Evaluation on Accessibility in Historical Environments in Turkey: Ankara Ulus Environment Example

Historical environments bear traces of the past and have cultural and historical importance. These places are essential to respect the past, understand history, and preserve cultural heritage. However, many historic neighborhoods face accessibility issues. Accessibility is a fundamental concept that refers to the ability of people to be present and participate effectively in any space. This principle has an importance that cannot be ignored in every academic discipline in its own field of specialization and there is a need to take this principle into account in all kinds of production processes. The most problematic spatial area for this participation to be ensured through universal access is the historical environmen which form a unique part of cultural identity with their characteristic structures and distinctive features. Therefore, accessibility is crucial to ensure the preservation of cultural heritage and the active participation of society in. Problems in these areas restrict access to these spaces for people with disabilities, pregnant women, people with strollers and the elderly, and have a negative impact on the visitor experience. In this study, the Turkish Grand National Assembly / War of Independence Museum located in Historical Ulus, the Turkish Grand National Assembly Museum, Is Bank Museum, Ankara Social Sciences University Campus, and Hacı Bayram Veli Mosque and its surroundings were evaluated. The evaluations were supported with visuals, according to the criteria specified in the Accessibility Guide prepared by the Ministry of Family, Labor and Social Services. The study found attempts to improve accessibility for individuals with disabilities, but correct practices were largely absent. Issues such as dimensional errors, improper material selection and structural inadequacies were common. These problems are summarized in the evaluation section. This study aims to demonstrate that historical buildings can be made accessible by addressing access issues with solutions like tactile surfaces, markings, and ramps.