STREETS
the opposite side of the street to pick it up and reflect it. Such reflection of major elements in the street scene is termed ‘inflection’. Where possible, both sides of the street should progress in unison rather like a complex dance routine where the detailed choreography of the group recognizes and follows the movements of the others. In this way it becomes possible to think in terms of visually literate streets governed by a recognizable grammar where inflection is important for achieving unity. It is a pleasure to admire the informal charm of the meandering street or to be carried long in excited anticipation of picturesque views unfolding round each corner and through unexpected alleyways to left or right. After further study it is possible to distinguish some important factors that have conditioned the development of the scene as presented. Many of these factors are of a thoroughly practical nature such as the form of the land, the order of development, evolving exploitation of the local environment, changing social stratification and patterns of population distribution. Knowledge of these practical factors does not however detract from an aesthetic appreciation of present physical structure, but enhances understanding by relating form with function – using function here in the widest meaning of that term. Many of the lovely Italian hill towns are ideal subject matter for such a study and would be amply rewarding for the researcher’s efforts. For present purposes only the development of two small Italian hill towns, San Giorgio Morgeto in the province of Calabria and Montepulciano will be outlined briefly to show the relationship between street form and some of the formative influences that have contributed to the present delightful streets that capture the imagination of the visitor. It is maintained here that only by a study of this nature can the designer fully appreciate the present structure and that appreciation is necessary before any valid proposals can be made for its change and development. Figure 5.33 San Giorgio Morgeto
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