The Problem of Conservation Planning: Destruction / Reconstruction Paradox in ？stanbul’s Conservation Planning

Urban planning is influenced by two approaches, one of which attempts to create a new urban image, to renew or transform the city in accordance with the competitive city conceptualization of the urban age, and the other which tries to protect the city’s original structure. The basic question of this study is how planning has been instrumentalized by modernization of Turkey with special reference to international standards. This process, which will be defined through the basic paradox of urban planning discipline in terms of destruction/reconstruction on Istanbul case, is evaluated within the scope of relevant international conventions. The planning approach seems to lack a sustainable understanding of conservation. The protection of Istanbul's historical and cultural heritage in accordance with international norms is threatened by the aggressive economic, political and cultural tools of the urban age