ABSTRACT
This chapter examines urban risk management approach to cultural heritage through the case study of Istanbul's Historical Peninsula which has been exposed to conflicts, earthquakes, fires, and rapid urbanisation practices. This case study presents the way in which cultural heritage preservation was contemplated within the context of planning for disasters in Istanbul, starting from the fire disasters in the 19th century to the earthquake-based planning activities within the last few decades.
The chapter argues that urban cultural heritage preservation within the scope of disaster risk reduction requires context-based instruments tailored for individual sites and should be considered in unison with risk-based planning activities. The increasing stress on urban cultural heritage from crises and disasters requires a unified and systematic approach to urban risk management ensuring that urban heritage is protected for our cultural continuity and resilience and sustainable development at large.
