The Effects of Gentrification on Cultural Identity : A case study in İstanbul, Sulukule

Abstract: Gentrification is a formation that demonstrate the revitalisation of urban areas where local inhabitants is displaced and force to move other districts. In the last years, there are several debates about positive and negative consequences of revitalisation projects. This paper discusses the effects of gentrification researched through an analysis and perspective on changes in a given district. It underlines the influences of alterations on the cultural landscapes and cultural identities. Focusing on the historic neighbourhood of İstanbul, Sulukule as a case study, this thesis analyses the change on character of a region with particular attention to the shifts of identity of a district. The aim is examining the role of gentrification on cultural identity, its effects, project process and consequences for neighbourhoods.