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The study investigates how ancient theoretical principles and narratives shape understanding of urban environments.

July 1, 2026Open Access

Urban Design and Experience in Ancient Sources: The Examples of Vitruvius and Pausanias (A Brief Assessment of Architectural Theories and Experience)

Key Points

The study investigates how ancient theoretical principles and narratives shape understanding of urban environments.
Thematic analysis of urban elements in Vitruvius’ De Architectura and Pausanias’ Periegesis Hellados.
Focus on sacred spaces, forums, harbours, and the relationship between acropolis and lower city.
Comparison of normative architectural frameworks with descriptive narratives.
Vitruvius emphasizes rational design principles for urban spaces, while Pausanias highlights narrative and cultural significance.
Baths and theatres are considered technical by Vitruvius, contrasting with their cultural role in Pausanias’ text.
A combined approach reveals a more comprehensive understanding of ancient cities beyond mere architectural criteria.

Abstract

This study examines the relationship between the theoretical design principles of ancient cities and narratives based on the use of built spaces through a comparative analysis of Vitruvius’ De Architectura and Pausanias’ Periegesis Hellados. The methodological approach of the research is based on the thematic analysis of urban elements in both texts, focusing on sacred spaces, the forum/agora, harbours, the relationship between the acropolis and the lower city, baths and palaestra/gymnasion complexes, and theatres. Vitruvius’ text approaches the city as a rational and generalizing system shaped by site selection, climatic and environmental conditions, orientation, proportion, building typologies, and engineering principles. Sacred spaces are defined through architectural order, orientation, and hierarchical placement; the forum is regarded as the centre of legal and economic activity, while harbours are considered as technical infrastructure components associated with waves, winds, and defensive elements. By contrast, in Pausanias the city is conveyed through a descriptive narrative unfolding along walking routes, articulated through the sequencing of sacred stations, mythological references, cult continuity, and local memory. The agora is presented as a public space in which ethical and identity-related meanings are concentrated; the harbour as a significant place charged with religious and political representations; and the acropolis as a higher space where historical and sacred meanings converge. While structures such as baths, gymnasia, and theatres are defined in Vitruvius through criteria of technical functionality, health, and performance, in Pausanias these spaces are associated with cult practices, social identity, and acts of remembrance. In conclusion, the study demonstrates that the ancient city should be evaluated not solely through planning and architectural principles, but also in relation to ritual practices, social memory, and spatial experience. The study argues that a combined reading of Vitruvius’ normative framework and Pausanias’ descriptive narrative offers a holistic approach to the study of ancient cities.

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