Harmonization of Natural and Urban Structures in The Danube Region

Abstract

The deteriorating state of the environment over the last half century has resulted in the current climate and environmental crisis, which is conditioned by the unbearable exploitation of the natural environment. One of the activities that plays a key role in this situation is urbanization with a constant occupation of the landscape, increasing emissions from traffic and buildings. A well-thought-out and consistent strategy for the harmonization of natural and urban structures can mitigate the negative climate impacts in the residential environment. The harmony of natural and artificial elements has a positive impact not only on the environmental but also the aesthetic quality of the urban environment. It can significantly help to strengthen the character of the cities. It was the landscape that significantly influenced their location and characteristic image. The research focuses on the evaluation of the quality of the urban environment with emphasis on the interaction of urban and landscape structures. The presented research is aimed to the connection of the city with the river and the surrounding landscape. It analyses and evaluates the impact of characteristic natural elements on the formation of urban structures during their development to the present day. It traces significant "traces" of the landscape in the urban structure of selected cities and their evolution. The research is focused to significant Slovak settlement on the Danube.