The reuse and conservation of Ottoman commercial inns on the Historic Peninsula in Istanbul

Abstract

The basic characteristic of Ottoman bazaars is that they consist of rows of small shops along streets, while modern shopping malls are dominated by the food, beverage and entertainment industry together with large scale shops. The Historic Peninsula in Istanbul was a commercial center accessed by traders via the sea and land routes, and that is where they exchanged and sold their goods since it was settled as a residential area, and this continues to the present day. Traditional Ottoman bazaars had large courtyards which also were social public spaces. The aim of this paper is to discuss in detail the existing problems and difficulties involved in the adaptive reuse of Ottoman Trade Inns located on the Historic Peninsula in Istanbul, particularly inns with courtyards that were built up until the end of 19th century. Recommendations will be given in terms of the protection and reuse of Ottoman Inns in a way that is integrated with daily life.