A Tale of Ulus Square: Emergence, Transformation and Change

Abstract

This research focuses on the story of Ulus Square as a heritage place and its emergence, evolution and transformation through time. It is aimed to reveal the values that are ascribed to the area during the periods defined, and to determine the main factors that have affected how these values have been shaped over time. A particular emphasis has been placed on highlighting the vulnerability of Ulus Square in the face of current urban projects, and the risk of the area losing its cultural significance, authenticity and integrity as an important public open space within the city. In the first part of the article, the integration, starting from the Roman Period onwards, of the empty open space (corresponding to today’s Ulus Square) to the city is examined. Secondly, the emergence of the square in the early 19th century, and the subsequent acceleration of its development through the Tanzimat Reforms, is analysed in detail. In the following parts, effects on urban space and city life of several events and trends, such as the proclamation of the Republic, the declaration of Ankara as the capital and the ideological structure of the state is discussed through the story of Ulus Square. There is also consideration of the changes within the political, economic and sociocultural structure of the country after the Second World War, the impact of international relations on urban structure, and how the transformation of Ulus Square reflects these changes. The final section of the paper is mainly concerned with the role of conservation and renovation master plans on the continuity of Ulus Square. These plans are analysed regarding their impact on the square and the values attached to the area. The clear correlation between current projects and the renovation plan that was repealed in 2008 is particularly emphasised, and the negative impacts of these projects on the cultural significance of Ulus Square are discussed in detail.

Keywords

• historic public open space
• cultural heritage
• urban conservation
• conservation master plan
• renovation plan
• ulus square
• ankara