Review of Sustainability of Social Memory on the Basis of Spaces in Atatürk’s Visits in Mersin

Abstract

Social memory is a phenomenon that connects the past of the society with the present, is concrete in spaces and structures, and is kneaded with culture. Because of the social memory's need for space, social memory; cannot be separated from society, space and culture. With this study, it is aimed to analyze the structures in Mersin, which Atatürk visited throughout her life, and which are in the memory of the city users. In the first part of the study; definitions and source research, which constitute the conceptual framework of the study, are included. Later, Atatürk's visits to Mersin were researched and the places that Atatürk used in these visits were determined in the written publications and in the books in which the oral interviews were published. The general characteristics, historical development and architectural features of these places-structures in the social memory have been examined. In these examinations, the current situation of the structures was determined and the interviews with the individuals focused on the effects of memory and reminiscence. Structures with characteristics of being a historical structure bear the traces of culture, social structure, life experiences, and life styles of previous periods. Ensuring the sustainability of these structures with characteristics of being a historical document by protecting them keeps the social memory alive. Thus, the sustainability of the social memory will be provided through spaces. At the same time, by documenting the architectural identity of the examined Krizmon Mansion, Silifke Tekir Farm, Silifke Atatürk House, Government House, Train Station, it is aimed to create a resource for the study to transfer it to the future. © 2023 WITPress. All rights reserved.