Book

How Do Cities Deal with Their Landscapes?

Prof. Dr. Muhammad Rashad bin Hasan Mufti

Publication date: July 22, 2026 23:11 KSA

Cities are not just concrete expanses spreading horizontally; they are a product of their geography and terrain. The land does not only determine the location of cities but also shapes their character. In many parts of the world, nature does not stop at city limits but permeates their details, history, and daily lives of their inhabitants. Geological features and surrounding rock formations are not silent factors; they are a destiny that has forged the identity of those cities and imposed its planning and economic conditions.

If we consider the Canary Islands, such as Lanzarote and Tenerife, or look at Iceland and the Hawaiian Islands, we find cities that did not arise far from volcanoes but formed and expanded in their vicinity, until volcanic landscapes became part of their geographical identity and daily scenery. Iceland as a whole, and its cities, is a major volcanic island. Here, geology becomes an integral part of daily life, a firm reality that cannot be changed, and a natural heritage that these cities deal with seriously.

Other cities like Auckland in New Zealand realized early on that the volcanic fields interspersed within them represent a heritage to be reconciled with. Residents learned to live with this history, developing proactive plans known as 'mitigation' to reduce the effects of any future activity or potential lava flows, turning risk into a state of conscious stability. It did not stop at coexistence and safety measures; this geological peculiarity turned into an astonishing economic driver. These cities understood that their volcanic landscapes are not a developmental obstacle but an invaluable tourism asset. By establishing integrated and protected 'geoparks,' they succeeded in creating global tourist destinations that attract millions of visitors. This smart utilization not only boosted the local economy through direct job creation but also spurred high-quality investments in infrastructure, such as luxury eco-lodges that provide exceptional accommodation experiences amidst lava fields and basalt formations. Thus, rock turned into sustainable wealth supporting the economy of these cities and placing them on the map of niche tourism. However, dealing with nature requires realism and understanding of its variations. Quiet volcanic activity differs entirely from high-risk sites. Therefore, some modern cities rely on early warning systems and advanced technology to accurately monitor any geological changes. This proactive scientific approach ensures the protection of lives and reduces material losses, facilitating safe evacuation during emergencies. Ultimately, geology is not just geography surrounding humans; it is the pulse that directs the rhythm of development and shapes sources of income. Living alongside it and investing in it wisely within realistic planning represents the highest form of human adaptation, where earth's features transform from mere terrain into identity and wealth that grant cities survival and prosperity.

Cities Landscapes Volcanoes Geology Tourism Development Economy Investment