Introduction
The devastating earthquake that struck Kahramanmaras, Turkey on February 6 caught the nation off guard, leaving behind shattered hearts and lost cities. Among the hardest-hit areas were Diyarbakır, Gaziantep, Maraş, and Hatay, cities known for their rich material culture, social patterns, and vibrant rituals. Over the years, the organic and low-rise urban fabric of these cities fostered the formation of close-knit neighborhoods and collaborative communities. It was the cultural development and sensitivity that enabled Hatay to have a church just under a mosque and it was the neighborhood culture and hospitality that made Gaziantep a renowned gastronomy hub. These cities, within the earthquake zone, possess a distinct sense of place and context that must not be overlooked during the process of redevelopment and revitalization. In addition to their cultural heritage, the residents of these cities embody unique characteristics, preferences, lifestyles, and visions. It is therefore crucial to engage in critical discussions and comprehensive research before embarking on design and proposal efforts. It is believed that the success of plans led by the government, municipalities, and NGOs will rely on a deep understanding of the zone’s characteristics and the implementation of strong ideas and studies that align with its essence.
The Limits and Scope of “ARCH418: Case Studies in Architectural Criticism” Class
Throughout the semester, the “Case Studies in Architectural Criticism” course provided a platform for in-depth discussions, comparisons, and critical analyses of earthquake zones, supported by case studies and examples. This approach offered a broad foundation of examples, ideas, and proposals, stimulating critical discourse among students. By examining common patterns, built environments, contextual relationships, and cultural rituals, we gained a comprehensive understanding of the larger context. Our research and discussions delved into the memories and identities that shaped each place within the earthquake zone. We explored the impact of water, walls, city centers, slums, and neighborhoods on the overall sense of place and the built environment surrounding them. Recognizing that urban transformation plays a critical role in addressing the challenges faced by earthquake-prone regions, we acknowledge that the impact of earthquakes extends far beyond physical destruction, often leaving communities in disarray and necessitating comprehensive efforts to rebuild and regenerate urban environments. In response to the recent challenges faced by the earthquake zone, this paper aims to explore and propose a model for revitalizing the urban pattern, focusing specifically on Diyarbakır while highlighting common features observed in other earthquake-affected cities in Turkey. Then, it will propose a general model by considering the previous case studies, research findings, criticisms, discussions, and lessons learned from the analysis.
Understanding and Contextualizing the Zone: Over the Case of Diyarbakır
Diyarbakır, one of the largest cities in southeastern Turkey, boasts a history that dates to Mesopotamian times. Situated in the northern part of the Mesopotamian region, the city enjoys a unique context along the banks of the Tigris (Dicle) River and Karacadağ. This strategic location connects the Mediterranean shores to Persian Gulf (Basra Körfezi) and Mesopotamia to the Black Sea shores, making Diyarbakır a vital transportation hub with fertile soils. The city’s rich history can be traced back to 3rd-century BC when excavations in Virantepe revealed the remains of Huris, showcasing the longstanding preservation of the city center. Assyrian texts first mention Diyarbakır as the capital of a Semitic Kingdom, followed by successive rule by various polities such as the Mitanni, Arameans, Assyrians, Urartu, Armenians, Achaemenid Persians, Mesed, Seleucids, and Parthians1. Later, the Roman Republic started to control the city in BC.1 and named the area “Amida”2. The city, then, became a part of the Christian Byzantine Empire until the seventh-century Muslim conquest and then the sovereign of the Ottoman Empire in the 16th century. All the different cultures and civilizations that appeared in the zone brought different layers that shaped the city’s fabric and culture. One of the most important of them is the massive fortification walls, which is constructed by Roman Empire II. Constantinos and one of the oldest fortification walls in the world. The massive fortification walls of the city have highly been affecting urbanization, life patterns, and the built environment. This way, it is one of the historical anchors that the city culture is connected to.
Critical Analysis of the Current Situation
In Turkey, the understanding of urban transformation is mainly depending upon a physical understanding rather than a comprehensive approach that considers social, cultural, and contextual dimensions. The completed projects of TOKI (Housing Development Administration of Turkey), which is the main administrative responsible body in the country since the law dates 05.05.2004, showed no sensitivity towards regional characteristics and neighborhoods so far. This standardized approach is bringing certain concerns regarding the legitimacy and sensitivity of the proposals by TOKI in the earthquake zone.
In Diyarbakır, “The Urban Renewal Project” in Suriçi district, which was proposed in 2008, was rejected by the local community in 2016. The resistance prevented another disidentification in the area caused by the main “urban renewal” mentality in Turkey. Starting from the 1950s, the main cause of non-planned urbanization has been immigration from the undeveloped slums to the so-called “developed” part of the cities or countries. As a response, the governmental decisions were not effective in revitalizing the disadvantaged “slum” areas. Instead, the populist acts targeting elections and the TOKI projects that aim at constructing fast by standardizing increased the separation between low and high-level residents and prevented the implementation of positive and planned reconstruction in ghettoes.
