Social Science and Human Research Bulletin

Historical buildingsserve as important cultural assets, reflecting the past and the lifestyleof their respective eras. Their preservation is crucial, requiring continuous maintenance and appropriate repurposing. Churches, in particular, carry symbolic and historical significance, acting as monuments that transfer knowledge and culture across generations. The question of how to reuse these structures without compromising their integrity is a key issue in conservation. This study focuses on the Haydarpaşa Mosque in Nicosia, originally built as St. Catherine Church. The structurehas undergone multiplefunctional transformations: first serving as a church,later converted into a mosque, and now functioning as an art gallery. After being used for religious purposes twice, it has taken on a cultural role. The research examines how these changes align with the building’s architectural features, its integration into the urban fabric, and its suitability for different functions. The study also includes examples of churches worldwide that have been repurposed for new uses,analyzing their transformation processes. Limited to Nicosia and this specific building, the research employs qualitative methods, incorporating observations, academic literature, theses, and online resources. Additionally, local residents were surveyed to gather opinions on the current function of the structure and potential alternative uses that could benefit the public. The results, combined with literature findings, provide a comparative perspective on adaptive reuse strategies for historical buildings. The study evaluates whether the current function of the Haydarpaşa Mosque aligns with its historical and architectural characteristics while drawing parallels with similar cases. Ultimately, it highlights the importance of sustainable conservation and appropriate function assignment in preserving historical structures.

re-functioning, Nicosia, church, structure and function suitability

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