In this episode, architect and urban planner Thomas Stellmach joins Tim Pritlove to explore the history of cities—from the first urban settlements in the ancient Near East through antiquity, the Roman Empire, the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, and into modern times. They also discuss the pressing challenges of urban planning today and the solutions needed for the future.
“Since humans transitioned from a nomadic lifestyle to settled agriculture, cities have played a central role in shaping our civilization—and their importance continues to grow in the 21st century.
Today, cities stand at the crossroads of major ecological, economic, and social challenges. They must not only mitigate crises but also foster innovation to navigate growth, climate change, and societal shifts.
