In-between stability and subtle changes: urban growth, population structure, and the city life cycle in Rome

This study analyses the redistribution (1871–2011) of population along the urban gradient in Rome, Italy, in the light of the urban life cycle theory, together with an in-depth analysis of changes in population structure by age (1971–2011). Results identify (i) a typical urbanisation phase until 1971, (ii) a phase of rapid suburbanisation between 1971 and 1991 slowing down in the following 10 years, and (iii) a phase of re-urbanisation in the last 10 years. Changes in the spatial distribution of population indicators highlight moderate rearrangements determining a more balanced age structure during the suburbanisation phase and demographically polarised settlements during the re-urbanisation phase. On the basis of peculiar population dynamics found in the study area, the analysis performed brings useful insights on the debate over the future development of large Mediterranean cities.