The Importance of Pedestrianization in Cities- Assessment of Pedestrianized Streets in Nicosia Walled City

Abstract

approach in recent years. One of these cities which is the last divided capital city and one of the most important cultural heritages of the Mediterranean region in the island of Cyprus is the Nicosia Walled City. Within this study, the existing situation of pedestrianized areas in the Walled City in north Nicosia were examined. In literature review part, the importance of pedestrianization, reasons and benefits of pedestrianization, examples of pedestrianized areas/streets around the world are reviewed. The pedestrianized streets/areas in the north Nicosia Walled City were examined on-site, photographed, their current status was revealed and evaluated according to determined criteria. Each street/area was evaluated in terms of functions in the street, mobility, accessibility by car or public transportation, social/community activities, economic development and quality of physical environment. When the old city of Nicosia is analyzed in the context of these criteria, it has been observed that the pedestrianized areas have an increasing social, cultural and economical contribution to the city. In addition to its historical features, the places and activities that attract the people especially young population and tourists, bring life to this region. In terms of environmental aspects, visual incompatibilities were observed even in the streets where pedestrianization studies have been carried out recently. There are also problems about vehicle and pedestrian traffic that affect users. The study was completed by making suggestions at the end of the study. Keywords: pedestrianized streets, pedestrianized squares, Nicosia Walled City, Cyprus