Mental maps, generational insights and symbols of urban spaces in a Romanian context

Abstract This paper contributes to the field of urban mental geography by studying the perception of urban spaces in Timisoara, Romania. It does so through an analysis of mental maps drawn by 559 survey respondents, and a qualitative analysis of these urban mental maps. The aim of this study is to identify patterns and discrepancies in the representations of urban space across different age groups. The findings suggest that children and the elderly typically map smaller areas of their daily existence, while adults have a clearer and broader image of the city. Furthermore, young adults more frequently recall recreational spaces such as clubs and restaurants, while older adults recall sports facilities and cultural spaces more. Finally, the analysis led to the establishment of a hierarchy of urban symbols, indicating that Timișoara continues to serve as one of Romania's multifunctional attraction poles due to the range and diversity of its urban symbols. As respondents associated affective elements and brands with the city, the urban brands most often recalled were the local brands. These findings are valuable for understanding urban image and community-space interactions, and they contribute insights for age-inclusive urban planning.