ABSTRACT
Over time the structure of an urban area passes through various developmental stages and is the consequence of the processes it undergoes. Closely associated with the morphology of any city are its past and present. This study focuses on urban morphology which is grounded in what is present in the visual built environment. The study follows a case-study approach and selects the city of Kolkata (previously Calcutta). By documenting its changing landmarks, an attempt has been made to analyze the changes that have occurred as the city evolved. The methodology adopted is historical analysis through narratives and historical maps of the city of Calcutta (now Kolkata). The study seeks to understand urban transformation by examining the historical factors leading to the origin of the settlement, identifying the historical nuclei and points of urban agglomeration, and the temporal morphology which remained constantly dynamic. Larger groups have always not been homogeneous and have been segregated on the basis of race, socioeconomic class, occupation, caste, sect or clan – and this has also found spatial expression in European towns, Native towns or in the form of neighborhoods. The article looks into this and much more.
