Cultural Identity and Seismic Resilience in Vernacular Architecture: A Multidimensional Analysis of Traditional Houses in Diyarbakır, Türkiye

Abstract

Turkey’s diverse architectural heritage encompasses a wide range of vernacular housing traditions in which cultural identity and environmental adaptation are deeply intertwined. Among these traditions, the traditional houses of Diyarbakır—located in one of Türkiye’s most seismically active regions—offer a distinctive architectural model in which local identity, material culture, and resilience strategies converge within a coherent spatial logic. This study examines the cultural and identity-based dimensions of Diyarbakır’s vernacular houses through a comparative analysis of three representative examples: the Ziya Gökalp House, the Cahit Sıtkı Tarancı House, and the Cemil Pasha Mansion. Employing a descriptive–analytical methodology supported by literature review, historical documentation, and visual/field-based observations, the research investigates how spatial organization, material systems, and functional zoning encode cultural meaning while simultaneously responding to climatic and seismic conditions. The findings indicate that key architectural features—such as the haremlik–selamlık division, courtyard-centered planning, introverted spatial layouts, and the extensive use of local black basalt—reflect enduring social norms, cultural traditions, and environmental adaptation strategies. At the same time, structural characteristics including compact massing, thick masonry walls, low-rise configurations, and controlled façade openings significantly enhance the seismic performance of these dwellings. Overall, the study demonstrates that Diyarbakır’s traditional architecture expresses cultural identity not only at a symbolic level but also through structural logic and spatial performance. The results underline the potential of vernacular architectural principles as effective references for developing contemporary design approaches that are culturally grounded, environmentally responsive, and resilient in earthquake-prone regions, while supporting heritage-sensitive and seismic-resilient architectural strategies.