Argyro Mazioti, Danai-Alexandra-Lily Tsiminikaki, "Dialogue between public space and culture: The case of Chania", Diploma Thesis Project, School of Architecture, Technical University of Crete, Chania, Greece, 2025
https://doi.org/10.26233/heallink.tuc.102875
It is without a doubt that public space is an essential part of the modern city, serving as a meeting place, a space for social interaction and a medium for cultural expression. Since ancient times, it has been the primary setting of cultural activity and the center of collective life. However, over the years, and with the evolution of cultural needs, the once dominant cultural role of public spaces started to decline, giving way to the development of enclosed, specialized cultural venues. The shift towards the creation of new facilities, relegated public spaces to mere complements of the modern city rather than cultural entities, due to the lack of emphasis on their integration with the new buildings. Nowadays, it is observed that only public spaces adjacent to cultural venues retain some degree of cultural identity, while the rest remain inactive. In the context of highlighting the importance of the interaction between buildings and public spaces, this study will examine cases where cultural identity has been preserved. This analysis aims to initiate a discussion on enhancing and reclaiming the cultural role of public spaces in Chania. Can the cultural interaction between buildings and public spaces redefine them as cultural landmarks? How does effective design support their long - term sustainability?