Fortified Structures in Cilician An Evaluation on Conservation Problems

Abstract

Cilicia has been considered as a settlement territory for centuries due to its location that connects Anatolia to Mesopotamia as well as its favourable geographical conditions. In the region where various civilizations wanted to take control, fortified structres were needed since ancient ages in order to ensure the security of roads, agricultural areas, important centers and the people due to conflicts, invasions and wars. Especially, when long-term peace and security could not be maintained, existing buildings were renewed and new ones were built. These monumental structures are extremely valuable with their unique architecture that fits the features of the topography, cultural layers and fortified systems. Therefore, it is important to ensure their sustainability. However, while some of the buildings try to survive despite various adverse effects, some of them are in danger of disappearing. Presenting individual fortresses together as a joint cultural heritage in the context of their common geographical and historical characteristics, preserving them with a shared approach, and securing their sustainability are only possible with the identification of the current problems. In this context, the study includes the evaluation and results of the data obtained from the area regarding the conservation problems of these structures, the number of which increased with new constructions (Hellenkemper & Hild, 1990, s. 143,150) between the 11th and 14th centuries in the Cilicia Region.