Pause for a moment before the BARTOLOMÉ HURTADO Plaque. What stories could these stones tell? This plaque commemorates Bartolomé Hurtado. He was an architect for King Carlos II. Hurtado lived near this very spot from 1628 to 1699.
Bartolomé Hurtado was born in Parla a town near Madrid. His birth date was April 4 1628. His father Bartolomé Hurtado was a master bricklayer. Bartolomé had an older brother José who shared the same profession.
A twist of fate connected Bartolomé to Juan Beloso. Beloso was a relative from Parla. He also held the position of Appraiser of Royal Works. Bartolomé married Beloso’s daughter María. This connection helped him become the First Appraiser. He worked on projects like the Alcázar of Madrid El Pardo and Casa de Campo.
Bartolomé Hurtado designed solar homes for Madrid’s nobility. He also designed the Convent of Bernardas del Santísimo Sacramento. Today its church is the Castrense Cathedral. He contributed to the left wing of the Casa de la Villa which served as its prison.
Hurtado’s influence extended beyond Madrid. In his hometown of Parla he built the Ermita de la Soledad. He also constructed his own house there. Bartolomé Hurtado’s home in Madrid was in the Parish of San Martín. Many master builders of that era resided there.
He married in 1644 and had ten children in this house. Some of his children later held court positions. The death of Queen Mariana in 1696 changed his fortunes. He lost royal favor and returned to Parla. He remained there until his death on September 26 1699.
The BARTOLOMÉ HURTADO Plaque serves as a reminder. It marks the spot where a master architect lived and worked. He shaped Madrid and left a lasting legacy in Parla. Next time you pass by take a moment to remember Bartolomé Hurtado.