Urban design is a complicated subject for post-Communist locations. Many were founded in ancient times, meaning that their centers feature tight, winding streets and a density of historical structures that make new developments and reforms difficult. Many were expanded greatly by the communists, with new districts of sprawling and utilitarian block housing, new imposing buildings of experimental architectural design, and, often, massive new public transport systems. Most of the cities considered here have also gone through a renaissance of sorts in the post-Soviet era, discovering ways to make more of their city districts modern, comfortable, and more functional.
I’ve been reading works in which Petersburg is mentioned for the past few weeks in order to prepare for this amazing city. It’s been fantastic reconnecting with my love for Russian literature, but things have been feeling slightly off. Every time I walk somewhere, I am just in so much awe at the beauty of […]
