Rebuilding Antakya: Cultivating urban resilience through cultural identity and education for post-disaster reconstruction in Turkey

Abstract

On February 6th^, 2023, 11 cities around the southeast of Turkey were hit by a major earthquake with magnitude of 7.9 and 7.6, which resulted in mass destruction and loss of lives in many cities. Antakya, Hatay was one of those cities that lost more than 50 % of the built environment and a death toll of over 50,000. Previously known for its profound historical lineage, rich and diverse cultural heritage, and deep-rooted connection to its cultural identity, Antakya's reconstruction process holds a critical case not only for Turkey but also for the global discourse on urban resilience and post-disaster recovery strategies. Thus, in this study, we deep dive into an ongoing recovery process in Antakya, Turkey. The study's primary objective is to identify the key factors, constraints, opportunities, and challenges involved in reconstructing a city that can withstand future earthquakes. The data used in the study was gathered during fieldwork that was carried out in Hatay, Turkey, in June 2023. The methodology consists of total of 16 focus groups and in-depth interviews with stakeholders, including representatives of professional associations, local government agencies, and public institutions. Our results showed that re-opening educational services plays a crucial role in promoting recovery in Antakya. Furthermore, we examined the complex interplay between cultural ties to place, and urban resilience in the context of disaster recovery. We found that in Antakya, cultural identify may play a crucial role and would have a direct influence on its recovery. These findings hold significance for policymakers, urban planners, and disaster management professionals who must navigate the challenging terrain of post-disaster reconstruction while considering the cultural and emotional ties that bind residents to their cities. Ultimately, this research provides valuable insights into the intricacies of urban recovery and reconstruction processes and contributes to the growing body of knowledge on urban resilience and disaster recovery.