1870 Beyoğlu fire and reconstruction activities after the fire

The main theme of this thesis is fire of 1870, which is the biggest fire in Beyoğlu history, and following reconstruction activities. The fire spread swiftly all over the region and destruct almost all of Pera. Because of the presence of the embassies and cream of the society, the fire causes massive material damage. After the 19th century, the 'iane' method, which was introduced to support the state in order to meet the needs of the soldiers and the people who were harmed in natural disasters and wars, was put into practice after this fire. With the works of 'İane' Commission, donations are collected at home and abroad and distributed to those in need. In addition to this, the losses of Europeans and non-Muslim subjects living in the Ottoman Empire cause new developments in the field of insurance and fire brigade. When the pressure from Europe increased, the Ottomans brought Count Edmond Szechenyi to modernize the fire brigade on the basis of the Austro-Hungarian example. The short-term coverage of the damages of some insured houses after the fire by the insurance companies positively affects the understanding of insurance. With the release of the fatwa that the insurance is permissible, insurance companies open branches in the Ottoman Empire. After the fire, Pera was constructed on the basis of 'Tevsi' plan. Thus, Beyoğlu is rebuilt according to its old plan. But roads are expanded, houses are minimized and new public spaces are built. With the support of European investors, almost all of the houses are built as masonry. Pera, where the Muslim population gradually decreases due to both economic and cultural reasons, is reminiscent of the European cities with the luxury apartments, restaurants, hotels and public areas. In addition, the transportation vehicles which make life easier such as omnibus and tunnel are also introduced to the region.