Architectural Evaluation on the Houses in the Neighborhoods Where the Greeks Lived in Ürgüp in the 19th Century

Abstract

Ürgüp, one of the important settlements of Cappadocia region, is located 20 km east of Nevsehir city center. Ürgüp settlement has hosted many civilizations throughout history. Christian and Muslim peoples lived together in this settlement, which dates to very ancient times, until the population exchange in 1923. The Greek people, who had an important population in Cappadocia region, emigrated here leaving cultural heritage artifacts. The aim of the study is to examine and document the houses in the neighborhoods where the Greeks lived in Ürgüp in the 19th century in terms of art and architectural history. Information was given about the climate, natural conditions, topography, historical urban texture of the settlement of Ürgüp and the relations of the Greeks to the city, their socio-cultural and economic status. The Greek dwellings were studied in terms of art and architectural design and a catalog of 18 houses was prepared. An evaluation was made in terms of ground plan features, facade design, decorative features and material aspects of the studied houses and a conclusion was drawn. This studies were carried out on the houses examined in the study and an attempt was made to reproduce the original condition of the buildings. This study provided a basis for the rapidly progressing restoration and repair work in the region. With this study, it was determined that the houses have local characteristics and possess their original values. Baseline data for future preservation and restoration activities in the region will be established.