A Discussion on the Spatial Representation of the Ottoman Modernization: Urla Quarantine Building

 

ABSTRACT This paper focuses on a building, Urla Quarantine, in the city of Izmir, Turkey. The quarantine, which was constructed during the modernization period of the Ottoman Empire in 19th century, is slated to be transformed into a health museum at the moment due to its historical value. This idea of transformation has led this study to focus on the modern principles guiding the spatial organization and the context of this building. As a representation of Ottoman modernity, the building provided disciplinary instruments and spaces to preserve public health that were new to Ottomans that period. Thus, the aim of this paper is to examine more closely the internal and external dynamics that informed the construction of the building, the rational idea and the body-space relationships behind this medical building by comparing it with other examples.