The Spatial Essence Of Troglodytes and Legal Issues: The Case of Ortahisar Castle

In this study, the spatial essence of the troglodyte (rock) spaces in and around Ortahisar Castle and its surroundings, their definitions in architectural theory, and legal rights-ownership problems are discussed. The role of troglodyte spaces in architectural concepts is questioned, and a spatial definition within the definitions of architecture is expected. Troglodyte spaces are produced without the need for a designer, materials, or location. This situation creates not only a spatial problem for troglodyte spaces but also a property problem with overlapping and multi-layered spatialities. In addition, the legal dimensions of troglodyte spaces with amorphous shapes that cannot be defined by the known land registry-cadastral (parcelisation) systems are discussed. In order to solve these two problems, a three-dimensional point cloud analysis method is proposed. Thus, underground and aboveground spaces can be analyzed visually. The legal and spatial identifiability of troglodyte spaces is important in many aspects. Thus, these structures, which are cultural heritage, can be preserved and transferred to future generations. The necessity of using three-dimensional systems for two-dimensional parcellation and the importance of determining boundaries in troglodyte spatial arrangements are emphasized.