Cultural Destruction from North Macedonia to Western Thrace

The Ottoman cultural assets in Western Thrace cities such as North Macedonia are tangible documents of history. The vandalisation and deliberate destruction of cultural assets is an important indicator of disrespect for this culture.

Over time, historical and cultural values have been targeted and systematically destroyed by the rulers of the region. As a result of these destructions, the Ottoman architectural heritage in the cities of both countries was ignored and a new identity was tried to be created. When we look at the old photo albums of the cities, we can better understand and comprehend this destruction.

Ottoman artefacts were deliberately targeted and demolished in order to build new structures and spaces under the name of modern urbanism. Targeting and destroying cultural heritage brought many problems in the aftermath. When we look at today's cities where Ottoman artefacts were demolished, you will see that the reinforced concrete structures there create an ugly appearance in the cities.

The future of heritage?
If we could see the traces of this demolished heritage today, we would be encountering cities with high historical value. In addition to those that have been demolished, it is important that our historical monuments, which have survived under difficult conditions, are preserved, transferred to future generations and promoted in order to understand their past, present and future. Compared to the past, the increase in the number of cultural heritage conservation boards in today's world provides us with this opportunity. Taking these steps will not only affect cultural structures, but will also help our people to raise awareness by protecting their historical heritage.

Much can be said about this subject. I can only say that we may not be able to "bring back the lost heritage", but we can prevent new cultural destruction in cities.