Abstract
<jats:p>The article is devoted to studying the influence of fortification-based urban planning on the formation of the spatial structure of Uralsk city. The relevance of the research is determined by the need to understand historical models of urban spatial organization for the development of modern, sustainable, and functionally efficient urban planning solutions. The study covers the main stages of the city’s development from the 17th to the 19th century, including the ostrog, fortress, and regular planning periods. These historical stages formed a unique planning framework, defining the arrangement of streets, central squares, and administrative buildings, and creating a basis for the modern urban activity zones. The methodological framework includes comparative, systemic, morphological, and functional-spatial analyses, as well as cartographic studies using GIS data and historical plans. The study uses historical and archival materials, normative planning documents, publications on urban studies, and modern digital technologies.The results demonstrate that elements of the former fortress continue to influence the modern city structure: transport “rings” follow the lines of old defensive fortifications, the historical core maintains functional and cultural significance, and natural barriers determine directions for new territorial development. Contemporary urban issues were also identified, including spatial fragmentation, lack of public spaces, and ecological constraints.The conclusions emphasize the importance of fortification heritage as a foundation of urban identity and its potential for strategic urban planning, integrating modern technologies, and sustainable urban development. </jats:p>