Determining Urban Identity of a Historical City from Inhabitants’ Perspective: Erzurum, a Case from Asia Minor

Abstract

Aims: This study aims to explore the urban identity of Erzurum, which has a rich cultural and historical background dates back to 4000 BC, from the perspective of inhabitants. Additionally, the differences between perceptions about urban identity elements of various inhabitants' groups, categorized in terms of age, gender, education level, being a native of Erzurum, and length of residence in Erzurum, are determined. Study Design: The research was designed as a case-study and pursued an exploratory research approach. Place and Duration of Study: The study has been conducted in Erzurum, located in Eastern Anatolia, Turkey. Interviews have been conducted with 268 inhabitants of Erzurum between May and June 2015. Methodology: Within the context of the study, Erzurum's urban identity is determined through its elements that are commonly classified as topographical properties, climate and flora, elements at settlement level, urban equipment, symbolic elements, socio-cultural properties, and socio-economical properties. The present study has been designed as an exploratory case study in which qualitative and quantitative data collection techniques have been used. Results: This study, through answering its research questions, reveals that, first, environmental identity elements have more significance than social identity elements; second, natural environmental elements as Palandöken Mountain and cold climate, and artificial identity elements as Cumhuriyet Street and the Twin Minaret Madrasa are the most significant identity elements; and, third, differences between the respondents’ age and education helps to explain the differences between their perception on urban identity elements, in the case of Erzurum. Conclusion: This exploratory case study, departing from the idea that urban identity is a social and cultural phenomenon and unique for each individual and society, explored the urban identity elements from the perspective of the inhabitants of Erzurum. In the end, the importance of determining urban identity based on inter-subjectively built consensus to protect the uniqueness of the cities has been highlighted.