Urban form and innovation: the case of Cologne

Abstract

The physical form of Cologne is examined, principally during the period 1840-1990. The present built-up area is still orientated in relation to the central crossing place in Roman times of the cardo and decumanus. In recent decades the effects on the city core of traffic planning projects have diminished. The macro-spatial structure of the city appears to be largely independent of the aims and actions of individual generations of decision makers.