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Urban Growth and Long-Term Transformations in Spanish Cities Since the Mid-Nineteenth Century: A Methodology to Determine Changes in Urban Density

Author

Listed:
  • Eduard J. Alvarez-Palau

    (Universitat Oberta de Catalunya, 08035 Barcelona, Spain)

  • Jordi Martí-Henneberg

    (University of Lleida, 25003 Lleida, Spain)

  • Jorge Solanas-Jiménez

    (University of Lleida, 25003 Lleida, Spain)

Abstract

The current work models urban growth in the continuous built-up areas of 47 Spanish cities from the mid-nineteenth century through to the present day. We did this by compiling a comprehensive Geographic Information System (GIS) dataset, based on a series of historic maps and aerial images, and then used this to study urban growth and to make spatial comparisons. Our chosen indicator of expansion: population density, was calculated by dividing the total population of each city (based on its municipal area) by its built-up area during each period. Our results revealed four different stages of growth, each of which was characterised by a certain political and economic reality. They showed the clogging up of the walled city, the shaping of the urban ensanches , the maturity of the compact city and the process of metropolisation.

Suggested Citation

  • Eduard J. Alvarez-Palau & Jordi Martí-Henneberg & Jorge Solanas-Jiménez, 2019. "Urban Growth and Long-Term Transformations in Spanish Cities Since the Mid-Nineteenth Century: A Methodology to Determine Changes in Urban Density," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 11(24), pages 1-22, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:11:y:2019:i:24:p:6948-:d:294722
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    References listed on IDEAS

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