The development of Ottoman urban regulations: Istanbul, 1700-1900

Abstract

This study focuses on the formation of urban regulations in the Ottoman State between 1700-1900, analyzing the eighteenth century as a preparatory period for the systematic approach of the nineteenth century. The building codes and regulations issued in the eighteenth century were based on cases regarding fires and ethno-religious disputes. Starting from 1826, consecutive regulations were enacted to establish general schemes, ranging from preferred construction types to the widening of roads. The evolution of the regulations showed a progress from determining individual cases to considering the urban space as a whole, although the main concern was still fire mitigation. © 2018 selection and editorial matter, Terry R. Slater and Sandra M.G. Pinto; individual chapters, the contributors.