The relationship between city archaeology and museum in the example of İstanbul Archaeological Museums

This thesis investigates practices of city archaeology and activities of the museums in this context. Field of research is Istanbul which has vast archaeological heritage. Istanbul Archaeological Museums have undertaken the responsibility of administering all archaeological excavations within the city since they were founded. This double responsibility of the Museums has created a close relationship between the practices of city archaeology and museum activities in Istanbul. That there are intense construction works on the surface and vast archaeological heritage underground can illustrate what a great responsibility Istanbul Archaeological Museums assume. When these responsibilities are coupled with huge volume of museum collections and activities inside the museums, it is apparent that the museums should implement a new system. City archaeology activities, which were developed after the catastrophic destruction of European cities during World War II, have basic principles, stipulated in international agreements and by international organizations. Turkey is one of the countries which accepted the responsibilities in this field by signing the Malta convention. Practices of city archaeology in Europe are executed according to the articles of the Malta convention, although several different implementations are also observed. While private archaeological companies and non-museum state organizations are responsible of archaeological excavations in Europe, Istanbul Archaeological Museums are solely authorised for such excavations in Istanbul. This thesis reviews historical development of the concept of city archaeology and discusses whether these types of organizations can form a benchmark for Istanbul city archaeology practices. This thesis also investigates advantages and disadvantages of the Museum in terms of museum administration and activities of city archaeology. Two archaeological excavations in Istanbul are assessed and compared with similar implementations in Germany, and certain suggestions are made.