Iberian Prize for Traditional Architecture

The Rafael Manzano Award for New Traditional Architecture aims to promote the value of traditional architecture as a reference point for current architecture. Since 2012, it has recognized the professional trajectories that have stood out in this field, in the territory of Spain and Portugal, and that have contributed especially to the continuity of the architectural tradition, both in the restoration of the architectural and urban heritage and in the realization of new works, which, being based on local traditions, are able to integrate harmoniously into the respective ensembles.

This award was awarded for the first time in October 2012. In 2017, thanks to the collaboration of the Serra Henriques Foundation, and with the High Patronage of His Excellency the President of the Republic of Portugal, the award was also extended to Portugal, being granted to professionals who practice the profession in either of the two countries. Until 2021 the award was annual, but from now on it will be biennial.

The Prize is convened by the Traditional Constructive Cultures Foundation, thanks to the support of INTBAU Spain, INTBAU Portugal, Kalam, the Serra Henriques Foundation, the Royal Academy of Fine Arts of San Fernando and the Order of Architects and with the High Patronage of His Excellency the President of the Republic of Portugal. All thanks to Richard H. Driehaus.

Winners of the Rafael Manzano Prize for New Traditional Architecture since 2012 

Iberian Award for New Traditional Architecture 2023

The Rafael Manzano Prize was created in 2012 for the territory of Spain and, in 2017, the Serra Henriques Foundation implemented it in Portugal with the High Patronage of the President of the Portuguese Republic.

It is the largest architecture prize in the Iberian Peninsula, worth fifty thousand euros.

Among the many works he carried out in Portugal, we can highlight the Hotel Six Senses, where for more than 30 years he transformed an old farmhouse into a hotel complex of international prestige, adding and transforming several volumes that connect the original structures, as well as beautifying and restoring them.

Also noteworthy is Quinta do Pinho, where he carried out an important work of recomposition and restoration of the old house, through the addition of elements (stairs, porches or openings) and volumes that respect the local architectural language.

The Rafael Manzano Prize for new traditional architecture is understood as an opportunity to value the cultural singularities of our territory and, in 2023, it was awarded to the architect Luís Rebelo de Andrade for his strong commitment to preserving the architectural traditions that shape the identity of each place.

The ceremony took place at the Citadel Palace of the Presidency of the Republic.

PREVIOUS EDITIONS - Iberian Prize for New Traditional Architecture

The New Traditional Architecture

In the middle of the century. In the 21st century, the new traditional architecture can be the answer to the needs of our urban centers and the national territory, which faces serious challenges, especially in the sustainable use of resources in each region. It is a type of architecture that focuses on the use of raw materials and local labor, favoring the economy, the settlement of a young population and the conservation of cultural heritage.