Theo Wiederspahn: Work and heritage legacy present in the architecture of Santa Maria (Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil)

Abstract

The designs of the German architect Theodor Wiederspahn are part of the collection of preserved buildings in the historic center of the city of Santa Maria, in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. These buildings date from the late nineteenth and early twentieth century and represent a time in which Brazil went through many political, social and economic transformations. These designs projects are an expression of eclecticism, the European trend that addressed the use of architectural styles and elements from different sources alone or in coexistence. These buildings are marks of a glorious past and can be visited until today. This work aims to study the works of the architect Wiederspahn in the city of Santa Maria. It initially describes the three works that are identified as his in this city: the mansion of Dr. Astrogildo Azevedo (now Gama d’Eca and Victor Bersani Educational Museum), the building of the former National Bank of Commerce (currently Caixa Econômica Federal) and the Caixeiral Club. Through analyzes made in accordance with the categories defined by Francis Ching (1998), the architectural elements that are peculiar or unique in Wiederspahn’s design were identified. These analyzes allowed a comparison between the three buildings and led to the identification of architectural design features characteristic of Wiederspahn.

Key words: Theodor Wiederspahn, conservation, preservation.