A public square is the center of a city, a pole that attracts people and offers a place for them to rest. It is an integral part of the city that has roles and functions that alternate with the passing of time. They act as cores of the urban space and reflect our society. There are however, many different types of squares, as we encounter them in the urban environment. The successful function of a square, depends on a variety of factors, both morphological and social. In this research, the squares are the object of observation, in order to objectively evaluate their function, based on a set of criteria that are widely accepted.

During the research, evaluation criteria were found for the public space and, more specifically, for the squares. Then, a group of criteria that were formed from the PPS organization was selected and analyzed. These criteria are anthropocentric, which means, they do not relate to the physical characteristics of a square, but their main factor is the user. Subsequently, follows the application of these principles in three examples in Greece. In the form of an on-site observation, mapping and quantification of the results were carried out at Katraki Square in Glyfada, Eleftherias Square in Volos and at Emilios Square in Grevena.

After comparing the results, some general conclusions emerged. The chosen criteria do not all have the same importance, so they have been separated into primary and secondary ones. In conclusion, for the optimal functioning of a public square it is necessary to present all the principles, as they interact with each other and the absence of one influences the rest.