First Efforts on the Protection of Historical Artifacts in the Modernization of Republican Cities: The Case of Mardin (1932-1948)

Abstract

Mardin, positioned among the important cultural centers of the Mesopotamian region, is home to numerous architectural structures and groups from various historical periods, all of which require comprehensive preservation to ensure their enduring integrity. The components of these groups reflect the beliefs, cultures, and daily lifestyles of the people who lived during the Artuqid, Seljuk, Akkoyunlu, and Ottoman periods. The coexistence of architectural works in Mardin and their preservation in their current state have contributed to the city's designation as a protected area. The most crucial factor that facilitated Mardin's classification as a protected site is its authenticity; the artworks within the city have been preserved alongside their natural surroundings, maintaining their historical identity and uniqueness. Although decisions were made to protect architectural works during the Ottoman Empire, it is evident that significant initiatives emerged during the Republican period. The aim of this study is to try to reveal the integrity of historical artifacts in the light of reports and archival documents by examining their preservation in their own environment. The identification of historical artifacts in Anatolia highlights the significance of this study, while the inventory assessment conducted in Mardin through the microhistory method enriches the literature on republican history. This study examines how the historical artifacts inherited by the Republic of T & uuml;rkiye have been identified and preserved, using Mardin as a case study.