The reason why Diyarbakir poses a unique case is its historical characteristics. The targeted Suriçi area is called to be one of the oldest settlements in the world. This, with all the cultural features of Diyarbakir that are mentioned in the introduction, makes planning the regeneration of the area harsher and deeper. Besides, providing safety, resilience, and social cohesion; the rich character of the city brings new requirements of cultural preservation and environmental sustainability. These demands can only be met by understanding the social character and the change in the built environment of the city.
The unplanned urbanization appearing in the area starting from the 1960s left the historical structures as unprotected layers. The urban forms are not pre-planned, which caused most of them to be built side by side having no urban voids in the middle. This also caused the unacceptable intervention of the new buildings in historical settings. Most of the historical remnants were either restored, not considering their architectural essence, or considered as houses to be settled in. These helped lose the texture and character of the building. Besides, the unplanned strategies prevented forming zones and planning the relations in between. So, the city was lost together with its beauty and authentic characteristics.
Outcomes from Case Studies
Throughout the term, we -as a team of two- were engaged in discussions regarding the revitalization of the earthquake zone in Diyarbakır, drawing insights from two significant examples: Renzo Piano’s “2016 Central Italy Earthquake” project and Alejandro Aravena’s “2010 Chile Earthquake” project. Our aim was to analyze these models and assess their applicability in regenerating the urban fabric of Diyarbakır, considering the appropriate scale and effectiveness.
The main outcome of the “Central Italy Earthquake” project is the approach of the architect Piano that not only focuses on rebuilding the physical infrastructure but also revitalizing the affected communities by incorporating principles of contextuality, sustainability, and cultural preservation. The project primarily prioritizes the development of safe and resilient housing, crucial for the post-disaster recovery process. Also, Renzo Piano’s team collaborated closely with local stakeholders to ensure that the regenerated housing patterns respected the historical and cultural context of the affected areas. In this regard, Piano emphasized, “We are talking about millions of buildings, it is not impossible if you work through generations.”3 This highlights the architect’s commitment to a design process that will endure over time rather than one that is short-lived. Additionally, the need for fast construction is acknowledged, with Piano emphasizing the importance of urgency. Renzo Piano says “We have to act quickly, with the utmost urgency. “4. Probably, the same case is suitable for many disaster cases as the area should recover in the soonest way to maintain the social balance and economy. Luckily, Turkey possesses the capability for rapid construction, enabling more time to be devoted to the design phase, prioritizing it over hastening the construction process.
Central Italy Earthquake
Another significant case study, Alejandro Aravena’s “Chile 2010 Earthquake” project, arose in response to the devastating earthquake that struck Chile, challenging the existing urban fabric, and causing widespread destruction. Alejandro Aravena’s approach to reconstruction focused on innovative and sustainable housing patterns that not only addressed the immediate needs of the affected communities but also fostered long-term resilience.
The project emphasized community participation and social integration, aiming to create a sense of belonging and empowerment among the residents. The applicability and significance of the project in the Diyarbakır case come from the demographic similarity of Constitucion City. The Diyarbakır case can draw applicability and significance from the demographic similarity with Constitución City, which faced similar challenges due to its waterfront location. Aravena’s solution, proposing a forested buffer zone instead of a massive wall, warrants consideration in Diyarbakır, where fortification walls already exist. This makes the fortification walls’ potential positive and negative impacts on the city’s fabric are worth discussing.
The affected city in Diyarbakır comprises a mix of mid-rises and low rises lacking proper infrastructure. When we look at the actions, the proposal’s accessibility and citizen-focused culture are worth emphasizing. Also, the “participatory design” method that Aravena utilizes was quite effective in the reconstruction of the area. Aravena remarked “Many different cities had to come up with a plan. The first reaction of other cities that did not follow [a similar] approach was, “Asking people will slow down the process and make it more expensive. In principle, if we had the time, we would [do] participatory design; not this time, we’re in an emergency.” And we believed that if you understand participatory design to identify the question, not as a way to get the answer, then you may be more efficient in how you allocate your resources and how you spend your response time for the reconstruction.”5. Another important point to take away from this project is about the importance that the architect gives to cultural identity protection. At this point, it is valuable to think of what Diyarbakır’s culture and identities are and how they can be improved through design and masterplan proposals.
Chile Earthquake Masterplan, Alejandro Aravena
Strategies to Propose for Urban Revitalization
Given the cultural and historical considerations, it becomes necessary to propose a comprehensive model for revitalizing the urban pattern in the earthquake zone. The proposed model should establish clear goals and objectives, such as enhancing safety, promoting resilience, preserving cultural identity, fostering community engagement, and ensuring environmental sustainability. Various aspects of the zone should be addressed, including urban design, infrastructure, housing patterns, community spaces, transportation, social programs, and policy recommendations.
