WIYANA CULTURE CENTER / Zehra Zeynep Koyuncu
The Wiyana Culture Center, situated in Mustafapaşa (Sinasos), Cappadocia, is an architectural project designed to celebrate the region’s rich history, culture, and wine-making traditions. Inspired by the lifestyles of four distinct communities—Hittites, Christians, Ottomans, and Turks—the center features dwelling units that reflect their architectural styles and cultural practices. Central to the design are underground wine production facilities and cellars, seamlessly integrated into the volcanic landscape, symbolizing the region’s long-standing wine culture.
The project incorporates terraced vineyards cascading along the hillsides, aligning with the natural topography and promoting ecological sustainability. These terraces enhance the visual appeal, prevent soil erosion, and optimize water retention. A cultural route links the historic Aziz Stefanos Church and Aziz Nikolas Monastery, passing through Christian-themed dwellings. This pathway, inspired by vibrant streets like Istanbul’s French Street, fosters community interaction, offering spaces for wine tastings, social gatherings, and cultural events.
A wine experience museum, located near the monastery, provides immersive visual and sensory experiences, enriching visitors’ understanding of the wine-making process. The center’s design blends open and semi-open spaces, creating a harmonious relationship between architecture, landscape, and community. The Wiyana Culture Center embodies cultural revival, ecological responsibility, and social engagement, making it a unique destination in Cappadocia.
