ANATOPIA / Esma Nur Yıldırım
The project is named Anatopia, reflecting a place where people come and go, where beginnings and endings converge. This name emerged from site visits and extensive research, inspired by the historical and cultural layers of Mustafapaşa. Historically, Mustafapaşa was inhabited by the Rum population before migration, later becoming a settlement for Turkish communities, and now it stands as a touristic attraction. In this context, Mustafapaşa symbolizes a point where Rums departed, Turks settled, and tourists explored—a unique intersection of cultures over time. The project is built around spatial, experiential, and sensory elements while deeply rooted in the historical and geographical essence of the site. Water, light, wind, existing natural elements, traditional activities such as cooking (aşevi), landscape features, bridges, stone carvings, and iron craftsmanship were identified as symbols representing the topology of the area. These symbols inspired the concept, defined as “Echoes of Symbols”. The chosen site is located in the northwest valley of Mustafapaşa, where a living water source exists. This area, rich in historical stone carvings and natural elements, serves as the foundation of the design. The project seeks to create an experiential path centered around this water source, revitalizing the heart of Mustafapaşa while staying true to its origins and offering a meaningful experience for visitors. The design incorporates the physical and cultural morphological layers of Mustafapaşa, using symbolic elements as both tools and purposes to interpret and define the site. Through a strategically developed perception of space, visitors are invited to interact with artifacts embedded in the landscape, exploring the stories, memories, and cultural connections that shape the site. Together, these elements evoke a sense of remembrance and revival of what has been left behind. They are arranged along a constantly shifting route, ensuring a unique experience for every visitor. In this way, the symbols foster continuity between the old and the new, creating a profound connection between visitors and the site.
