In each edition of the Ibero-American Biennial of Architecture and Urbanism (BIAU), the event honors masters of Ibero-American architecture with the Ibero-American Architecture and Urbanism Prize.
The Ibero-American Architecture and Urbanism Prize recognizes work "directly related to architecture and/or urbanism, highlighting its aesthetic, functional, technical, social, economic, and environmental aspects. This may include built work, planning, heritage conservation and restoration, knowledge production, or social commitment," as outlined in the competition guidelines.
Awarded since 1998—when its inaugural edition recognized a diverse range of nationalities (Francisco Sáenz de Oiza, Paulo Mendes da Rocha, Eladio Dieste, and Fernando Távora)—the prize constantly sparks debate about who deserves to be honored in such international forums. Does built work take precedence over theoretical debate? Social commitment or structural experimentation? What "values related to architecture and urbanism in Ibero-America" should this award recognize?
