Gautam Vegesna

Creating an interactive model of the Eastern City Center region of Ottoman Istanbul, Turkey circa 1700. An analysis of this map points towards the political, administrative and cultural functions of architecture, and the symbolism of public buildings and their role in cultural hegemony.

Started Dec. 1, 2022

Abstract or project description

The map was modeled on Blender V 3.4 and created using antique 2D maps of the region, and translated to 3D. The architectural landscape of the City Center region has changed with time to reflect historical changes in power. Thus the interactive map gives insight into the religious and political landscape of the region. For example, while this map of Ottoman Istanbul circa 1700 predominantly features mosques, past and future maps show churches in their places. Through the process of modeling, it was noted that Hagia Sophia underwent 18 official name changes over its history of approximately 600 years. Thus, such a map, can serve as a lens to a historical period and illustrate the critical and sometimes ignored role of public buildings in cultural hegemony.