Mental Maps: The Method’s Limitations and a “Strange” Image in a Small Town

Abstract

In this paper the author describes the relationship between the methodological possibilities andlimitations of mental maps and the size of urban communities where the method isused. To illustrate the findings, the author compares three Russian cities: Moscow, Kimry, and Myshkin. From this analysis the author concludes that generalized elements of cities’ mental images must be supplemented with their exogenous descriptions (out-descriptions, brand images) that allow to delineate territorial boundaries and a semantic form of imaginary city. In Russian.