A critique on private ownership and protection of architectural heritage: Case study of Arpaz Tower

Appropriate conservation and management practices for architectural heritage are crucial for national and local governments to develop since they are not only valuable individually as monuments, but they also impact the environment they are located in. However, this process can become complex when the property has a private owner. The aim of this research is to discuss the issue of private ownership in the conservation and restoration of architectural heritage and to provide an overview of its positive and negative aspects. To analyse these aspects, Arpaz Tower, which is located in the Western region of Anatolia and owned by the same family until recently (since it was built in the 19th century) was selected as a pilot study. The analysis of the performed research suggests that it might not always be possible to manage and protect an architectural heritage only with the efforts of private owners or governmental organisations. Therefore, a concrete strategy that can inform the owners before and during the protection process and adequate collaboration is required.