THE PROCESS OF URBANIZATION AND URBAN PATTERNS IN THE DELTA OF THE AMAZON RIVER: AN AXIAL ANALYSIS

The process of urbanization significantly influenced the patterns of settlement across the Amazon region between 1974 and 2010. In our study, we analysed 34 small cities located in the delta of the Amazon River, focusing on the importance of historical factors, as well as the unique function and role of each city within both the local and regional context. This research aimed to understand how historical influences, geographic characteristics, and urban functions impacted the development and organization of these cities over time. The results demonstrated a notable shift in settlement patterns, with city growth increasingly following the contours of newly developed roads and, in some cases, riverbanks. This trend, in turn, influenced the spatial organization and architectural forms of urban areas, as infrastructure development played a defining role. The findings highlight the close connection between urbanization processes, infrastructure expansion, and the evolving landscape of urban forms in the Amazon region.