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The history of architecture aims to discover the relations inbetween the built environment (meaning locations, landscapes, built and non-built projects, ideas and discussions about space) and society. It contextualises design in the global social, political and economic history as well as in the theory and builds connections between design and science, technique and intellectual life.

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Learn more about the History and Theory of Architecture

The history of architecture is essential to educating architects* as responsible citizens who are aware of the impact of their practice on society and the planet. The Chair offers lectures on the global history of the built environment (GdgU) from prehistory to the present, as well as a variety of seminars on aspects of the history and theory of modern architecture and the built environment. Research at the Chair focuses on the history and theory of modern architecture, including the relationship between architecture, life sciences, and social engineering; gender aspects of architectural history; and architecture under socialism.

News and events

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Conflict and Cooperation in the History of Cartography during the 20th century

Nikolay Smirnov will take part in the "Conflict and Cooperation in the History of Cartography during the 20th century" workshop at the Herder Institute, Marburg, Germany, September 24, 2026. The workshop is part of the DFG-funded project “The World Map 1:2,500,000 (Karta Mira) as a Vehicle of Socialist Globalization: Potentials and Limits of Scientific Standardization and International Cooperation, 1958–1989." Paper: "Geo-Cartoids and Late Soviet Theoretical Geography in the Global Context."

International Regional Conference of the International Geographic Union in Istanbul

Nikolay Smirnov participated in the International Regional Conference of the International Geographic Union, Istanbul, Turkey, August 17–21, 2026. The panel “Histories of/Ideas in Geography for Peace” was organized by the Commission on the History of Geography and chaired by Federico Ferretti and Marcella Schmidt di Friedberg. Paper: “Late Soviet Theoretical Geography and Its International Connections.”