Comparative analysis of Jesuit architecture of the XVI-XVIII centuries in Asia

The article is devoted to a comparative analysis of the Jesuit architecture of the XVI–XVIII centuries in three key Asian regions – Japan, Goa and Macau. The study examines the influence of the European architectural tradition based on the "Instructions" of Carlo Borromeo and the principles of the Jesuit Baroque on the development of religious buildings in conditions of socio-cultural and geopolitical diversity. The novelty of the work lies in the comparative analysis of the Jesuit architecture of Japan, Goa and Macau, which allows us to identify patterns of synthesis of the European Baroque tradition with local construction practices. The general patterns and differences in architectural solutions are revealed due to the level of colonial control, political restrictions and interaction with local building traditions. It is shown that in Japan, the Jesuits were forced to adapt their architecture to local conditions as much as possible, creating portable modular temples, whereas in Goa their architecture almost completely followed European canons. Macau has developed a unique synthesis of Chinese and European architectural traditions, which is reflected in a special combination of Baroque forms and oriental decorative elements. The results obtained allow for a deeper understanding of the mechanisms of intercultural interaction and adaptation of the European architectural heritage in Asia. The research is based on an interdisciplinary approach combining historical and architectural analysis, comparative typological method and elements of a cultural approach. The paper analyzes primary and secondary sources, including written testimonies of Jesuit missionaries, historical chronicles, as well as preserved architectural monuments. The novelty of the research lies in a comprehensive comparative analysis of Jesuit architecture in three different cultural and historical contexts, which makes it possible to identify patterns of adaptation of European architectural traditions to Asian conditions. Unlike most works examining the architecture of the Jesuits in colonial America and Europe, this study focuses on the mechanisms of synthesis of Baroque architecture with local traditions in Asia. For the first time, one study conducted a detailed comparison of the Japanese, Goan, and Macau architectural experiences and showed how the level of political autonomy of the region, economic support for missions, and the attitude of local authorities to Catholic expansion determined the nature of the adaptation of architectural forms. And also analyze and give examples one by one according to the situation in different regions.

Jesuit architecture, The Baroque, Goa, Macau, Japan, missionary activity, architectural syncretism, The Catholic Church, colonial architecture, The Jesuits