine, but also a forerunner of the modern idea of a wellness centre. Its holistic approach, combining medical treatment, physical activity, leisure and spiritual practices, is still relevant in contemporary healthcare architecture. The influence of Epidaurus can be seen in the evolution of hospitals throughout history, where the connection to nature and the importance of the physical environment continue to be key elements in the design of healing spaces.
OSPEDALE MAGGIORE: A RENAISSANCE ICON IN MILAN
Our next stop takes us to the heart of Italy, to the vibrant city of Milan, where the Ospedale Maggiore, also known as Ca’ Granda, is located. This hospital, founded in 1456 by Duke Francesco Sforza, is one of the first examples of Renaissance hospitals and represents a milestone in the history of healthcare architecture.
The Ospedale Maggiore was conceived by the architect Filarete, whose design reflected Renaissance innovations in terms of functionality and aesthetics. The complex was organised around two main courtyards, with a layout that facilitated ventilation and the entry of natural light into all the pavilions. This structure not only improved conditions for patients, but also allowed better circulation for medical staff and visitors.
The hospital’s design was inspired by the Renaissance principles of symmetry and proportion and combined Gothic architectural elements with Renaissance innovations. The vaulted ceilings and large windows allowed both optimal ventilation and light to enter, essential for the patients’ recovery. The hospital wings were organised in such a way that patients with infectious diseases were separated from those with other ailments, an advanced concept for the time.
The Ospedale Maggiore was also a pioneer in the introduction of specialised medical services. It housed different sections for the treatment of various diseases, including maternity and surgical wings. This allowed for more targeted and efficient care, laying the foundation for the specialisation in medicine that we see in modern healthcare centres.
This hospital was not only a medical treatment centre, but also an example of how architecture can contribute to the emotional wellbeing of patients and staff.
Over the years, the Ospedale Maggiore has undergone several extensions and renovations, adapting to the changing needs of medicine and the population. However, it has maintained its Renaissance essence and its commitment to quality medical care.
Fachada del Ospedale Maggiore, hoy Ca’Granda en Milán.
SANTA MARIA NUOVA: A MEDIEVAL JEWEL IN FLORENCE
We continue our journey in Italy, this time in Florence, where we find the Hospital of Santa Maria Nuova, one of the oldest hospitals in the world still in operation. Founded in 1288 by Folco Portinari, the hospital has witnessed the evolution of medicine and healthcare architecture for more than seven centuries.
The Hospital of Santa Maria Nuova was born as a charitable institution to care for the poor and sick of Florence. Its foundation was made possible by the generosity of the Portinari family, and the hospital quickly became a model of medical organisation and care in medieval Europe. Its initial design reflected the needs of the time, with large rooms and common spaces that allowed multiple patients to be cared for at the same time.
Over the centuries, the hospital has gone through several phases of expansion and renovation, adapting to advances in medicine and the changing needs of the population. During the Renaissance, the hospital was enlarged and improved under the direction of architects such as Michelozzo and Giuliano da Sangallo, who introduced more modern and functional architectural elements.
One of the highlights of Santa Maria Nuova is its historic pharmacy, established in the 16th century. The pharmacy, which is still preserved, is a testimony to the importance of medicine and botany in the history of the hospital. The original flasks and tools, as well as historical records, provide fascinating insight into medical practice at the time.
The hospital also houses an impressive collection of religious art, including frescoes, paintings and sculptures that adorn its chapels and halls. These works of art not only embellish the space, but also reflect the relationship between medicine and faith.
Today, Santa Maria Nuova is still a functioning hospital, combining its rich historical heritage with modern medical services. The integration of advanced technologies and contemporary medical practices in a unique historical setting makes this hospital an outstanding example of how the past and the present can coexist harmoniously.
Fachada principal del Hospital de Santa María Nuova en Florencia.
THE HOSPITAL OF THE VENERABLE THIRD ORDER: TRADITION AND SERVICE IN MADRID
We finish our tour with two stops in Spain, the first one is in the heart of Madrid, where the Hospital of the Venerable Third Order is located. Founded in 1679 by the Venerable Third Order of St. Francis, this hospital has witnessed more than three centuries of history and service to the community, being the oldest functioning hospital in the city.
The building is an outstanding example of Madrid Baroque architecture. Its design reflects a blend of functionality and beauty, with a layout that facilitates air circulation and natural light in all rooms. The hospital’s façade is simple but elegant, with architectural details that emphasise its historic character. The semicircular arches and decorative pilasters add a touch of distinction to its appearance.
The interior of the hospital is organised around a central courtyard, a common feature of healthcare architecture at the time, which allowed for better ventilation and access to sunlight. This courtyard not only improved conditions for the patients, but also provided a space of tranquillity and reflection for patients and staff.
In the 19th century, major modernisation work was carried out, including the construction of new wings and the incorporation of advanced medical technology for the time.
Today, the Hospital of the Venerable Third Order is still in operation, combining its rich historical heritage with modern medical services.
Fotografía del exterior del Hospital de la Venerable Orden Tercera en Madrid.
ANTEZANA HOSPITAL: A MEDIEVAL LEGACY IN ALCALÁ DE HENARES
Our last stop takes us to the historic city of Alcalá de Henares. Here we find the Antezana Hospital, an institution dating from the 15th century and considered to be the oldest active hospital in Spain.
The Antezana Hospital was founded in 1483 by Cardinal Pedro González de Mendoza, with the aim of caring for the poor and pilgrims who travelled through the region. It was strategically located in Alcalá de Henares, a city that at the time was an important religious and educational centre. The foundation of this hospital reflected the growing concern for public health and welfare during the Middle Ages.
The original building of the Antezana Hospital is still standing, although it has undergone several restorations and modifications over the centuries. Its architecture is a testimony to the late Gothic style, with elements showing a transition to the Renaissance. The façade is made of brick and stone and is characterised by its pointed arch doorway and windows with Gothic tracery.
The interior is organised around a central cloister, a typical feature of medieval hospitals that served both for circulation and to provide a space for calm and meditation. This cloister is one of the most remarkable elements of the building and reflects the influence of monastic architecture on healthcare design.
Over the centuries, the Antezana Hospital has seen numerous transformations. In the 16th century, with the rise of the University of Alcalá, the hospital benefited from the proximity of one of the most important educational institutions in Spain. This link allowed access to advanced medical knowledge and collaboration with renowned academics and doctors.
In the 19th century, the hospital was extended and modernised to meet the needs of contemporary medicine. New wings were added, and sanitary facilities were upgraded, allowing for more efficient and specialised care. Although the hospital no longer functions as such, the building has been preserved as part of the historical heritage of Alcalá de Henares.
Fotografía del exterior del Hospital de Antezana en Alcalá de Henares. Fotografía EFE/Juan Benet