This course consists of a basic introduction to the history of architecture, architectural theory and urban planning. While the material is structured from a European perspective, Swedish architecture is seen as an integrated part of an international development. The course is based on a chronological narrative, ranging from antiquity to the end of the 20th century. The basic concepts are subsequently introduced together with contemporary theoretical and critical perspectives. The relation between theory and practise is treated through case studies of architectural practise, education and historiography, which also shows how the production of history have contributed to the current image of European architecture. Basic knowledge is conveyed through lectures and excursions, while the ability to analyse and search information is trained through the writing of short essays, discussed in the form of seminars.
A11HIB History and Theory of Architecture 1: Introduction to European Architecture 7.5 credits

Information per course offering
Information for Autumn 2026 Start 26 Oct 2026 programme students
- Course location
KTH Campus
- Duration
- 26 Oct 2026 - 31 May 2027
- Periods
Autumn 2026: P2 (4 hp)
Spring 2027: P3 (1 hp), P4 (2.5 hp)
- Pace of study
17%
- Application code
12175
- Form of study
Normal Daytime
- Language of instruction
Swedish
- Course memo
- Course memo is not published
- Number of places
Min: 5
- Target group
- No information inserted
- Planned modular schedule
- [object Object]
- Schedule
- Schedule is not published
- Part of programme
Contact
Course syllabus as PDF
Please note: all information from the Course syllabus is available on this page in an accessible format.
Course syllabus A11HIB (Autumn 2026–)Content and learning outcomes
Course contents
Intended learning outcomes
The main objective of the course is to provide students with a basic understanding of the historical and theoretical development of architecture from a European perspective, from antiquity to the end of the 20th century. The aim is to develop students’ ability to analyse historical examples and to independently seek information within the subject area.
Upon completion of the course, students should be able to:
- describe the main features of the historical and theoretical development of European architecture
- apply the subject area’s fundamental concepts in both written and oral form
- analyse individual architectural projects, built examples and theoretical texts
- independently search for relevant information within the subject area
- reflect on their learning
Literature and preparations
Specific prerequisites
Literature
Examination and completion
Grading scale
Examination
- MOMA - Element 1, 4.0 credits, grading scale: P, F
- MOMB - Element 2, 3.5 credits, grading scale: P, F
Based on recommendation from KTH’s coordinator for disabilities, the examiner will decide how to adapt an examination for students with documented disability.
The examiner may apply another examination format when re-examining individual students.
If the course is discontinued, students may request to be examined during the following two academic years.
Other requirements for final grade
The course is divided into two modules. MOMA – Module 1, 4.0 credits / MOMB – Module 2, 3.5 credits. To receive a passing grade, students must complete the required essay assignment for each module and maintain 80% attendance at lectures, seminars, and field trips. A reflection on their own learning must also be submitted.
Course module supplementation means that a student who has received a grade of F and is deemed to be close to meeting the requirements for a passing grade of P may be given the opportunity to complete supplementary work to achieve a passing grade. The course examiner decides whether supplementation is possible.
The supplementary assignment is designed based on the learning objectives the student has not achieved. The student shall be given 15 working days to complete the supplementary work. After that, supplementary work may not be done, in accordance with KTH’s guidelines on course syllabi, grading systems, and examination.
Examiner
Ethical approach
- All members of a group are responsible for the group's work.
- In any assessment, every student shall honestly disclose any help received and sources used.
- In an oral assessment, every student shall be able to present and answer questions about the entire assignment and solution.