The role of historical trading centers in the conservation of urban identity: Yozgat

Historical trade centers are complex systems that reflect all aspects of a society's cultural, social and economic life. These systems are formed as a result of the interaction of the natural and built environment and have emerged with the coming together of architectural, archaeological, social and cultural values. In order to preserve and sustain historical trade centers that form a bridge to the present and to transfer them to the future, it is necessary to create, plan and implement effective and applicable protection methods and techniques. The main purpose of this study is to examine the effects of changes and destructions in historical trade centers due to neoliberal policies and globalization process on cultural heritage and urban identity within the framework of protection methods and integrated protection approach included in Valetta Principles in the example of Yozgat Historical Trade Center. Qualitative and quantitative research methods were used together for this purpose. In the analysis phase, on-site observations, examinations and analyses based on literature review were conducted and the current status of the historical trade center was revealed. In addition to the analyses conducted, all spatial changes and transformations were determined using Netcad, Autocad, Geographic Information Systems and digitized with the quantitative research methods used, field research and mapping method, and their strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats were determined. As a result, it was concluded that in order to preserve the Yozgat Historical Trade Center as an urban site and to pass it on to future generations, the interventions should be re-planned in line with the principles of an integrated conservation approach that includes both the protection of cultural and historical values and their integration with today's social, environmental, technological and economic life.