REVITALIZATION OF ARCHITECTURAL HERITAGE THROUGH THEIR FUNCTIONAL REORGANIZATION (original) (raw)

This paper presents a study of possibilities of reviving architectural heritage in order to use it as touristic attraction and recreational activity through its functional reorganization. Through the scientific historical method, the construction and initial use of Hammam of Gazi Mehmed Pasha in Prizren has been studied. This important item of architectural heritage is examined in the context of its revitalization through functional reorganization offering space to create opportunities for the realization of cultural and recreational activities. Based on the analysis of intervention in the faclity, by changing its original function, in the case of Gazi Mehmed Pasha Hammam into an Art Gallery, it was concluded that this mode of intervention in the architectural heritage can be very effective, transforming it from a place that is rarely visited into highly frequented location, through the activities of the day. In this way the architectural heritage becomes a potential major tourist and recreational facility and also in this way this facility establishes a self sustained economy for its permanent maintenance. It is fundamental that during preconception of its function, new activities that will be foreseen in its new function should not present a risk to the longevity of the building and preservation of its architectural identity.