An Examination of The Use of Courtyard in Traditional Turkish Houses from The Perspective of Yarenlik and ICH: The Case of Kula

This study examines the courtyard space, a significant architectural element in traditional Kula houses, and analyzes the spatial requirements of the traditional Yarenlik ritual in relation to this space. Courtyard-based residential architecture in Anatolia is comprehensively analyzed with respect to climate, privacy, and typology. Additionally, the socio-spatial role of the courtyard is considered within the framework of the Yaren phenomenon and intangible cultural heritage (ICH). The spatial concept is grounded in Henri Lefebvre's definition, which characterizes space as a cyclical phenomenon produced by social life and generating social relations. Accordingly, the courtyard is interpreted not only as a product of climatic and formal considerations but also as a space shaped by social interaction. To substantiate the conceptual framework, a spatial analysis was conducted on three traditional courtyard houses from the 18th century in Kula, which exemplify courtyard-based ground floor plans. This spatial analysis examined the architectural reading, spatial usage ratios, mapping related to action-space-ritual, identification of communal seating areas, spatial identification of the spaces used by the Yaren during their activities (performance, food service, show, service), mobile or seated uses, group seating, central performance, hierarchical positioning, and the documented services of Yaren gatherings. The findings indicate that there is both spatial and action-related compatibility between the courtyard typology and ritual actions. Yarenlik is still being kept alive and sustained today, even outside of courtyard houses that are no longer in use. This research, which seeks to reveal the reciprocal relationship between built form and intangible values, contributes to the assertion that traditional courtyard houses are not only tangible architectural works but also the primary requirement for the realisation of social intangible cultural heritage values.