Mardin rural architectural research: Kızıltepe Beşdeğirmen (Amrude) Village

Abstract

Mardin is one of Turkey’s most significant cities, known for its historical texture, cultural richness, and unique architecture. Rural areas around Mardin are especially valuable as they reflect the region’s cultural identity and historical development. The buildings in these areas are typically constructed with local stone masonry, harmonizing with the environment while being functional. This gives them not only aesthetic but also historical and cultural significance. Beşdeğirmen, a village in the Kızıltepe district of Mardin, holds historical importance. Its name derives from five water mills that once operated there. Both architecturally and socially, the village represents a unique example of Mardin’s rural heritage and traditional lifestyle. Its historical structures, including water mills, rock-carved houses, and the old settlement area, provide valuable insights into past agricultural practices and rural life. This study aims to document and contribute to the preservation of Beşdeğirmen’s architectural heritage. Fieldwork was carried out using photography, surveying, and observation techniques to analyze the buildings’ characteristics, including materials, construction techniques, plans, facades, and other architectural elements. The data obtained were systematically recorded to form a basis for future research. Documenting rural architecture in Mardin is essential for protecting cultural values, enriching regional heritage literature, and supporting sustainable tourism. Studies like this help preserve values at risk due to modernization and migration, while highlighting Beşdeğirmen’s heritage promotes Mardin’s identity and serves as a model for future research on rural architecture.