The Spatial Identity of Historic Cairo, Part One: Typology, Geometry, and Geographic Distribution

Abstract

It is fundamental to maintain the local places’ identity, character and trajectory of evolution in order to create a sustainable process of urbanization.

This study introduces a quantitative inventory of urban spaces in Cairo, in the early 19th century, extracted from historic maps and indexes. Urban spaces are classified in terms of geometric typology (linear and central), geometric regularity of their footprints, sizes and geographical distribution.

The extracted information highlighted the quantitative domination of linear spaces and of irregularity in space footprint. It also showed a noticeable insignificant value of central spaces. However, the insignificant value of central spaces presented spatial identity of power demonstration in historic Cairo; irregularity and linearity presented sociocultural and economic identities.

Keywords: City identity, place identity, urban form, urban spaces, historic Cairo