Hostile Architectural Practices in Some of Ankara’s Historic and Monumental Buildings

Abstract

Public spaces are areas within social life where citizens’ access is guaranteed. These spaces, which are of great social importance, are being eroded through architectural and spatial interventions. Among the interventions that erode public spaces, practices referred to as hostile architecture have gained attention in recent research, particularly due to their restrictive nature. Ankara, the capital of Turkey, stands out as a critical location with remarkable examples of exclusionary architectural practices. The examples of hostile architecture observed in Ankara are particularly concentrated within some historic and monumental buildings. This study examines the examples of hostile architecture present in some historic and monumental buildings situated in the vicinity of Ankara’s key public spaces. The research methodology consisted of on-site observations and photographic documentation to record these findings. The study revealed that in buildings located in Ankara’s logistical and religious centers, ornithological deterrent systems targeting urban wildlife were particularly prominent. On the other hand, in buildings located in Ankara’s bureaucratic and commercial centers, it was observed that hostile architectural practices took the form of anthropometric barriers that made it impossible for people to sit, rest, and socialize.