The paper presents the initial model proposed for the Gaia Digital project. This three-year project is currently starting off within the Portugal Digital Initiative, within the Information Society operation program framework. It provides a digital city counterpart for Vila Nova de Gaia, with around 288000 inhabitants, considering 2001 figures. The Gaia Digital model is briefly described and its main concepts are introduced such as the action areas and the notions of square, building, roads, and citizens. The Gaia Digital project is focused in offering an environment to involve as much as possible both the local population and other people interacting with Gaia related and/or based activities. Additionally, Gaia Digital adopts a social approach to the digital cities concept where technology follows information needs and information just exists to support people interaction.
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