Conservation and restoration proposal for the Hatibiye Madrasa in bitlis

This thesis aims to develop scientifically based approaches to the preservation and restoration of the Hatibiye Madrasa located in the city center of Bitlis. The main objective of the study is to raise awareness about the preservation of historical structures, contribute to the cultural continuity of the city, and highlight the importance of scientific methods in transmitting cultural heritage to future generations. In this context, the historical development, architectural and structural features, repairs, relationship with its surroundings, and current condition of the Hatibiye Madrasa have been comprehensively examined through archival documents, literature review, and on-site observations. In this process, in addition to traditional measurement methods, laser scanning, drone footage, and detailed photography techniques were used to document the current state of the structure, and a survey was prepared based on the data obtained. Through the survey project, the deteriorations in the structure were analyzed in terms of materials and the load-bearing system; damage maps were created based on these analyses, and the types and causes of deterioration were evaluated with scientific data. The restitution study was carried out based on data obtained from written and drawn sources, archival documents, and oral information based on local memory; This process also includes comparative analyses of the Şerefiye, İhlasiye, and Yusufiye madrasahs located in the city center of Bitlis. Within this scope, the Hatibiye Madrasah is evaluated in terms of its plan layout, spatial organization, facade design, material usage, and its relationship with topography, along with information about the building, and its original plan scheme and architectural components are presented. The restoration approach developed within the scope of this thesis has been shaped in accordance with international conservation regulations and the legal and administrative regulations valid in Turkey; the principles of minimal intervention, originality, distinguishability, and reversibility have been adopted as fundamental determinants. In line with this approach, the restoration process is not considered merely as a technical intervention aimed at resolving structural problems, but rather as a holistic and sustainable conservation approach aimed at preserving the historical identity and cultural heritage value of the Hatibiye Madrasah. It is anticipated that the methods and recommendations presented in this study will contribute to future academic and applied studies on the preservation and restoration of similar historical structures.