Preferred old tree spieces around historical buildings in Bursa and Bilecik provinces

In this study, we examine the location and functions of old trees as complementary elements of historical structures in Bursa and Bilecik. We evaluate a total of 39 historical structures and 91 trees of monumental value in the Bursa-Bilecik region, which are two important cities in Turkish history. The presence of these trees, which are deeply integrated with historical places, gives meaning to the structures and has a psychological effect on people. Historical trees serve as places of refuge from the chaos, noise, and crowds of the city, inspiring admiration, peace, and relaxation. Therefore, the trees located in historical places are living legacies that we will pass on from the past to the future. Determining the relationship between the structures and the trees is one of the starting points of this study, as it is crucial for the careful preservation of this legacy. We evaluate the preferred tree species in historical structures, their positioning according to the structure, the construction periods, qualities, and architectural styles of historical structures. Additionally, we examine factors such as the species of the trees, factors influencing their preference for planting, dimensions, the relationship between the tree and the historical structure, and situations that may pose a danger or harm to the structure. We also evaluate the maintenance, pruning, rehabilitation, and environmental arrangement needs of monumental trees. Through our studies, we reveal the relationship and interactions between trees and structures, which are complementary elements of historical structures. We determine that the oriental plane tree (Platanus orientalis) is preferred in historical structures such as mosques, chapels, and inns, while the Italian cypress (Cupressus sempervirens) is preferred in historical structures such as tombs and cemeteries. We also observe that silver lime (Tilia argentea) is occasionally preferred in the surroundings of inns and mosques.