Assessing the Soundscape Characteristics of Historical Urban Environments: An Analysis of the Historical Erbil Citadel and Its Environments

Abstract

This research addresses the neglect of sensory features, specifically the soundscape, in studies focused on preserving historic areas. The aim was to contribute to soundscape research by examining the effect of sound on the perception of urban historical places and the impact of the “renewal and transformation” process on audio-visual experiences. This study focused on the historical Erbil Citadel as a case study area, known for its extensive cultural history. Sound sources in the region were identified, recorded, and analyzed using software to calculate the Sound Pressure Level (SPL). The sound sources assessed as a result of the analysis were examined using Schafer’s sound characteristics. In this study, data was collected through a soundwalk study in the historical Erbil Citadel, and its surroundings were identified. The characteristics of the sounds were determined from the sound recordings, enabling the distinction of sounds contributing to the city’s identity. A route was established in its current state, and it was identified which regional precautions should be taken to preserve the sound identity of the city.