Bursa with its values living in social memory: Foundation culture

The subject of this thesis is about the experiences, meanings and perceptions of the foundation culture that lives in the social memory through the ancient city of Bursa. At the same time, issues such as the purpose of establishment of foundations, their importance, value and social functions in the historical process were also discussed. From past to present, Bursa is an Ottoman city that has hosted many foundation institutions and works and came to life with foundation civilization. Foundations in the Ottoman Bursa; they are important organizations that strengthen social cooperation, regulate income distribution and social ties, increase employment and contribute to social life. Through foundations, activities related to education, health, religion, city planning and development services were carried out easily, and commercial and social mobility was ensured. It is possible to say that the foundation culture, which prospered the city with its numerous works and services during the Ottoman period and added value to the city as centers of science, culture and wisdom, is a phenomenon identified and integrated with Bursa. Today, the foundation culture and works continue to beautify Bursa's skyline and add value to the city. However, what is the place and value of foundation culture in social memory today, and how is the phenomenon of foundation perceived? Therefore, the research was planned and conducted based on these basic questions. In this context, the main purpose of the research is; The aim is to examine the foundation culture as a value living in social memory, based on the experiences, memories and impressions of individuals from Bursa or those who have spent most of their lives in Bursa (40 years or more). The research was conducted with qualitative research method. Within the scope of the purpose of the research, interviews were conducted with 10 adults over the age of 65 using the semi-structured interview technique. In the current research, participants' perceptions of the foundation phenomenon; their views on the past, present and future of foundation culture were examined. The study underlines the importance of foundation culture as a historical and social value and suggests potential solutions. It also emphasizes the need to raise public awareness of foundation culture and encourage their active participation. Paying more attention to these issues in educational institutions and carrying out awareness-raising initiatives will constitute an important step for the revival of the foundation culture. As a result, this study presents the perspectives of individuals over the age of 65, who reside in Bursa and have devoted many years to this field, on foundation culture as a value living in social memory. As a result, it is important to increase social awareness about the foundation institution and culture, to find solutions to current problems, to preserve the foundation culture, which is a value from the past, and to leave it as a legacy to the future.