swept under - looking under the surface of a city

Each city has a certain image, representing its identity - but what makes up this image? In his book “Invisible Cities”Italo Calvino describes the city of Eudoxia, which is displayed and represented on a carpet. The carpet takes on the role of a canvas portraying the image of the city. Incorporating Kevin Lynch’s theory of the 5 keypoints of architecture this thesis aims to provide an answer to the question how the image of a city is shaped through the perceptions of its observers. By conducting a modernized elaboration of Lych’s research the subject of interest is moved from the USA to Europe - the city of Lisbon is being dissected and analysed. Through a conducted survey questioning memories as well as expectations of the city, the contemporary image of Lisbon could be detected. Lisbon, being one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe, is reaping the benefits as well as facing the problems that go along with mass tourism. Gentrification, overtourism and forced displacement are influencing the quality of life of the residents, but are mostly being ignored by tourists and neglected by the government. As if they were being swept under the carpet. This thesis is an example of the maximized and touristificated Lisbon that could emerge if no further action is taken. A faux image of a city that could turn into reality.