Spatial Quality Assessment in Historical Urban Environment: Malatya-Battalgazi Case

Abstract It is necessary to know the urban texture and spatial interactions so that the historical urban textures in the change and development dynamics have to meet today's needs and not to turn into deposition areas. In this sense, the aim of this study is to emphasize spatial performances of the cultural heritage at the historical urban fabric of Battalgazi in the city of Malatya, having many cultural layers, in the city landscape, and to produce solution suggestions for protection-development- renewal purposes within a holistic planning approach. 18 cultural properties, as the scope of the study, within the borders of Alacakapı, Meydanbaşı, Toptaş and Karahan Quarters within the boundaries set by Battalgazi 3rd Degree Archaeological Site and Interaction Area Conservation Development Plan were evaluated according to the spatial quality criteria. As a result of the study, it was determined that the improvement of structural comforts provided spatial mobility and that some buildings and areas where protection or excavation works were not conducted are included in the structural and environmental settlement and thus are not perceived in the historical city center within the context of the spatial quality parameters of the cultural assets in the study area. In general, it has been decided that the contribution levels of the cultural assets are low, that they are to be supported in terms of use and activities and accessibility (especially pedestrian activity), and that conservation development plan decisions are to be applied.