Analysis of the mediterranean region's traditional water structures with the examples of Kaş

Water is one of the most important physical components in the world. Access to this resource, which is essential for the continuation of life, is the first goal of all living things. The first examples of civilization and urbanization have always emerged at the edge of fertile wetlands and progressed with simple water transmission structures. As cities grew, people's need for water increased and finding enough water became a problem. The need to cope with this problem led to the construction of water structures. Thanks to structures such as dams, canals, aqueducts, tunnels, wells, pipes of various types and sizes, fountains, cisterns, etc., the transportation, storage and distribution of water has made it possible to access the clean water always. These structures, which are indispensable elements of today's infrastructure, are works that show the water management decisions of societies, their ability to cope with climatic crises, their contribution to sustainability principles in water use, and examples developed in rural areas. This study aims to examine the historical, architectural and functional characteristics of traditional water structures (pools, wells and cisterns) in the village settlements of Kaş district of Antalya province. From the Lycian civilization to the Ottoman Empire to the present day, Kaş has been an important region that has developed water management solutions specific to different periods due to the limited water resources. In this context, traditional water structures are among the key elements that shape both the physical and cultural landscape of the region. The study consists of three main phases: preparation and literature review, fieldwork and data collection, and data analysis and evaluation. In the first stage, a comprehensive literature review was conducted to understand the historical, geographical and cultural context of the region, and the general characteristics and distribution of traditional water structures in Kaş district were identified. During the fieldwork, on-site observations were made; interview forms were filled out, photographs were taken, measurements and survey drawings were made to document the current conditions of the structures, and data collection was achieved through these methods. The data obtained were analysed with the purpose of evaluate the typological classification, spatial distribution and functional characteristics of traditional water structures. The research findings revealed that the traditional water structures in Kaş district were designed to adapt to the climatic conditions of the region and are important structures that support the sustainable use of water. Although these structures have remarkable technical and aesthetic features, they are in danger of losing their functions due to modernization and urbanization. The study not only emphasizes the importance of these structures as cultural and historical heritage but also provides a scientific basis for their re-evaluation in the context of contemporary issues such as sustainability and climate change.