A research on building inscriptions in kemaliye (eğin) and preservation proposals

The Kemaliye district, with its preserved traditional architectural fabric and cultural heritage, constitutes an important center for historical and cultural research. The inscriptions located within the district not only provide information about the construction dates of buildings and their patrons but also offer valuable insights into the social life, cultural values, belief systems, and aesthetic sensibilities of the period. Inscriptions featuring aphorisms, wishes, and religious messages convey the lifestyle and cultural norms of the local community to the present day, while elements such as stone material, script types, and application techniques allow for the documentation of traditional stone craftsmanship and architectural aesthetics. In this regard, the inscriptions of Kemaliye are regarded as tangible indicators of urban memory and cultural heritage. Moreover, documenting and preserving these inscriptions against threats such as biological factors, atmospheric conditions, and natural disasters is crucial not only for maintaining historical and cultural knowledge but also for ensuring the transmission of local cultural heritage to future generations. This study aims to systematically identify, document, and develop conservation recommendations for the inscriptions located within the traditional buildings of Kemaliye. The research encompasses seven neighborhoods and five villages with a high density of inscriptions. The methodology involved an initial literature review, followed by fieldwork during which the inscriptions were photographed, transcribed, and analyzed in terms of dimensions, material, and techniques. Observed damages were assessed, and conservation proposals were formulated based on the findings. Keywords: Kemaliye, Eğin, Incriptions, Traditional Building, Documentation