Quarteirões

Quarteirões are a fundamental urban planning concept, referring to a block or a city block, which is a small urban area surrounded by streets. The term is most commonly used in Portuguese-speaking countries, particularly Brazil and Portugal. A quarteirão typically contains a group of buildings, open spaces, or a combination of both, and serves as a basic unit for land subdivision and street layout within a city. Historically, the size and shape of quarteirões have varied significantly depending on the era of urban development, architectural styles, and local regulations. In many older European cities, quarteirões might be irregular and densely built, while in more modern urban planning, they are often designed with more regularity and may incorporate green spaces or be of a more uniform size. The concept of the quarteirão influences pedestrian movement, traffic flow, and the overall character of a neighborhood. It is also a common unit used in addressing and navigation within urban environments.