Turkey's restored historic sites deteriorate amid neglect

The historic Kahramanmaraş Castle is undergoing extensive restoration after the February 6 earthquakes, with the mayor of Kahramanmaraş, Fırat Görgel, inspecting work on the walls, strengthening damaged sections, and constructing a new visitor centre. The project, coordinated by the municipal government and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, aims to preserve the castle’s original fabric while making it safe for future generations.

In İzmir, the 16th‑century Namazgâh Hamam, which was restored by the metropolitan municipality, was transferred to the Directorate of Foundations (Vakıflar) and left unsecured. Within three months the building was locked, vandalized and stripped of copper and brass fittings, with thieves and drug users entering the site. Local residents and shopkeepers have complained about the lack of protection and called for authorities to intervene to prevent further loss of the cultural heritage.