İstanbul’daki Endüstriyel Miras Yapılarının Kültürel Amaçlı Yeniden İşlevlendirilmesinin Kent Turizmi Açısından Önemi

During the Ottoman and Republic periods, Istanbul emerged as an industrial hub, with numerous industrial structures built that became key elements of the city's urban identity. However, some of these buildings fell out of use over time and ceased operations, leading to abandonment. As these structures bear significant historical, cultural, and architectural value, they offer substantial potential for repurposing. Within the scope of the study, examples of projects from industrial heritage buildings in Istanbul that have been repurposed for cultural purposes, such as museums, art centers and theaters, will be discussed and their contributions to city tourism will be examined. By employing a qualitative approach based on observational project analysis, an empirical investigation will be conducted. The study aims to reveal the positive effects of these projects on urban tourism, which create a point of attraction for both local and foreign tourists by adapting the industrial heritage with cultural functions. These industrial heritage structures not only preserve traces of the past but also offer conducive environments for modern tourism activities, promoting cultural tourism. Reflecting Istanbul’s historical industrial identity, these buildings provide visitors with insights into that era, raise awareness in cultural tourism, and present unique experiences that blend the past and present within the historical fabric. The international recognition of these projects enhances the appeal of Istanbul’s tourism sector, significantly contributing to the local economy. Moreover, with these re-functionalized projects, it is possible to preserve the cultural heritage and transfer it to future generations.