Traditional use and meaning of urban spaces

Auteurs

• Genet Alem Gebregiorgis

Paramètres

• Manuels
• Manuels universitaires

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The linkage between traditional values and the built environment is a widely discussed topic among architects, sociologists, and historians, particularly in developed cities. This study shifts the focus to Sub-Saharan Africa, a region experiencing rapid urbanization despite being under-urbanized. By examining the historical and contemporary development of cities like Gondar and Addis Ababa in Ethiopia, the research highlights how traditional values shape the meaning and use of urban spaces. It explores the influence of religion and socio-political structures on the hierarchical relationships and significance of these spaces. Drawing on Harvey's theories, the study underscores the importance of socio-cultural values in spatial planning and identifies key institutions that translate these values into actions that continuously reshape the built environment. Through engaging discussions, supported by photographs, historical documents, and analyses, the research illustrates that a city's built environment reflects the history and experiences of its residents, evolving over time while passing knowledge between generations. This work emphasizes the importance of this knowledge for planners, policymakers, and researchers to inform urban development and highlights the built environment as a heritage deserving of respect from its inhabitants.

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• Année de publication: 2011