ABSTRACT
This chapter begins by laying out the geo-historical context of Antakya as a border city and a history of Arab Alawites in Turkey and Syria. Chapter 2 demonstrates the historical roots of the fragile relationship between the province of Antakya (and its communities) and the Turkish state. It focuses on how Turkish nationalism prevailed and an Antiochian urban culture which is based on the notion of “diversity” was formed in post-1939 Antakya. The annexation of Antakya by Turkey as a process of boundary-making has been an important part of Turkish state formation. In this sense, the modern history of Antakya and its position as a source of tension between Turkey and Syria play a significant role in Turkey’s Syria policy today. It also provides geographical context by looking at “place-making” and explains existing divisions in this border city.
