The Small Scale of Things: Emerging Spatial Culture in 19th Century Al Bidda and Doha in Qatar

Abstract

This paper undertakes a spatial archaeology exercise using space syntax. It examines the settlement layouts of Al Bidda and Doha based on the historical record of Guy and Brucks 1823 trigonometrical plan. In doing so, we briefly review the history of Al Bidda, Doha, and Qatar before the 20th century. The paper also discusses the tendency in the literature to focus on European and American settlement forms, including the formative years of space syntax during the 1970s and 1980s. We deploy space syntax analysis using least-line and all-lines axial analysis and Visibility Graph Analysis (VGA). The aim is to understand the emergent spatial structure and probable functioning of Al Bidda and Doha in 1823. Our analysis relies on the space syntax measures of global choice and integration, supplemented with metric distance via pedestrian sheds and metric step depth shortest path length in VGA analysis to argue that the layouts of Al Bidda and Doha in 1823 represent two distinct models of settlement form, despite their causal similarities. Al Bidda has a classic center-to-edge spatial structure, assimilating visitors and residents similarly within its layout. Doha has an edge in hierarchal spatial structure, fostering privacy for residents within the layout. These models are generally endemic to pre-Islamic and Islamic norms. They underscore essential differences between insiders or residents and outsiders and visitors in these settlements' socioeconomic and cultural activities. We conclude that Guy and Brucks 1823 trigonometrical plan represents a critical inflection point in the history of Qatar, with implications for subsequent urban development and the rapid urbanization of Doha in the 20th century. In doing so, we highlight the significant findings of this research and its relevance to the historical study of settlements in the Middle East and GCC regions.