The Story of a Change in Venue: Gaziantep

Abstract

This paper investigates the historical transformation of Gaziantep, one of Turkey’s major cities, focusing on the impacts of rapid industrialisation, population growth, and urban expansion since the 1980s. The study highlights both the challenges of deteriorating open spaces, relocation of housing and industry, and the emergence of low-quality urban areas, as well as the positive contributions of restoration and conservation projects. These initiatives have supported economic growth, particularly through tourism, while shaping the city’s evolving identity within changing planning approaches.