Çeşme’s Heritage Documented for the Future

Fieldwork has been completed as part of the “Çeşmelerin Çeşme’si” project, carried out in collaboration between the Çeşme Municipality Vision Office and İzmir University of Economics. The historic fountains that gave Çeşme its name will be restored through a scientific conservation process and reintegrated into urban life.

An important stage has been completed in the “Çeşmelerin Çeşme’si” project, implemented in cooperation with the Çeşme Municipality Vision Office and the Architectural Restoration Program of İzmir University of Economics Vocational School. Comprehensive field studies, which will provide the basis for the documentation, analysis, restitution and restoration of the historic fountains, have now been concluded.

SIX WEEKS OF FIELDWORK

As part of the project, 26 students, working in 13 teams, conducted detailed measurements, photographic documentation and on-site examinations of 16 historic fountains located in the Musalla, Sakarya, 16 Eylül and İsmet İnönü neighborhoods over a period of approximately six weeks. Through measured surveys, material analyses and deterioration assessments, the current condition of the historic structures was scientifically documented, establishing the groundwork for future restoration practices.

The main objective of the project is to document the architectural characteristics and original materials of Çeşme’s historic fountains, identify deterioration that has occurred over time, determine conservation needs and strengthen the visibility of this cultural heritage within the collective memory of the city.

“THE CITY’S IDENTITY WILL BE MADE VISIBLE AGAIN”

Çeşme Mayor Lâl Denizli stated that the project would contribute not only to the preservation of historic structures but also to making the city’s identity visible once again. “We have reached the end of our field studies, carried out together with our academics and students, to revive the historical heritage from which Çeşme takes its name. With the restoration work that we will soon begin, Çeşme will once again be reunited with its fountains,” Denizli said.

EMPHASIS ON SUSTAINABLE TOURISM

Highlighting that the preservation of cultural heritage is one of the key elements of sustainable tourism, Denizli continued: “When we talk about Çeşme, we naturally highlight our sea, nature and tourism. However, strengthening cultural tourism depends on protecting our historical heritage and making it visible. Our historic fountains are among the strongest symbols of our city’s identity. By preserving this heritage and passing it on to future generations, we will continue working to create a city where visitors can experience Çeşme with all of its values.”

“KNOWLEDGE WAS TRANSFORMED INTO PUBLIC BENEFIT”

Yarkın Üstünes, Lecturer in the Architectural Restoration Program at İzmir University of Economics, said: “A city’s identity is strengthened not only by new buildings, but also by the values that keep its past alive. Scientifically documenting the historic fountains that gave Çeşme its name and preparing them for the restoration process represents an important step in carrying the city’s collective memory into the future. This project provided our students with valuable hands-on educational experience while also creating an exemplary model of collaboration through which our university’s academic knowledge and expertise were transformed into public benefit. Lecturer Duygu Aksoy also made a significant contribution to the realization of the project. I congratulate all of our students who successfully took part in such an important initiative.”