Traditional Conservation Places: The Example of Çankırı Yaren Room

Traditional sohbet meetings are an important heritage that has conveyed the social solidarity, cultural identity and common values of Turkish society for centuries. Although these meetings, known by different names in different regions of Anatolia, are similar in content, they differ in terms of spatial arrangements. In this study, it is aimed to reveal the original qualities of the spaces where the Yaren tradition in Çankırı, which is a part of the traditional sohbet meetings included in UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage List, is carried out by analyzing the architectural features, interior arrangements and design concepts. Qualitative research method was used in the study. Yaren rooms in Çankırı center and in the villages were visited and the architectural features, interior arrangements and decorative elements of these rooms were examined in detail. Of the Yaren rooms examined, the Yaren room in Şabanözü Gürpınar village has a circular plan, while those in other villages have rectangular and square plans. The seating arrangements are arranged in accordance with the sohbet culture. There are special seating areas for Büyük Başağa and Küçük Başağa in the rooms and these places are arranged in accordance with the hierarchical order. A central area called the square is used for conversation and traditional activities. Traditional materials such as carpets, rugs, bundles and fabrics are used as decorative elements. The sitting corners of the Başağas are decorated with satin fabric and special cushions. Ceiling decorations are generally plain. As a result, Yaren rooms should be introduced to a wider audience, and awareness should be increased through media and education. Academic studies on Yaren culture should be encouraged and archived. Institutions should cooperate for the sustainability of cultural heritage, and structures should be restored according to their original functions. This tradition should be introduced with education and activities aimed at young people, and supportive cultural policies should be developed to keep it alive.