Athens menu
Introduction
The Letter of Athens is a fundamental document in the history of urban planning of the century that collects the conclusions of the IV International Congress of Modern Architecture (CIAM), in 1933. Published around 1942 in a version edited by Le Corbusier, it constitutes one of the most influential manifestos of functionalist urbanism and modern planning. The text proposes a comprehensive reorganization of the city based on hygiene criteria, functional rationalization and zoning, and significantly influenced post-war urban strategies.[1].
Historical Context
During the 1920s and 1930s, European industrial cities faced serious problems related to density, unhealthiness, and lack of adequate housing. In this context, CIAM emerged, founded in 1928 with the aim of developing a modern theory of architecture and urban planning.[1].
The IV Congress, held aboard the ship Patris II, brought together delegates from different countries who systematically analyzed the urban situation of several European cities. These investigations included data on density, housing, mobility and public space. The conclusions were intended to form a common text that should guide the rational planning of the modern city.[1].
Manifesto content
The Athens Charter dedicates a large part of its content to the function of “inhabiting”, which for the CIAM should become the core of modern urbanism. The manifesto maintains that the home should be located in the most favorable locations in the territory, taking into account criteria such as topography, natural lighting, cross ventilation and the presence of green areas.[2].
It proposes a functional separation of places of residence, leisure and work, calling into question the character and density of the traditional city. This treaty proposes the placement of buildings in large, sparse green areas. The articles of the Charter are accompanied by explanations written by Le Corbusier and by Jeanne de Villeneuve"), Baroness d'Aubigny.[3].
The location of residential neighborhoods must take advantage of the most suitable locations within the urban space, taking into account the topography, climatic conditions, the incidence of sunlight and the inclusion of green areas whenever possible. The selection of housing areas must be based on hygienic criteria, in order to protect the health and well-being of the inhabitants. Likewise, it is recommended to establish reasonable densities, adjusted to the forms of housing determined by the nature of the land, avoiding congestion and favoring the quality of the living space.