450 WORD STATEMENT 

Why do I want to study Architecture in the University of Manchester? 

I consider Manchester as a city characterized by a lot of architectural and cultural diversity; being a metropolitan city, it hosts people from all around the globe, whereas its urban design is represented by Modern and Victorian architecture. Manchester differs significantly from the city I grew up in, in terms of architecture; therefore it would be very intriguing to experience such an environmental change. Additionally, the University of Manchester offers facilities and classes that assist the learning process and create a pleasant ambient for all students. I believe the University, in combination with the city itself, will provide me with many important experiences and priceless knowledge, showing me the right path to follow in my professional life. 

Description of an Exhibition I Recently Visited

I recently visited the “Open Day Athens” exhibition, during which private buildings and spaces of great architectural value opened their gates to the public. Taking a tour through many buildings in the center of Athens, I had the chance to explore interesting features I had not seen formerly, while also realizing there is much architectural diversity in my city I was not aware of. Historical information on the buildings also indicated the influence of foreign architecture styles in Greece. 

My Favorite Building 

The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore in Florence was the building that changed my perception of architecture; upon examining its grand size, its extraordinary details and harmonic features, I realized why Architecture consists such an important art and decided to study it. The Cathedral manages to impose the awe of God, while I find the history of the temple fascinating, especially considering Il Duomo; its construction was both adventurous and compelling. 

My Favorite Architect

An architect that truly inspires me is Michelangelo. Although known mostly as a painter and sculptor, his architectural work all over Italy is, in my opinion, an irreplaceable part of art history and an exemplar of craftsmanship. The essence of an architect as a polymath is imprinted in Michelangelo’s work; that helps me comprehend the importance of all arts and motivates me to continuously improve in my work.

A Work of Architecture I would like to Experience in Person 

The Basílica of Sagrada Familia in Barcelona consists a monument I crave to visit one day. What makes it so special to me is that it is a sui generis temple, which creates a contrast between the established catholic architecture one often encounters all over Europe, and Gaudí’s perception of both God and the world. Its spectacular manipulation of light in the interior and the peculiar design of its grandiose façade indicate the remarkable technique of an ingenious architect, who was inspired by nature, God and his own conception of our world. It is one of the buildings that make one feel respect and awe, therefore I would love to experience it.