Urban Planning

The 15-minute city, a concept that has gained significant attention in recent years, evokes diverse reactions. The idea is simple yet powerful: all essential amenities should be reachable within a 15-minute walk or bike ride. This urban planning model promises to enhance sustainability, quality of life, and social cohesion. But what are the historical roots of this concept? How is it applied today? And why does it provoke controversy? Let’s explore these questions in detail. The Historical Roots of the 15-Minute City The idea of a city where everything is nearby is not new. In medieval times, cities were often compact, with markets, churches, and workshops within walking distance. This was not deliberate urban planning but a practical necessity, as transportation was limited. In the 19th century, this changed with the industrial revolution. Cities expanded rapidly, and suburbanization increased with the advent of trams and trains. The idea of compact urban living gave way to segregated residential and work areas. However, there were already thinkers like Ebenezer Howard advocating for the “garden city,” combining urban and rural qualities with amenities close at hand. The modern concept of the 15-minute city is strongly rooted in the theories of Franco-Colombian urban planner […]