Development and Construction Practice of Auroville—A Continuous Exploration of Material and Spirit

Auroville is recognized as one of the earliest, internationally endorsed collective experiment in humanhabitat. It aims to demonstrate how urban&rural areas can develop in a holistic and complementary way, and how human and nature can coexist in a harmony way. Through on-site researchesof Pondicherry and Auroville, this paper reviews the historical development from the establishment of Pondicherry as a colonial city to the inauguration of Auroville as a universal township. It discusses the characteristics, achievements, and lessons in the development and construction of Auroville, and its significance and reference for the development of township and rural areasin developing countries.