This thesis is inserted in the debate about density, urban form and spatial quality. It intends to contribute in the study of Urbanity, the dimensions it involves and methods to evaluate and achieve it in an adequate level in cities, especially in the context of developing countries. The aim of this research is in one hand to discuss how the construction (historical, cultural and institutional) of the space of the city of Recife performs as a City in the sense of place to meet and exchange and on the other hand how that performance can be improved through planning as the city continuously evolves. In an enlarged view, this study sheds light on the relevance of planning instruments and ultimately in the role of Urbanism and the limitations and possibilities it faces when addressing the processes behind the evolution of cities.