The Mysteries of the Courtyards of Lodz and Vilnius- Similarities and Differences

Abstract

At the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries, both in Lodz as well as in Vilnius, tenement houses began appearing, which were always accompanied by a bigger or smaller space which constituted a semi- public courtyard. The size of these interior courtyards underwent change along with the evolution of these cities and their construction laws. Today, the courtyards of Lodz and Vilnius uncover the true tale of the city. All of them bustled with life in days past, being the places of residents hustling and passing each other by, the places of trading for street merchants, and playgrounds for children. Today, many courtyards have gone empty, changing their function and most often becoming a parking space for cars belonging to local residents. Some dark, cobblestone ones with buildings in bad shape deter people, while others – restored, well-lit, throbbing with life – invite people in. Unfortunately, most of the courtyards are in very poor shape, which requires immediate intervention. The most common cause of this passive approach is a lack of funds. One can only hope that still, step by step, changes for the better will be taking place. Perhaps courtyards will become the business cards of these beautiful, interesting cities; maybe they will become places which are worth admiring, and which are worth spending time in. The classification of the courtyards in Lodz and Vilnius allows us to consider the similarities and differences in their appearance and management. Through this article, the author aims to allow for a closed look at these spaces, which play an important role in the city. She attempts to answer the question of how these courtyards affect the cities’ residents. The changes which are taking place are pointed out, their influence on the environment, the residents, and their modern-day function is shown.