How did Italian rule change Eritrea’s cities and transportation systems?

Under Italian colonial rule, Eritrea experienced significant urban and infrastructural development that fundamentally altered the region's landscape.

Urban Development

Prior to Italian colonization, urban centers were restricted to the Red Sea coast, with no towns existing on the Eritrean plateau. Under Italian administration, the urban sector flourished:
* Asmara was transformed into a city designed in a Mediterranean style.12
* The port of Massawa was modernized, and the port of Asseb saw significant improvements.12
* Numerous smaller towns were established across the plateau.12
* Land appropriation for Italian use and rapid population growth stimulated a migration of Eritrean farmers to these expanding cities, which eventually fostered the development of an Eritrean working class.12

Transportation Systems

To support the colony, the Italians implemented new transportation networks:
* Extensive road and rail construction projects were undertaken to link the various regions of the colony.12
* These developments facilitated connectivity between the interior plateau and the coastal ports, serving as a foundation for the colony's infrastructure.12

While these changes modernized the physical landscape, it is important to note that these investments were largely intended to serve colonial interests, and the local population faced significant marginalization, including land shortages and negligible investment in their education.12