Diogo de Torralva

Diogo de Torralva was a Portuguese architect who worked in the mid-16th century. He was a key figure in the transition from the decorative Manueline style to a more classical Italianate style in Portugal.12

Torralva's work, such as the cloister in the convent of the Order of Christ at Tomar (1557–62), incorporated elements like rhythmic bays of alternating arches and classical orders, influenced by Italian Renaissance architects like Bramante. This marked a significant shift towards the principles of the Renaissance, which emphasized naturalism, classical forms, and mathematical proportion in architecture. His approach helped to establish a more standardized classical style in Portuguese architecture, moving away from the elaborate ornamentation of the Manueline period.12