Region

A region is basically defined as a distinct part of the earth’s surface. A regional analysis includes both the area differentiation, at various scales, and the explanation of physical and human factors interacting to determine the spatial organization. Regionalization depends on diverse objectives and criteria. Three basic types of regions could be differentiated: a homogeneous region, defined by a single dominating attribute, such as natural regions or those characterized by a dominant economic activity (industrial or touristic); a functional region, unified by spatial interrelationships and flows; and a political-administrative region.

Since the mid-twentieth century, regional analysis has been enriched through various epistemological and disciplinary approaches (Entrikin 2008). The neo-Marxist perspective emphasizes the spatial organization resulting from production relationships; humanist schools of thought focus more on places as a source of cultural identification; the...