In the engineering thesis “Back to the Future”: Łęczyca in “slow” rhythm: the harmony of history and modernity, Szymon Klepacz, a studentin the spatial planning program at the Institute of Architecture and Urban Planning at the Lodz University of Technology ,developed a concept for the revitalization ofthe historic center of Łęczyca. He prepared the thesis under the supervision of Dr. Eng. Arch. Adriana Cieślak-Arkuszewska. The author seeks ways to restore the Old Town’s appeal and local character by combining heritage preservation with the principles of the Cittaslow movement and the Historic Urban Landscape (HUL)methodology .
Project Concept © Szymon Klepacz 
The Historic Center as a StartingPoint
Szymon Klepacz’s concept is based on the premise that the development of a small town does not necessarily entail a radical reconstruction of its historic structure. It is essential to recognize the value of the existing urban layout , preserved buildings, public spaces ,and connections between different parts of the city.
Among other things , the author analyzed the layout of the market square, the structure of the city blocks , and the locations where the continuity of the street frontage has been interrupted . He also identified opportunities to improve pedestrian connections between the market square and important public facilities located outside the immediate city center. This analysis served as the basis for seeking solutions that could redirect residents’ activity back toward the Old Town.
flower-filled ground floor © Szymon Klepacz 
Cittaslow and theHistoric UrbanLandscape
The study employed two approaches to shaping space. The first is the Cittaslow concept , which promotes quality of life, local identity, and development tailored to the city’s scale . The second is the concept ofthe Historic Urban Landscape (HUL), which treats heritage as a complex system encompassing not only historic buildings but also public spaces , the landscape , and spatialrelationships .
Combining these perspectives allows us to view Łęczyca as a city whose historical structure can serve as a resource for further development. Rather than focusing exclusively on individual structures, the author analyzes the functioning ofthe entire downtown area and explores ways to improve its accessibility, attractiveness , and connections to the surrounding area.
Memorial Square © Szymon Klepacz 
What changes could revitalize theOld Town?
Among the directions proposed in the thesis are calming vehicular traffic , developing blue-green infrastructure, and creating spaces that foster social interaction and local integration. Another key element of the concept is improving pedestrian routes connecting the market square with administrative buildings and publicservices .
One example is the idea of strengthening connections between the market square and City Hall and the District Court . Making these routes more attractive could encourage residents to walk through the historic center more often . The author also highlights the possibility of restoring the market square’s commercial and social functions , including through small-scale crafts and temporary events . These efforts would be complemented by the introduction of green and water-based features ,as well as the rehabilitation of degraded sections of the built environment.
pond © Szymon Klepacz 
Revitalization with Residentsin Mind
In Szymon Klepacz’s work , revitalization means not only improving the appearance of a space but also changing the way it is used. The historic center is to once again become a place for everyday activities, gatherings , and local entrepreneurship. The proposed directions for development combine the preservation of urban heritage with the needs ofcontemporary users.
sensory trail © Szymon Klepacz 
The concept demonstrates how urban planning analyses can be used to formulate concrete proposals for change. In the case of Łęczyca , the starting point is to leverage the city’s existing assets , fill in missing spatial connections ,and create conditions for amore user-friendly historic center.
