Urban Evolution: From Ancient Cities to Modern Megalopolises
Barcelona: Defining Urban Spaces
Defining areas inhabited by humans divides them into rural and urban areas. A city is a space with heterogeneous elements: natural, economic, and social. The criteria for distinguishing a city include the number of inhabitants, economic activity, and spatial organization. In Spain, a city is considered to have over 10,000 inhabitants, while in Japan it’s over 20,000, and in Sweden, 200.
Economic activity in cities primarily revolves around industry and services, unlike
Read MoreSpain’s Political System and Territorial Organization
1.1. Spain: A Parliamentary Monarchy
Spain is a parliamentary monarchy. The King is the Head of State. The government directs state policy and can dissolve parliament.
1.2. The Crown
In this parliamentary monarchy, the King holds the crown, representing the State. The King is the arbiter and moderator of institutions. The King cannot make laws, direct political policy, or function as a judge. He advises, encourages, and warns the Parliament, government, and courts of justice. The King’s office is hereditary
Read MoreUrban Structures and City Models
Metropolitan Area
An urban extension surrounding a large city encompasses different, independent municipalities with significant economic ties. Key characteristics of a metropolitan area include a central city of substantial size and functional complexity, commuter migration from satellite towns, geographic contiguity between municipalities, and a developed transport system connecting the central city and its surrounding area.
The internal structure of a metropolitan area typically comprises three
Read MoreNatural Resources, Alternative Energy, and Environmental Law
1. Natural Resources
1.1 Definition of Natural Resources
Natural resources are naturally occurring materials or substances that are considered valuable in their relatively unmodified (natural) form. They are components of nature capable of being used in their natural state.
1.2 Classification of Natural Resources
Natural resources can be classified into three main categories:
- Virtually Inexhaustible Renewable Resources: These resources are constantly replenished through natural processes and cycles.
Colonial Urban Planning in the Americas
Urban Planning in Colonial Americas
In the 16th century, the colonization of the Americas began with the founding of new towns laid out in a grid pattern. In 1573, the Council of the Indies formulated general rules for founding cities in America, emphasizing even development and land distribution.
To found a city, a suitable site with fertile land, a conducive climate, access to fresh water, and building materials was necessary. A founder would establish the central square, from which land distribution
Read MoreUrban Planning: Shaping Cities and Addressing Needs
Public Authorities and Urban Planning
Municipalities and autonomous regions represent citizens and often mediate between real estate interests and citizen needs. They use town planning schemes to structure urban morphology and address imbalances and problems, aiming to meet everyone’s needs.
Planning and Development Plans
In cities, diverse interests necessitate rules for territorial order. Development plans, technical tools created by councils, aim to correct errors and deficiencies in public services
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