In the heart of Ankara, a modern metropolis where ancient traditions meet cutting-edge innovation, stands the Maltepe Mosque, a structure that has sparked a compelling debate in the architectural community. This mosque, built with a traditional approach, is the subject of a recent study led by Necdet Bekirhan Soy of Selçuk University, published in the Journal of Design for Resilience in Architecture and Planning, which translates to the Journal of Design for Resilience in Architecture and Urban Planning. The research delves into the intricate balance between preserving cultural heritage and embracing modern architectural techniques, a dilemma that resonates deeply within Turkey’s urban fabric.
The Maltepe Mosque, with its distinctive dome, minarets, mihrab, and minbar, embodies the rich architectural legacy of Ottoman and Seljuk design. However, integrating these traditional elements into a contemporary structure presents unique challenges and opportunities. Soy’s study examines how these key architectural features were adapted and integrated with modern construction methods, offering a critical perspective on the future of mosque architecture in Turkey.
“Traditional elements in mosque architecture can sometimes become an obstacle to innovative approaches,” Soy explains. “But they also serve as a meaningful step towards preserving our collective memory.” This tension between tradition and innovation is at the core of the study, which questions the place of traditional mosque architecture within modern urban life and architectural understanding.
The research evaluates the Maltepe Mosque’s design, aesthetics, functionality, and originality, providing insights into how traditional forms can be sustained in a modern city. It also addresses the limitations imposed by traditionalist approaches in the context of modern architecture, particularly in terms of aesthetics, functionality, and originality.
One of the most thought-provoking aspects of the study is its exploration of the mosque’s integration with its surroundings and the sustainability of traditional forms in a modern urban setting. This is particularly relevant for the energy sector, as the integration of traditional and modern elements can influence the design and implementation of sustainable energy solutions in urban environments.
The study also offers a unique perspective on the harmony between traditional and modern architecture in Turkey. While the repetition of traditional patterns in mosque architecture can limit creativity, it can also enrich the urban landscape with a sense of continuity and cultural identity. This balance is crucial for the future evolution of mosque architecture in Turkey, as it seeks to blend the old with the new in a way that is both respectful of the past and forward-looking.
Soy’s research is not just about the Maltepe Mosque; it’s about the broader implications for urban planning and architecture in Turkey and beyond. As cities continue to grow and evolve, the challenge of integrating traditional elements into modern structures will become increasingly important. This study provides valuable insights into how this can be achieved, offering a roadmap for architects, urban planners, and policymakers.
In an era where sustainability and cultural preservation are paramount, the Maltepe Mosque stands as a testament to the possibilities of harmonizing tradition with innovation. As Soy’s research shows, this balance is not just about aesthetics; it’s about creating spaces that are functional, sustainable, and deeply rooted in cultural identity. This study, published in the Journal of Design for Resilience in Architecture and Urban Planning, is a significant contribution to the field, offering a critical perspective on the future of mosque architecture and urban planning in Turkey.
