IN-PERSON Barcelona. Section B

Abstract

Antakya had experienced numerous earthquake disasters since ancient times. Despite these disasters resulting in destruction, the city has managed to rebuild and continue its urban continuity. Jonas Borsh’s article, “God’s Wrath over Antioch, 525–540 CE: Beginning of the End,” serves as a substantial evidence of this reality. The author notes that sources related to disasters generally focus on moments of destruction, and gives references Malalas and Prokopius for limited narratives focusing on the aftermath of destruction. Both ancient writers describe the city’s redesign and resurgence after disasters, with Malalas’ Chronographia emphasizing the importance of information and reports regarding the post-earthquake period. In Borsch’s article, he emphasizes the narratives from ancient sources that contribute to understanding the concepts of ‘collapse,’ ‘continuity,’ and ‘resilience’ as narratives that should be considered in our contemporary context. The earthquakes that occurred on February 6th and February 20th, 2023, affecting 11 provinces along the Eastern Anatolian Fault Line described as the disaster of the century, once again brought history to repeat itself. Antakya faced a devastating catastrophe once more and suffered the worst damage and loss of life of all cities in the disaster zone including its cultural heritage. The main objective of this study is to determine the damage assessment analyses of the cultural heritage destroyed in the earthquake in Antakya region, and subsequently observe the action plans implemented. The research aims to investigate the restoration methodologies and conservation strategies of various institutions and non-governmental organizations. In this context, while unveiling the risks awaiting the improvement of the heritage of this city, which has risen from its ashes each time, the study will also discuss whether the regeneration planning and process will pose any obstacles to its revival once again.