Spatial traces of Denizli's industrial heritage: A mapping and evaluation study

The Industrial Revolution is considered one of the most significant turning points in human history. This revolution radically transformed traditional production methods, replacing manual labor with mechanized production carried out in industrial facilities. This major shift in production processes not only brought economic and technological changes but also deeply affected social structures, urbanization patterns, and spatial organization. As industrial production spread, the spatial distribution of production facilities within cities changed; while some areas became concentrated with industrial buildings, others experienced abandonment or demolition over time. With its long-standing industrial tradition, Denizli has been an important industrial center since antiquity. Especially in the textile sector and other industries, numerous facilities were established in the city, which underwent intense spatial and socio-economic transformations brought by industrialization. An analysis of the industrial development from the late 19th to the 20th century reveals that Denizli possesses a rich industrial heritage. However, many of these industrial sites have lost their original functions, with some repurposed and many others demolished over time. This study aims to examine the industrial heritage of Denizli by evaluating the architectural qualities, socio-cultural contributions, and physical impact of both existing and lost industrial structures. Through mapping and spatial analysis, the research seeks to provide insights into Denizli's industrialization process and contribute valuable data regarding the city's identity. The preservation of industrial heritage is of great importance for the sustainability of urban memory and can serve as a foundation for future conservation and adaptive reuse projects.