Review article

The article considers the formation of the city planning structure of Orenburg, the dynamics of changes in the main squares located within the historical fortress, and their formation features. The main regularities are revealed that should become the basis of city design at the present stage of the city planning, taking into account the principle of cultural heritage continuity. Preserving the unique atmosphere of the city squares would make it possible solving the actual problems of the urban environment individualization and developing of the city-forming profile in the current socio-economic situation.