O papel do centro histórico na estrutura das cidades contemporâneas – o caso de Porto Alegre, Brasil

Abstract

© 2014 by Unisinos. In the dynamics of urban transformation, city centres have gone through several stages, ranging from moments of strong growth, followed by decentralization processes, displacement of population and some activities, leading to subsequent revitalization strategies. This article discusses the role and importance of city centres in contemporary Brazilian cities, focusing on the empirical case of Porto Alegre (RS), Brazil. Initially the theoretical framework presents the socio-spatial transformations taking place in central districts, especially in the last forty years, pointing out some important theories and models to understand such processes. Then the paper addresses the city centre of Porto Alegre, presenting some relevant indicators to analyse its dynamics and vitality. The findings suggest the resilience and vitality of Porto Alegre city centre and also highlight some factors that might be contributing to such a situation.