This research study understands insurrections as the result of more or less violent actions of groups against agents of state power, which might also lead to a revolution, i.e. the attempt to overthrow the central authorities. Specifically, it studies urban insurgencies as an transnational and diachronic phenomenon that emerged during the period of intense urbanization in the 19th century and has tra up to the present day, in order to approach the complex, political, social, racial, religious and other dynamics that trigger urban insurgencies. The main research objective is to explore the central role of architecture: as a field of subversion of the bourgeoisie and a means of supporting revolt, but also as a tool of repression.

By analysing specific cases of urban uprisings in different time periods and different geographical contexts, this research aims to investigate, highlight and understand common practices of rebellion and repression. In particular, it studies urban uprisings and their practices in 17th and 19th century Paris, focusing on the events of the Paris Commune (1870) and the more recent case of the May 1968. Also, it explores the contemporary case of social conflicts in December 2008 in Athens which followed the murder of the young student Alexandros Grigoropoulos. The research methodology relies on the analysis and processing of information from relevant bibliography, primary archival material, including social media posts and photographic material published online. At the same time, through the visualization of the collected information, mainly in the form of maps and diagrams, this study aims at a deeper understanding of the practices of rebellion and repression, highlighting their architectural impact in the urban environment. This research aims, ultimately, to shed light on the inseparable and interdependent connection between riots, and their suppression efforts, and the qualitative architectural characteristics of the background in which they occur.