The Modernist Legacy of the Erzincan Earthquake: “Kurma Evler” and Sustainable Urban Planning

Abstract

This article examines the historical and architectural significance of Erzincan’s Kurma Evler, earthquake-resistant houses constructed in response to the devastating 1939 earthquake. It aims to assess the Kurma Evler’s role in modern heritage and their potential as sustainable models for earthquake-resistant construction. The study involves a comparative analysis of Kurma Evler with similar post-disaster housing projects globally. It evaluates their design, construction techniques, and sustainability features. The research also explores the impact of Erzincan’s historical context and the 1939 earthquake on the city’s architecture and urban planning. The Kurma Evler, built between 1949 and 1951, exemplify modern heritage through their earthquake-resistant design and prefabricated construction. These single-story, detached houses with gardens represent significant advances in building techniques and offer valuable lessons for earthquake-prone regions. The comparison with international post-disaster housing projects highlights commonalities in design and construction practices. Limited Scope of Surviving Structures: the focus is on the Kurma Evler that have survived, but there is no detailed analysis of those that have been demolished or are no longer accessible. This limits understanding of the full impact of urban development on these historic structures. The study emphasizes the importance of preserving the Kurma Evler as a cultural and architectural legacy. It advocates for a collaborative preservation approach involving local communities, government authorities, and international organizations. Proposed initiatives include educational programs, community-led preservation efforts, and heritage registration. This paper contributes to the understanding of modern heritage by highlighting the Kurma Evler as a model for sustainable and earthquake-resistant construction. It offers recommendations for their preservation and restoration, underscoring their significance in architectural evolution and societal resilience.