ABSTRACT

Vernacular heritage is deeply rooted in the context (topographic, climatic, social, cultural, or symbolic) in which it is made. Building upon the literature review, this chapter examines the characteristics of the selected case study area, with a particular focus on the vernacular landscapes in the hinterland of Fındıklı from a regional to local scale. It offers a detailed account of the administrative, historical, geographical, climatic, topographical, and socio-economic conditions that shape the vernacular landscapes of Fındıklı today. These dynamic landscapes evolve through the continuous interaction between local communities and their environment—both natural and built—reflecting intertwined economic, social, and cultural dimensions. This chapter also explores the vernacular architecture of the city and district, identifying differences in construction techniques and materials through literature analysis. To broaden the understanding of vernacular expressions in similar contexts, this chapter also introduces three comparative cases, though in less detail, to highlight variations and commonalities in architectural practices, materials, and settlement patterns across different regions.