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Versatile green: an alternative perspective on urban green space in late nineteenth-century Antwerp

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  09 September 2014

BART TRITSMANS*
Affiliation:
University of Antwerp – Centre for Urban History, Prinsstraat 13 room D-318, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium

Abstract

This article argues that a one-sided focus on official sources has dominated historical research on urban green space. The absence of the users’ perspective obscures a substantial part of its significance. This article, which aims at complementing rather than contradicting existing research, will show that the different perspectives and practices of city dwellers widen our understanding of the history of urban green spaces. The article will also consider the value of often marginalized, unofficial green spaces like ramparts and wastelands at the urban fringe.

Type
Research Article
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 2014 

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