Commercial Functions Changes of Bursa Historical City Centre in the 16th Century and Today

Abstract

Urban space acquires different features over time through the changes in its social and economic characteristics and production and consumption structure. Urban centres and their environs are the spaces where these changes and transformations could be observed most clearly (Gokce 2005, 73). Spaces in historical cities are shaped by the choices made in accordance with the requirements of the social and economic conditions of the era that they represent. In other words, these spaces are shaped by the choice regarding what function should be together or separate, which is related to the economic function of the city during that period. Historic commercial centres are subject to continuous change and transformation due to the changing socio-economic and cultural structure and relations of production and consumption. Organized within a traditional structure, these spaces have survived until today with their altering meanings and different identities as well as the restructuration they went through because of the socio-economic transformation processes. Besides, they are not only shopping areas or consumption spaces but also urban areas with a traditional style of manufacture and crafts. In this study, spatial change of commercial functions is reviewed in two time periods: in the 16th century, when the historical commercial centre completed its formation, and at the present time in Bursa Historical City Centre.