Considerations on Appraisal Work in Valladolid Architecture of the Second Half of the 19th Century

Abstract

The survey (valuation of lands, alignments, reports about the condition of real estate) carried out by architects and master builders during the second half of the 19th century in Valladolid influenced, exceedingly, the architectural and urban development image of the city. In these cases, the relations generated among the different professionals of the architecture turn out to be very interesting. We are referring to delicate relationships among experts that interfered with some of the most important buildings of the time. These buildings remain still today in Valladolid. This is the case of the Casa Mantilla, Julio Saracíbar's work, or the Mercado del Val, the only market made of iron that the city preserves, a market projected by Joaquín Ruiz Sierra. The clashes between public and private entities shaped the intrahistory of a lot of numerous buildings. They allow us to understand the day-to-day work of architects and master builders; sometimes defending the interests of the Municipality opposite to the intentions of the individuals, or vice versa. Other times, they had to confront expert friends with different opinions regarding the matter safeguarding the interests of their respective clients. Even so, this way of working has been rarely given the due attention and it explains why municipal architects were removed from office, other experts increased his clients' portfolio and prestige or it is the reason why some important roads finished with an image or the other.