[The beginnings of neuroscience in Spain. 'Neural circulation' in the work of the illustrious novator Martín Martínez (1684-1734)].
BACKGROUND
During the 'scientific revolution' that took place in the 18th century, a complex and poorly completed theory on the functioning of the nervous system, neural circulation, was to draw the attention of the European vanguards and, although it came up against a number of important obstacles, it also attempted to renew the traditional gallenic knowledge that had prevailed until then. In Spain, the field of medical knowledge was to flourish and the neurosciences presented their credentials with the introduction and development of the concept of neural circulation by the novator Martin Martinez.


METHODS
This work attempts to evoke that historic time and to summarise the elements that go to make up the neural or 'spirituous' circulation, as well as reviewing the figure of Martin Martinez.


CONCLUSIONS
Neural circulation was a speculative theoretical deviation that tried, unsuccessfully, to offer a better explanation for empirical facts. In Spain, led by Martin Martinez, it was at least an attempt to modernise thinking by introducing the new ideas about neurological anatomy that were going round Europe.
García-Albea Ristol
E
E
Sección de Neurología, Hospital Universitario Príncipe de Asturias, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain.
García-Albea Martín
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J
D049670:History, 17th Century; D049671:History, 18th Century; D009424:Nervous System Physiological Phenomena; D009488:Neurosciences / Q000266:history*; D013030:Spain