Amsterdam bans creation of new hotels
Another piece in the overall strategy to reduce tourist flows to the city
The communal stage is in the process of being built at the site of the former monument, Source: Vilnius Municipality / Kastytis Mačiūnas
It can take time to reset the public’s mindset about the purpose of an urban space…or it can take a project
These days, Vilnius is one of the Eastern European cities spearheading the movement of de-Sovietization. As part of its activities to erase traces of the authoritarian past and promote democracy, the local authorities have removed monuments dating back to the USSR.
One such monument was that of native writer Petras Cvirka who promoted the Communist ideology and opposed the Lithuanian partisans, who were trying to liberate the country during World War II. Following long years of debates and controversy, the capital city’s authorities finally removed the monument in November of last year.
But then, the issue of what to do with the bare space came up. First, the place was a source of controversy, then it became something of an urban desert spot. In the spirit of democratic values, what followed was a consultation with non-profits and citizens, and so the authorities decided to build a stage for community expressions and performances there.
After the removal of Cvirka's monument, the square between Pylimo and Pamėnkalnis streets did not attract citizens. It was inconvenient for people with mobility disabilities, as well as parents with strollers and cyclists. During the creative brainstorming workshop held in May, various proposals were made for what could appear in this space. It could become an open summer reading room, a place for active leisure, sports, creativity, and outdoor cafes. In fact, many of these proposals will be implemented.
Now, a large stage is already being built in the square, and lighting is being installed. Mobile toilets, additional trash cans, and new bike racks have also been installed there. Near the stairs, and near the public transport stop, there is a parking lot for people with individual needs, parents with strollers, and bicycle riders. The lawn is maintained in the square.
The new stage will be available to citizens and organizations that have submitted a request and coordinated the event with the city municipality. And the first event is already scheduled. The local community festival “Coexist” is inviting residents to inaugurate the space from 18 to 21 August.
The building will then serve as the site for a new museum dedicated to Finnish-Russian relations
Another piece in the overall strategy to reduce tourist flows to the city
The previous mayor was forced out of office following a no-confidence vote in the city council
In addition, the federal government has launched the National Week of Action against Bicycle Theft to raise awareness of the issue and the new solution
The facility will replace the need to have water supplied by tankers from Valencia
Modern traffic lights do more than regulate the flow of vehicles at crossroads, they also collect enormous amounts of data
It also set the standards for a better European parking card for people with disabilities
Everyone’s invited free of charge, but only after registration
Italian cities and regions continue experimenting with creative proposals to curb overtourism effects
It also set the standards for a better European parking card for people with disabilities
Italian cities and regions continue experimenting with creative proposals to curb overtourism effects
The building will then serve as the site for a new museum dedicated to Finnish-Russian relations
Urban dwellers across the EU are having a say in making their surroundings friendlier to people and the environment.
Forests in the EU can help green the European construction industry and bolster a continent-wide push for architectural improvements.
Apply by 10 November and do your part for the transformation of European public spaces
Catch up with some recommendations for the 2024 European Capital of Culture programme from the mayor of Tartu
An interview with the ICLEI regional director for Europe аfter the close of COP28
An interview with a member of the No Hate Speech Network team