Analysis of the Spatial Reconfiguration of Urban Squares through Movement Network Analysis (Space Syntax): A Case Study of Al-Nisour Square

Abstract

   Contemporary cities face rapid morphological transformations driven by transportation infrastructure expansion, particularly bridges and tunnels aimed at improving traffic efficiency. These interventions often fragment urban open spaces, especially squares serving as central nodes in the urban movement network. Al-Nisour Square in Baghdad exemplifies this, having been transformed from a horizontally integrated urban space into a multi-level traffic system, weakening its role in supporting movement and social interaction.The study hypothesizes that infrastructure-driven morphological restructuring disrupts spatial configuration, leading to declining integration, reduced intelligibility, and a shift in movement centrality from ground level to elevated infrastructure. The research aims to analyze these transformations and measure changes in movement centrality within the urban network.A quantitative approach based on Space Syntax was adopted. The pre-transformation axial model was reconstructed using Google Earth imagery and redrawn in AutoCAD, while the current model was developed by separating ground level, bridge, and tunnel layers. Connectivity, Integration, Choice, and Intelligibility indicators were applied.Results reveal a clear shift in movement centrality toward bridges and tunnels, accompanied by declining ground-level integration. The study recommends balancing traffic efficiency with spatial structure preservation, reactivating the ground level, and enhancing its integration within the broader urban network.

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