Exploring the Spatial and Social Journeys of the Roma Ghettoized Structures in Northwestern Bulgaria

In the post-socialist era, socio-spatial polarization has emerged in Northwestern Bulgaria, driven by income inequality and ethnicity. The Roma population in this region faces severe ghettoization, experiencing limited access to essential services, poor living conditions, and socioeconomic marginalization. Roma neighborhoods are rapidly changing, often hidden from local authorities. This phenomenon aligns with theories like “divided cities” and “dual cities,” which describe urban polarization and socio-spatial disparities. This study investigates the Roma ghettoized structures in Vidin district in northwestern Bulgaria using orthophoto images and in-depth interviews with local authorities. Remote sensing methods reveal the evolving landscape, highlighting physical changes in the neighborhoods. In-depth interviews shed light on contemporary demographic trends hampered by data scarcity at local and national levels. The findings indicate the concentrated Roma populations in impoverished socially excluded areas with limited access to services. Ghettoization results from various factors. The primary aim of this article is to examine spatial growth patterns and the internal configuration of Roma neighborhoods. This analysis focuses on the case study of the Nov pat quarter, inhabited by Roma people, within the city of Vidin. The study employs a combination of remote sensing techniques and on-site field research methods for a comprehensive exploration. The study analyzes the spatial and social dimensions by emphasizing the urgent need for policies addressing ghettoization’s root causes.