Managing urban space towards intercultural and sustainable cities : A case study of the neighborhood Arcella, Padua

The descending slope of the bridge lets the bike smoothly enter in a new urban realm. The noise of the trains from the nearby station accompanies the slalom among people that walk and linger in front of the shops lined up next to the sidewalk. A kebab, a Romanian grocery shop, a café, colorful vegetables and fruits on display, a shop-window packed with “African” products. Across the roundabout, the sight of a mural is visible through the bustle of cars, bikes and trams on the street. A hand points, or tries to grasp, a flock of butterflies and the sky. On the same yellowish wall, two enigmatic figures with beaks watch over the lively crossroad. The sight of the tall tower bell of the oldest church in the neighborhood helps finding the way. The park where the bike stops is shaded by tall trees. Women with veils chat and observe their children playing. On the close sport-field, young Philippines play basket and listen to music. In the other field, other young people play football. Some people read and talk sitting on the benches, while some exercise and others take a nap on the grass. Voices that speak different languages cross the air of the park.