The influence of natural spatial determinants on urban development of medieval Bydgoszcz

Abstract

Bydgoszcz, a medium-sized Central European city, now occupies an area of 176 square kilometers, which in reference to its original historical dimensions is an expansion of more than 1,000 times. A distinctive feature of the location of the city is the fact that it was founded at the meeting point of geographical regions and trade routes crossing in the area, running from Kuyavia to Pomerania; and two rivers - the Brda and the Vistula. They have a direct impact on physiography of the area and outline the waterway, which played the key role in successful development of the city. The most important factors that served as basis for urban development were natural conditions, analyzed in terms of the influence of nature on establishing of a settlement. Natural environment is a complex of factors that are closely interrelated. A town is a new component that should be blended in the existing terrain and in places, where it is not possible, conversions should be con[1]ducted for the needs of urban planning. Analyzing the impact of natural terrain conditions on the medieval spatial layout of Bydgoszcz, the study indicated the role of its geographical location and in-depth analysis of its physiographic conditions. It also described processes forming topography, with particular focus on the municipal Brda River valley. The study specified local water conditions and the known interferences conducted in the natural hydrographic system. The author also showed a possible location of the old meanders of the Brda River and the medieval layout of islets surrounding the newly founded city. The described components of natural environment, which consisted of topography, superficial geological structure and hydrographic system, along with groundwater flow, had the biggest impact on establishing and spatial development of the city founded in the Middle Ages. During establishing and formation of the medieval city of Bydgoszcz, the main role was played by the existing hydrographic network, which was developed by the Brda River. It was important in both microscale and macroscale, in the spatial and land-use aspects. The river fulfilled different functions in the local community, serving also as a basic factor in municipal topography, taken into account in construction planning. It was also a natural barrier, but created territorial limitations as well. Its economic exploitation made it subject to numerous interferences conducted by Bydgoszcz residents and the most effective utilization of its undeniable assets. The take[1]over and taming of the land that was previously controlled by the river was related to its anthropogenic transformation. The medieval city was originated on a small peninsula occupying about ten hectares of land, which became a manmade island after digging of the southern moat. It featured such buildings as the parish church with a cemetery, a market square and a town hall, parcels of townsmen with individualized houses, closed with the city walls serving as the southern fortifications. The Brda River was a natural barrier protecting Bydgoszcz from the north and west, and a fortified castle defended the city from the east. The waterway network developed by the river was used for both defensive and economic purposes.