Reconstruction through memory building and re-functioning buildings with public access

Year 2023, Volume: 2 Issue: 4, 1 - 22, 25.10.2023

Ola Hayo , Rukiye Çetin

Abstract

Historic buildings are an essential part of collective memory. Collective memory plays a major role in the recovery of the community in a post-conflict city. It is also a part of preserving the identity of the city, and therefore it should be sustained. Nowadays, with the increasing number of wars and conflicts, historic buildings are exposed to damage. Occasionally, the approach to the reconstruction process can result in harm to the collective memory due to a deficiency of knowledge and experience. The study inquires about the appropriate approach to address the collective memories of historic post-war/conflict structures. It is discussed whether the reconstruction of these buildings can be used as a tool for the recovery of society. One of the approaches to achieving this is public participation. The reconstruction of the Dar al-fatwa building in the historic city center of Aleppo was examined within this context. Suggestions were made depending on the prior analysis. Eventually, more effective scenarios for refurbishing the Dar Al Fatwa building by considering memory parameters and public access were created; thus, the potential to contribute to community recovery was increased.

Keywords

Historic building, collective memory, community recovery, public access, re-function

Supporting Institution

YILDIRIM BEYAZIT UNIVERSITY

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