The Welcome of European Cities and Towns

I. Smaller Scale

In a general sense everything was, simply, closer to human size, a scale that the individual could relate to. The buildings were smaller, the roads narrower, and proportions of the buildings were scaled down.  Huge blank walls didn't create overpowering barriers.  There were no wide streets with lane after lane of traffic to navigate.  This scale encouraged people to interact with their surroundings and take notice. 

Old Streets of Le Mans

These narrow streets are scaled around a person rather than a vehicle.  It is more comfortable to walk down such a street without feeling overwhelmed. 

Stairways of Mont St. Michel

Back alleys and stairs wound between the buildings, away from the main traffic.  Each courtyard or landing was like being in a small outdoor room.

Detail of a Le Mans home

Details on these old homes allow you to enjoy the process of walking because there is so much to look at.  Contrast this with walking along the blank wall of a concrete shopping center, which reminds you only that you are still walking.

Detail of the Louvre

Even large buildings, such as the Louvre, had detailing that reduced the massiviness of the building.  There are smaller things to look at as one walks along the facade.

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