ABSTRACT
The concept of "event” is used in some fields of research in urban, regional and environmental sociology, but has not so far received a univocal definition and consistent developments. However, it is at the centre of numerous debates in contemporary philosophy, as well as in other fields of knowledge. This article examines some aspects of this reflection, trying to draw from them indications for a more solid foundation of the idea of the spatial event, considered as an unforeseen and contingent phenomenon, which refers not only to the effects of social interactions, but involves at the same time a multiplicity of non-human elements endowed with specific agency, be they natural or technological entities. This task also requires defining the relationship between the event and the situation from which it originates, as well as the ways in which it can bring about a radical transformation of this situation. Based on these considerations, the article concludes by posing the question of the Covid 19 syndemics as a catastrophic event, which nevertheless has the potential to transform the situation at various spatial levels. Copyright © FrancoAngeli.
ABSTRACT
The benefits of interaction with urban public space, particularly green spaces are numerous for citizens, especially those who live in metropolitan areas. The outbreak of the pandemic, as well as the restrictive measures put in place to prevent the virus’s spread, caused enormous changes in people’s daily lives and activities. Using a structured questionnaire, the current study intends to capture the shift in attitudes and perceptions of residents of the Attica region during the 2nd wave of restriction measures (7/11/20 – 3/7/21). During the pandemic, visitation in urban public spaces increased, according to the data. The great majority of participants preferred to visit mostly urban public areas within walking distance of their residence (up to 15 minutes), especially in the afternoon and relatively frequently, with 45 percent claiming to visit them “daily” or “3-4 times a week,” and only 3% claiming “never”. The analysis showed an increase in the visits during the pandemic from participants who reported better-perceived quality of the spaces, better accessibility, safety during the day, and a feeling of relaxation in the free public spaces of their area. Additionally, those reported living in areas with many available spaces were more likely to increase the frequency of visits during the pandemic. © 2022, Kauno Technologijos Universitetas. All rights reserved.