Chemodanov, Roman S.
Kavkaz Forum. 2024. Issue 19.

Abstract:
The article examines urban space as an object of scientific study and as
a cultural and historical phenomenon. The identified problems are the topic of
philosophical, cultural, sociological discussions and are relevant today both in the
practice of forming a humane urban space and in the theory of various human
sciences. The purpose of the publication is to study the urban space of the resort
towns of the Caucasian Mineralnye Vody as a historical and cultural phenomenon
– the history of its formation, the specifics of development in various historical
eras. The practical significance of the study lies in the possibility of applying basic
historiosophical ideas when planning modern urban space. Based on the concept
of a systematic approach to understanding urban space as a combination of
nature, architecture and city residents, a brief overview of the formation of the
cities of Caucasian Mineralnye Vody in historical retrospect is carried out. It is
noted that the formation of the special atmosphere of the cities of this group was
determined, first of all, by their importance as resort cities. The use of mineral water
for treatment contributed to the formation of recreational complexes, and other
infrastructure facilities were formed around it. The special character of the resorts
contributed to cultural exchange, which was also reflected in the development of
the central part of the cities mainly by Italian architects. In Soviet times, the active
construction of sanatoriums, holiday homes and children’s health camps gave
the cities of the Caucasian Mineral Waters the final status of an all-Union health
resort. The diversity of cultures and traditions of numerous “resort guests” still
form the unique sociocultural image of the towns of Caucasian Mineralnye Vody.

Keywords: city, urban environment, urban space, history of the cities of the Caucasian Mineralnye Vody.

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