A review of methods of cartographic presentation of urban space

Joanna Bac-Bronowicz,Gabriela Wojciechowska,Jan B Blachowski,J Górniak-Zimroz,D Kasza

doi:10.1051/e3sconf/20185500003

Joanna Bac-Bronowicz, Gabriela Wojciechowska + Show 3 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1051/e3sconf/20185500003

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Abstract

The aim of the article is to present selected solutions applied in urban planning, which, even contemporarily, can be used as models. The paper presents a review of selected concepts of model cities from the antiquity to contemporary times. The article presents methods of creating three-dimensional city models (or their flat presentations in so-called two and a half dimensions), including the historical conceptualization, portraying both the practical and aesthetical features of former map projections. Referring to historical examples, the article also includes historical and contemporary urban 3D models corresponding to analyzed conceptions.

Highlights

Portraying of the surrounding reality has been an immanent element of our civilization since its beginnings
The map of Milan by Leonardo da Vinci is considered to be a breakthrough in the history of cartography (Fig. 8), as it is believed to be the first cartographic attempt to transfer the observations from the ground level to the bird’s eye view with sheer use of artist’s imagination, which was in opposition to the contemporary representations of cities painted from a specific point as perspective views
When analyzing city maps the way of arranging facilities on them may be simplified with the use of the following taxonomy: symbolism in antiquity and Middle Ages, transition towards realism in the Renaissance and later gradual distinction between cartographic representations and painting imagery

Summary

Introduction

Portraying of the surrounding reality has been an immanent element of our civilization since its beginnings. Maps serve numerous important functions, such as: historical, social, cultural, educational, directional, cognitive, operational and guiding. The integration of smart technologies and efficient city management models for sure will require quick, automated digital cartographic models with possibly highest data quality. Current techniques used for analysis, modelling and presentation of geoinformation become increasingly improved and enable creation of virtual city models aiming at management of urban infrastructure. The infinite number of current possibilities, it is important to take notice of changes in cartographic presentations of cities which occurred during the history. Among numerous cartographic presentations those which present projections crucial for the development of the history of cartography have been selected, reflecting the character of a given period. Maps are a necessary element in gaining knowledge concerning the surroundings and presenting projects related to spatial development. The aim of the article is to present selected solutions applied in creation of city maps, which might serve as models even in the contemporary day and age

Urban cartographic representations – from antiquity to contemporary times

Summary