Though proposing a model for an area known for only a short period during an academic term is challenging, as prospective graduates of architecture and lifelong citizens of Turkey, we — as students- believe in contributing our proposals. My approach will be to manifest depending upon my insights, research, and findings out of the conducted case studies.
A MANIFEST FOR RE-VITALIZING URBAN PATTERN IN EARTHQUAKE ZONE
1. Long-term Planning and Efficient Construction
As a country renowned for its construction capabilities, Turkey often lacks a comprehensive urban planning approach. While the country excels in rapid construction, more time should be dedicated to the design and planning phase. This will ensure that long-term plans are formulated, prioritizing efficiency over short-sighted and ineffective implementation plans.
2. Public Participation
In embracing long-term planning, a crucial element is the adoption of participatory design as a powerful decision-making tool. As Alejandro Aravena, a proponent of participatory design, once stated, “Many different cities had to come up with a plan. The first reaction of other cities that did not follow [a similar] approach was, “Asking people will slow down the process and make it more expensive. In principle, if we had the time, we would [do] participatory design; not this time, we’re in an emergency.” And we believed that if you understand participatory design to identify the question, not as a way to get the answer, then you may be more efficient in how you allocate your resources and how you spend your response time for the reconstruction.”5: Building and nurturing a citizen-focused culture in the earthquake zone is of utmost importance to facilitate healing and involve earthquake victims in the design process, considering their emotions, thoughts, and memories.
3. Preservation of Cultural Identity
Diyarbakır, with its rich history and culture, possesses unique features such as the Tigris River, fortification walls, neighborhood culture, courtyards, and a dominance of low-rise buildings. Many of these features have been lost over time. Now, as we have the chance to rebuild the zone, we can use this opportunity to bring the cultural identity back to the city. A master plan that integrates the river and fortification wall can strengthen urban memory, the sense of place, and identity. The introduction of courtyards and low-rise buildings aligned with the master plan can revive neighborhood culture, fostering a sense of community and street life. Additionally, the effective use of the Tigris River can be leveraged. Planning production spaces around the river, inspired by historical traditions that link water to productive activities and settlements, may further enrich the city’s fabric.
4. Urgent Central Meeting Points
Drawing inspiration from successful strategies employed by Aravena in Chile, the creation of central meeting points as initial public zones for earthquake regeneration should be considered. These meeting points would serve as gathering spaces where people can come together to discuss the revitalization of their area. This approach facilitates meaningful citizen participation in the design and planning process.
Also, these meeting points can be utilized effectively, leveraging Turkey’s existing culture of gathering at “coffee houses”. Proposing gathering points as an initial response to planning can strengthen the bonds among affected citizens and instill a sense of participation and hope for their future.
5. Community Places
In addition to the central meeting points introduced during the initial phase of the reconstruction process, the master plan should prioritize the creation of community spaces, production facilities, work zones, and recreational areas. These programs should align with the existing cultural fabric of the city. In Diyarbakır, recreational activities tied to its history, river culture, and artisan craftwork can be introduced. Furthermore, the inclusion of study and work zones for students and working individuals is crucial. These urban spaces are envisioned to strengthen community ties and accelerate the recovery process for earthquake-affected individuals.
6. Greenery
Finally, it is needed to address the lack of emphasis on greenery in Turkish urbanization, often dismissed as mere “greenwashing.” Green spaces have always played a vital role in city life and culture. Integrating greenery becomes even more crucial in the regeneration process, as it brings renewed serenity to the city. Therefore, introducing forestation in earthquake zones may allow the city to breathe and create pleasant urban areas within the city center.
By adhering to these guiding principles, the revitalization of urban patterns in earthquake zones can pave the way for resilient, sustainable, and culturally vibrant cities that prioritize the well-being and active participation of their residents.
1 Trevor Bryce, The Kingdom of the Hittites, 1999 p. 137
2 Theodor Mommsen History of Rome, The Establishment of the Military Monarchy. Italian.classic-literature.co.uk
3 Italy earthquake: PM asks Renzo Piano to help in reconstruction. (2016). Retrieved 31 May 2023, from https://www.theguardian.com/world/2016/aug/29/italy-earthquake-pm-asks-renzo-piano-to-help-in-reconstruction
4 Renzo Piano Makes an Urgent Call to Reinforce Anti-seismic Regulations in the Laws of Italy. (2023). Retrieved 31 May 2023, from https://worldarchitecture.org/wa-top-teaser/chpv/renzo-piano-makes-an-urgent-call-to-reinforce-anti-seismic-regulations-in-the-laws-of-italy
5 Bloomberg — How an Architect Who Designs ‘Half-Houses’ Rebuilt a City (2019). Retrieved 31 May 2023, from https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2019-09-26/alejandro-aravena-on-designing-for-disaster
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