“Bornova Heritage” project introduced with a grand event

Bornova Municipality introduced the “Bornova Heritage” project—which brings together the city’s 8,500-year history under one single framework—at an event held at Dramalılar Köşkü. Bornova Mayor Ömer Eşki emphasized that the project aims to build a shared urban memory and accurately pass the city’s cultural heritage on to future generations. During the event, the Bornova Heritage Map, digital platform, and 25 historical stops—prepared with contributions from academics—were presented to participants.

Bornova Municipality officially launched the “Bornova Heritage” project, which approaches the city’s 8,500-year history in a holistic way, during an event held at Dramalılar Köşkü. From archaeological sites to Levantine mansions, from museums to cultural heritage points, Bornova’s rich past has been brought together under one roof for the first time. The launch was attended by Karşıyaka Mayor Yıldız Ünsal, representatives of political parties and NGOs, academics, and many guests.

Mayor Eşki: “This project is the most valuable legacy we will leave for the future of the city”

In his speech, Bornova Mayor Ömer Eşki underlined that the Bornova Heritage Project is not just a promotional initiative but a major step toward preserving the city’s history and creating a shared memory.

Mayor Eşki noted that since the start of his term, the administration has prioritized preserving Bornova’s history with accurate documentation, saying:

“We wanted to gather all data about Bornova’s 8,500-year history in an organized, accessible, and scientific structure. This project—if I may say so—was inspired by Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality’s ‘Istanbul Heritage’ initiative. But Bornova had an even more organic counterpart: a story living in every stone, every street of our city. We want to record this story, keep it alive, and pass it on to future generations the right way.”

Eşki also mentioned that their experience with previous oral history projects involving Bornova’s older generations helped shape the project.
He added:

“What makes a city a city is its memory. People who value and know their city also protect it. With the Bornova Heritage project, we aim for Bornovalı residents to rediscover their own city. I thank everyone who contributed.”

Prof. Dr. Hasan Mert: “A project that will fill a major gap in Bornova’s history”

One of the project’s major contributors, Ege University faculty member Prof. Dr. Hasan Mert, who has studied Bornova’s history for over 20 years, described the importance of the project:

“Bornova is a unique settlement with its geography, historical heritage, and development dynamics. Yet this rich history had never been presented in a unified way. Bornova Heritage fills this gap and creates a valuable bridge between the past and the future.”

Museum Director Şükrü Koçak: “This project is a journey into memory”

Bornova Municipality Museum Director Şükrü Koçak stated that the project was built on rigorous academic work. With contributions from 30 academics, 25 historical locations were identified and brought together under the Bornova Heritage framework.
Koçak noted:

“Bornova is not just a district; it is a living memory where thousands of years of stories are layered on top of each other. Our goal is not to place the past on display—it is to make it part of today and tomorrow. Heritage is not only preserved; it is shared, felt, and kept alive.”

After the speeches, guests visited the Bornova Heritage information kiosks and explored the project with guidance from experts. The program concluded with a “Bornova Heritage Family Photo” taken in front of the specially prepared display board.

Key Components of the Bornova Heritage Project

Bornova Heritage Map
A comprehensive map bringing together the city’s historical and cultural points in a visual guide consisting of thematic, walkable stops.

Digital Platform and Website
A user-friendly digital experience enriched with oral histories and specially prepared content for each location.

Exploration on-site and online
Heritage structures that can be explored both physically and digitally through restoration, promotion, and awareness activities.