B.

Various concept studies were developed for the conservation and adaptive reuse of Yoros Castle for the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality. Strategically located at the northern entrance of the Bosphorus, the castle dates back to the late Roman period (13th century), when it was constructed to control maritime traffic between the Black Sea and the strait. It was later occupied and reinforced by the Genoese, who held the site for nearly a century, further strengthening its defensive role.

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Over time, the castle was abandoned and remained largely inaccessible to visitors. Its towers and defensive walls survived, though partially in ruin, reflecting centuries of neglect and exposure. The surrounding landscape had also been altered by temporary and lightweight structures, which disrupted the natural topography. Despite this, the site retains a powerful presence, offering panoramic views of the Black Sea, the Bosphorus, and the surrounding green hills.

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The design approach was based on conservation through minimal intervention, acknowledging both the historical significance of the ruins and the realities of contemporary use. Rather than reconstructing the castle to a presumed original state, the proposal focused on stabilizing and preserving the existing structure, allowing it to retain its authenticity. Recognizing that unused heritage is vulnerable, the project introduced limited and carefully positioned functions to reactivate the site.

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All new program elements were located outside the castle walls, preserving the integrity of the historic fabric. Visitors arrive at a car park set at a distance from the castle and continue on foot, creating a gradual and controlled approach. The first structure encountered is a café with a panoramic terrace, serving as both a resting point and a visual introduction to the site.

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A small museum dedicated to the history of the castle was proposed on a previously disturbed part of the landscape. This intervention restores the natural topography while defining an entrance square for visitors and enhancing orientation.

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Overall, the project treats Yoros Castle as a living ruin—preserved and reactivated through subtle, landscape-based interventions that respect its historical layers while making it accessible and meaningful for contemporary use.