Evaluating the Impact of Social Media and Digital Platforms on Erzurum’s Historical Environment

With the innovations brought by technology, traditional conservation methods have become insufficient; this situation raises questions regarding the role of social media and digital platforms in strengthening the interaction between the historic environment and society, and how these tools can be utilized more effectively. The aim of this study is to examine and evaluate the contributions of social media and digital platforms to the promotion of Erzurum’s historic environment, the preservation of cultural heritage, and its adaptive reuse. Additionally, it seeks to understand how these platforms can enhance public interest in the historic environment, expand the reach of our heritage to broader and international audiences, contribute to education and awareness, and support economic development. As the research method, a literature review was conducted alongside a survey aimed at evaluating the impact of social media and digital platforms on the historic environment in the central areas of Erzurum, where historic buildings are densely concentrated. The survey was administered via Google Forms to individuals of varying ages and educational backgrounds. The collected data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics software, and the results were presented through tables and graphs, followed by a comprehensive evaluation. As a result of the study, the contributions of social media and digital platforms to the promotion, conservation, adaptive reuse, and cultural heritage of Erzurum’s historic environment were discussed. Furthermore, solutions were proposed to enhance community engagement, broaden the reach of our heritage, and strengthen intercultural interaction.