Breaking point of memory: Tepresentation, silence and spatial narratives in Tunceli Museum

The physical transformation of Tunceli Barracks into a museum has left deep traces in the collective memory of the local community. This study examines the barracks' conversion from a military structure to a cultural space and its impact on the local memory, focusing on the spatial, social, and psychological dimensions of the transformation. The conversion of the barracks into a museum has created a memory space that carries the memories of individuals who lived there and has reshaped collective memory. However, during the museumification process, the loss of natural elements such as the barracks' gardens, poplar trees, and bread ovens led to a weakening of spatial memory, resulting in an incomplete representation of the past. The findings of the research highlight how the physical changes in the barracks affected the memories of those who lived there. Natural elements, such as gardens and trees, held significant emotional and cultural value, but their disappearance during the museumification process created a gap in the representation of the past. Additionally, the psychological effects of the space on children growing up there, where the environment was both a safe play area and a site of fear and curiosity, shaped the collective memory with mixed feelings of belonging and exclusion. The isolated structure of the barracks fostered a dual sense of belonging and marginalization, leaving deep marks in the memories of the residents. The transformation of Tunceli Barracks into a museum, while serving as a memory space, has not fully reflected the past, with some important historical and social elements left out, such as the 1938 Dersim military operation. These gaps in the museum's representation limit the depth of the collective memory it aims to preserve. The study suggests that a more inclusive and comprehensive narrative about Dersim's traumatic past should be integrated into the museum's exhibits to strengthen the preservation of the region's collective memory. The balance and inclusivity between different narratives are crucial for presenting a more nuanced representation of the past. The research emphasizes the importance of a balanced approach in the museum's exhibitions to better reflect historical events and social memories. By considering diverse perspectives from various societal groups, the museum can provide a more accurate and comprehensive portrayal of the past. The Tunceli Museum, with this opportunity for improvement, holds significant potential to become a more inclusive and holistic memory space, contributing to a fuller representation of the region's complex history.