Holistic Conservation Approach to Intangible Cultural Heritage and Places of Eyüp

Abstract

Dating back to the Byzantine period, the province of Eyüp in Istanbul is home to a multi-layered structure that was sacred to Muslims during the Ottoman period and today, is an important settlement with both tangible and intangible cultural heritage. In this study, Eyüp’s tangible and intangible cultural heritage and places are discussed regarding the idea of their joint protection in UNESCO's Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage. With this in mind, Eyüp’s intangible cultural heritage was identified from the literature and area works; classified according to the categories in its contract; and associated buildings, spaces, textures, and regions were identified. As a result of these identifying factors, it has been observed that social practices related to religious belief continue in Eyüp, however, handicrafts have almost lost their importance and could disappear while some gastronomy remains. In parallel, it was understood that the intangible cultural heritage sites examined were also negatively affected and some were destroyed. As a result, suggestions have been presented to protect both the tangible and intangible cultural heritage together and in situ.