Santiago Calatrava Spanish architect and sculptor Date of Birth: 28.07.1951 Country: Spain

1. Early Life and Education
2. Architectural Influences and Career Beginnings
3. City of Arts and Sciences, Valencia

Early Life and Education

Santiago Calatrava, a renowned Spanish architect and sculptor, was born in Valencia on July 28, 1951. He studied at the School of Architecture and the School of Arts and Crafts in his hometown. Upon graduating in 1975, Calatrava was appointed to the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich (ETH), where he earned his engineering degree.

Architectural Influences and Career Beginnings

Calatrava's architectural style is influenced by the renowned architect Le Corbusier. In 1981, he established his own studio in Zurich, practicing both architecture and engineering. His first major project was the Jakem Factory Hangar in Münchwillen, Switzerland (1983-1985). In 1989, Calatrava opened a branch of his office in Paris.

City of Arts and Sciences, Valencia

Calatrava played a pivotal role in the design of the City of Arts and Sciences complex in his hometown of Valencia, Spain. The project involved diverting a riverbed south of the city and converting the former riverbed into a 10-kilometer park with ponds and pools. The complex, co-designed by Calatrava and Felix Candela, is a testament to his architectural ingenuity.