The social life of Slovak’s agora: the unfolding of Bratislava’s Korzo
The article explores the evolution of Bratislava’s korzo, a social practice that sheds light on the social and cultural transformations shaping urban spaces and their communities. Emerging from a 19th-century urban renewal initiative, the korzo evolved into a lively center of community interaction, reflecting the rich linguistic and cultural tapestry of Slovak, Hungarian, German, and Jewish influences. The tradition of “corsing” embodied connection, visibility, and shared social rituals, bridging class divides while adapting to shifting political, social, and economic contexts. From its multicultural peak during the interwar period to its suppression under communist regimes and eventual revival after 1989, the korzo highlights the resilience of public spaces as sites of community life, memory, and urban transformation Despite the pressures of commercialization today, it remains a compelling example of the enduring importance of public spaces in nurturing culture and inspiring contemporary placemaking efforts that strive to balance historical preservation with modern innovation.
Discover the Cities in Placemaking Program
We are proud to share insights from the first edition of Cities in Placemaking—a city-to-city learning initiative that brought together 12 European municipalities to strengthen urban governance through placemaking
Summary of our visit in Reggio Emilia
After four inspiring days in Reggio Emilia, we’re returning to our hometowns, reflecting on an incredible experience in what will be the host city of Placemaking Week Europe 2025.
A reflection on Cities in Placemaking
The future of a sustainable urban lifestyle should be founded on simple ideas formulated and shared by the people who populate our cities. To me, that is placemaking.
Cities reflected on their internal approaches to placemaking in the last Cities in Placemaking milestone in Helsinborg
The final Cities in Placemaking milestone, which took place in Helsingborg from 2-4 December, marks an important milestone in the journey towards embedding placemaking in cities’ strategies.
Unlock the Culture-Led Development Framework: Get the free Whitepaper
Discover how cultural hubs and creative spaces transform cities into vibrant, dynamic places to live and thrive. Explore strategies and solutions in our free whitepaper.
Organising Lasting Social Impact: Keilekwartier Rotterdam
Placemaking goes beyond a mere temporary intervention, though the term is often used as a synonym for short-term efforts. It’s about creating lasting impact for neighborhoods, cities, and communities. In the Keilekwartier, located in Rotterdam’s Merwe-Vierhavens (M4H), the value of the existing temporary initiatives is recognized and appreciated.
In-Depth
A curated selection of in-depth interviews, case studies and other media about placemaking and related topics.
Podcasts
Dive into the dynamic world of placemaking and urbanism through engaging conversations with thought leaders, architects, city planners, and community innovators.
Shorts
A collection of videos exploring the current state of the placemaking community. Dive into the latest news and insights and join the conversation!
