Defining Old Cities: Guardians of Architectural Heritage and Collective Memory

Abstract

Old cities represent architectural heritage and collective memory, shaped by centuries of gradual evolution. While research often focuses on physical preservation, limited studies explore how old cities maintain cultural and socioeconomic relevance in modern contexts. This study addresses the gap by defining old cities in architectural and urban planning terms and investigating their value in a modernizing world. Using a mixed-method approach, including a literature review and expert surveys, the research identifies key attributes of old cities: historical continuity, cultural significance, and socioeconomic resilience. These elements are essential to their identity and relevance. To qualify as an old city, a settlement must preserve its physical and cultural essence over time, with urban fabric tied to collective memory and a distinct "spirit of place." Settlements lacking these traits cannot be considered old cities. The findings contribute to sustainable urban development by emphasizing the importance of preserving old cities' unique identities.