Jacques Marquet, later known as Jaime Marquet, relocated from Paris to Spain during the mid-eighteenth century to serve the Bourbon court. His architectural career spanned several decades, aligning with a period of transition in European design styles and extensive infrastructure development within the Spanish capital and its surrounding royal sites.
Early Commissions and Royal Ties
In the 1750s, Marquet secured professional opportunities through the influence of Fernando de Silva, the 12th Duke of Alba, who served as the Spanish ambassador in Paris. This connection facilitated his transition into the Spanish court of Ferdinand VI. His early activities included refurbishing the street paving in Madrid and joining the Real Academia de Bellas Artes de San Fernando in 1755. During this decade, he also produced works such as the Iglesia de San Antonio in Aranjuez, completed around 1752, and the Cocheras de la Reina Madre in 1758.
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Between 1755 and 1766, Marquet undertook the design and construction of the Palacio de los duques de Alba. Located at the family estate in Piedrahita, the palace served as a primary project during his initial years working within the Spanish sphere. This work allowed him to establish his technical capabilities before he began managing larger public projects in Madrid.
Madrid Infrastructure and the Post Office
Following the death of King Ferdinand VI in 1759, King Carlos III ascended to the throne. This shift in power influenced architectural commissions in Madrid, specifically regarding the Puerta del Sol. Initially managed by Ventura Rodriguez, the project involved clearing blocks 205 and 206 to make space for a new headquarters for the Spanish postal service. Marquet assumed responsibility for the Real Casa de Correos project in 1760, overseeing construction between 1766 and 1768.
Theatrical and Military Architecture
Marquet designed significant public and royal structures, including the first enclosed theatre in Spain, the Teatro Real Coliseo de Carlos III in Aranjuez, completed in 1767.
Fast facts
- Born: 1710, Paris
- Died: 1782, Paris
- Nationality: French
- Occupation: Architect
- Member: Real Academia de Bellas Artes de San Fernando
- Notable Project: Real Casa de Correos
- First enclosed theatre: Teatro Real Coliseo de Carlos III, Aranjuez
Questions readers ask
Which major public building did Marquet construct in Madrid?
He constructed the Real Casa de Correos, which served as the headquarters for the Spanish postal service.
What was the significance of the Teatro Real Coliseo de Carlos III?
It was the first enclosed theatre built in Spain.
Achievements
- Notable work: Palacio de los duques de Alba
- Notable work: Cocheras de la Reina Madre
- Notable work: Royal Post Office
- Notable work: Cuarteles de Reales Guardias Walonas y Españolas
