An urban settlement is defined as a densely populated area that can manifest in various forms, ranging from towns to massive metropolitan areas.
According to the A Dictionary of Environment and Conservation, an urban settlement is:
A densely populated settlement, which can take the form of a town, city, metropolis, conurbation, megalopolis, or world city.
This contrasts with a rural settlement, which is typically characterized by lower population density and a landscape dominated by agriculture or natural environments.
Forms of Urban Settlements
Urban settlements are diverse in their scale and complexity. The reference highlights several key types, representing different stages of urban development and size:
- Town: Generally larger than a village but smaller than a city, with a significant non-agricultural population.
- City: A large and permanent settlement with a substantial population and developed infrastructure, often serving as a center for commerce, culture, and governance.
- Metropolis: A very large city, often the economic and cultural center of a country or region. It may include surrounding suburbs and satellite cities.
- Conurbation: A region comprising a number of cities, large towns, and other urban areas that have merged to form one continuous urban area.
- Megalopolis: A chain of metropolitan areas that have grown until they almost merge, forming a nearly continuous urban region. Examples include the BosWash corridor in the northeastern United States.
- World City (or Global City): A city considered to be an important node in the global economic system, characterized by significant influence in global affairs through finance, law, political activities, media, and cultural exchange.
These forms represent a spectrum of urban density, size, and influence, all falling under the umbrella term of 'urban settlement' due to their shared characteristic of being densely populated settlements.
Urban settlements are focal points for human activity, economic development, and infrastructure. Understanding their nature and variations is crucial for urban planning, environmental conservation, and studying human geography.
