Diversity of gentrification in the inner cities of Rīga and Prague – the case of Āgenskalns and Holešovice

Abstract

This paper analyses gentrification from two perspectives cultural consumption and changes in population composition as observed in two inner-city neighbourhoods that are gentrifying, Āgenskalns in Rīga and Holešovice in Prague. Both quantitative and qualitative methods were employed such as field study and observation, Census data analysis, interview, analysis of reviews on internet platforms, as well as the mapping of results. The study revealed that both neighbourhoods experienced an influx of young and educated residents. It was also concluded that both neighbourhoods experienced major changes in the APPRECIATING GEOGRAPHY: LOCAL AND GLOBAL SCALE 146 cultural scene over the past years, turning from being once neglected to now very hip areas. The study also showed that Holešovice is more popular among foreigners than Āgenskalns. The findings suggest that the location of newly opened places in both neighbourhoods follows concentrated patterns.