Conservation of the traditional water mills in the Mediterranean Region of Turkey

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to ensure the preservation and sustainability of traditional water mills in Turkey with their original function and to allow these water mills to become heritage for future generations. Design/methodology/approach The study is the original examination of one sample water mill to be conserved, that is chosen from 11 water mills that were determined after the investigation of water mills in of Antalya, in Mediterranean Region. A preliminary study was first performed using the external observation method on 11 horizontal wheel water mills. The water mills to be accorded the highest priority with regards to conservation were selected based on their characteristics. Restoration techniques were then proposed to ensure the sustainability of the traditional production systems while retaining their original function. Findings The decision of water mill with the highest priority of conservation is based on the analysis of “structural damage,” “all seasons accessibility” and “supporting environmental factors.” This water mill was used primarily for grain production and is located on the Doyran River in Antalya. Current circumstance of the sample mill is analyzed, restoration techniques for the purpose of conservation and creation of recreational sites and that enable the presentation of traditional production methods are suggested. Social implications This paper includes implications for the contribution to the region’s cultural identity by developing the region’s infrastructure for cultural and ecological tourism and by ensuring the continuation of traditional production methods and craftsmanship. Originality/value This paper brings a new approach to the identification of water mills and the decision of the water mills to be conserved as a result of field studies.