Post-Disaster Development through the ‘Creative City’ Concept: Case Study of the City of Adıyaman, Turkey

Abstract

This study explores the creative city approach as a transformative framework for post-disaster
urban development. While traditional strategies prioritize physical reconstruction, this
research theoretically argues that cultural heritage and creative potential are critical drivers for
sustainable recovery. Utilizing a qualitative methodology that integrates a comprehensive
literature review on cultural resilience with spatial observations from the earthquake-stricken
city of Adiyaman, the study examines how urban identity serves as leverage in rebuilding
processes. The principal result is the conceptualisation of a multilayered creative city model
focusing on cultural continuity, adaptive reuse, and community participation. Ultimately, the
study contributes to urban planning by proposing a strategic framework to create resilient,
inclusive, and innovative urban environments in post-disaster contexts.