Assessing urban–rural classification methods in different territories

This paper investigates the diversity of territorial representations resulting from different methods used to identify urban, rural and intermediate territories in European countries. The current debate about territorial delimitation revolves around two contrasting approaches: sophisticated techniques that capture local territorial nuances or harmonised methods that prioritise international comparability. Using Lombardy as a case study, this paper demonstrates how different classification methods produce different territorial representations. Discrepancies stem from the selection of variables, spatial unit delineation and the number of territories identified. Such variations can significantly impact the proportion of local population included in each territorial class and consequently affect eligibility for place-based policies. Moreover, differences also exist between locally relevant and harmonised methods. The former reveal greater territorial complexity, while the latter provide broader, less detailed territorial classifications, bringing significant implications for both policy design and spatial planning. The adoption of one method over another requires reflection on contemporary spatial and functional disparities, as well as on distinct institutional configurations.