What term describes the avenues and spaces reserved for civic and religious functions in an orthogonal city planning?

The term that best describes the avenues and spaces reserved for civic and religious functions in an orthogonal city planning is public squares. Public squares serve as focal points within urban environments, designed to accommodate gatherings, ceremonies, markets, and other communal activities, reinforcing the social fabric of the community. In this context, they are essential for the organization of civic life and the expression of cultural identity.

Unlike the other options, which may pertain to different elements of urban design, public squares specifically denote open spaces crafted for public use and engagement, directly tied to civic and religious happenings. Civic areas could be seen as a broader category that might include administrative buildings, but it does not specifically highlight the open, communal spaces. Streets, while critical for movement and access, do not inherently provide the space for civic and religious activities. Commemorative spaces, though they may serve significant functions, typically refer to sites of remembrance rather than the more general gathering places implied by public squares. Thus, public squares accurately encapsulate the intended function within orthogonal city planning.