The structural features of all Newar settlements, big or small, are rows of closely built houses on both sides, with wide roads, alleys, crossroads, courtyards, etc., built primarily as part of an urban market system. In addition, the matching architectural style of the houses, and the presence of courtyards, bahals (monastery courtyards), sattahs (public rest houses), phalchas (open resting places), and dabuhs (platforms for public gatherings) were all integral parts of urban civilization. Furthermore, the scientifically arranged facilities for water and drainage for the people also became a mark of urban civilization.
Newar settlements are also among the oldest urban civilizations in the world, alongside Rome, Greece, and Harappa.
