a b s t r a c tArchaeological sites, which are the integral parts of cultural heritage, have to be conserved as a whole to have a variety of information about past societies. In this study, the weathering problems of unburied and newly excavated andesite monuments in Aigai archaeological site (Manisa, Turkey) were investigated for the purpose of their conservation. With this intent, the basic physical properties, mineralogical and chemical compositions and microstructural properties of sound and weathered samples were determined by using XRD, SEM-EDS, FT-IR and TGA analysis. Results of the study indicated that the weathering mechanisms of unburied and post-excavated andesite differ from each other. The main weathering problems observed on the unburied stones are mainly increasing microcracks from inner parts to the surfaces, deposition of iron oxides and microbiological colonization due to climatic conditions of the site. In the newly excavated areas, calcium carbonate deposition, accumulation of clay minerals and microbiological colonization are the main weathering problems due to weathering of silica minerals through the action of carbon dioxide and water during burial.

Historical settlements, which are integral parts of the cultural heritage, should be documented and evaluated with their local characteristics. The aim of this study is to document, analyze and evaluate the architectural, environmental and social characteristics of an urban settlement called Değirmendağı District, which has a historical background beginning with the Roman period to the present, in the center of metropolitan city of İzmir, on the Aegean coast of Turkey. The settlement is one of the earliest that was planned by local administration in İzmir and contributes to the İzmir silhouette with its location on a steep hillside in the township of Konak.Documentation methods used are sketches, photography and architectural and social questionnaires. Inventory cards were prepared to collect architectural characteristics of each building and the social questionnaires were comprised of socio-economic characteristics of the settlers. Data gathered at the site was analyzed and evaluated to develop a conservation approach, including historical review of the ancient era.Since the area is easily accessible and close to city center, the area becomes attractive. It has the advantage of the vista based on its inclined topography and grid-planned scheme. Değirmendağı District is a special area requiring special conservation within the city of İzmir. However, historical pattern has changed through the years because of changing lifestyle. The area, which is one of the most important and valuable districts in İzmir considering its history, location, and architectural characteristics should be integrated with the city and citizens. This study documents the present potentials and values of the area and forms a basis to prepare conservation approaches.

In this study, conservation and renovation proposals for Hamdi Dalan Soap Factory, where industrial production was carried out at various times especially after the Industrial Revolution, have been developed within the scope of integrating it with its built environment, settlement identity and public/social life. The building is located in Izmir Historical Kemeraltı zone and due to the technological developments of the later period and production oriented economic policies, has lost its function and has been abandoned. This paper aims to discuss a process of participation, implemented and intended works whose pros and cons will be determined. To achieve this, Izmir Metropolitan Municipality has carried out a multidisciplinary "Izmir History Project".

Tahtakale Bath, which is located in the town of Tire in the province of İzmir, Turkey, was constructed in the 15 th. century and is one of the outstanding existing examples of Ottoman period baths. The building, which was designed as a double bath, was considerably damaged because of inaccurate interventions after losing its original function, lack of maintenance and natural circumstances. The parts which were reused have considerably lost their original characteristics. This study aims to introduce the construction technique of Tahtakale Bath, which was studied in the scope of a restoration project, and to present the studies on the determination of structural problems, structural strengthening decisions and implementations.Strengthening implementations were carried out in the bathing spaces of the men's section and felt workshop of the building depending on decisions of the restoration project. The original construction technique and materials of the walls, superstructure and architectural details of the building were consolidated by appropriate restoration decisions and implementation works.