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LANs Top 100 Squares series has been inspired by the recent events in Cairo and Taksim Square.   These current demonstrations show the world the power of people and the power of public space. As such, public squares or plazas are the centre of the urban world and of huge resonance in our daily lives. Whilst the two above events have been on a very serious note, public spaces also provide enjoyment for the everyday individual. What better way to celebrate life, freedom and city life than in a festival?   So read on to see ten of the best festival squares…. 10. Bristo Square, Edinburgh, Scotland Bristo Square, Edinburgh, Scotland Although the world famous Edinburgh Fringe Festival is dotted around the city, it would be fair to say that Bristo Square is the hub, with the adjacent George Square forming a hybrid festival square. Situated in the centre of Edinburgh Old Town and surrounded by three venues – the magnificent Teviot House, the grandiose McEwan Hall and the ...

The recent protests in Taksim Square, Istanbul, and those in Tahrir Square, Cairo, have once again highlighted the power of public space as a tool of protest. The use of public space has always been employed as way to reflect the economical and socio-political mood. Yet, public space is a fragile thing. The London Occupy Movement highlighted that our public space may not be as public as we think, when protesters were prevented from entering Paternoster Square by a high court injunction taken out by the  owners. Public space is important because it is supposed to be just that. Public. For you, and me, and the person sitting next to you. It represents our rights, and in all the above cases the right to political protest. The architectural emblem of society in all its guises — economics, politics, protest, food, fun, and enjoyment and at the same time, the arena for all these constructs is, the public square. In what will culminate as Landscape Architects Network’s Top 10...