Region identification model recommendation for the documentation of sound identity of the cities with soundscape approach: The case of Eskişehir

Urban identity; it is defined in the simplest way as the expression of features that distinguish one city from the others. Urban identity is consisted of urban identity types and its determinants. The urban identity determinants are consisted of natural, artificial and social factors. New urban identity determinants are included in the urban identity researches. These determinants are usually sensory factors that affect urban perception. Sensory factors (smell, sound, etc.) are also included in UNESCO's "Intangible Cultural Heritage" list. Nevertheless, in the literature, there is no research that includes sensory identity formed by sensory factors into urban identity types. Therefore, the scope of urban identity needs to be expanded. In the studies conducted with the soundscape approach, which is one of the research areas where the sound is one of the city sensory factors, the necessity of protecting and documenting the sound identity through the soundmarks from the soundscape components stands out. However, the areas to be documented in soundscape studies are not clear. In the literature, according to the subject of study historical areas, coastal areas, urban parks etc. are selected for documentation. Through the examination of these areas it is seen that these areas are the counterparts or the concentrated areas of the urban identifiers; and the density of use, resource diversity, etc. are the reasons why the researcher is automatically directed to the selection of these featured areas by the city itself. From this point of view, using urban identity determinants within the scope of the study, a model that using the soundscape approach selects the areas where the sound identity can be documented in the cities is suggested and explaned through Eskişehir case. This proposed model is expected to be used as the basis for the selection of the areas where the sound identity to be documented and to be used in studies conducted for the same purpose.