A heritage ecosystem in motion: Yörük spatial practices and the ecology of mobility

Purpose This study aims to translate the spatial logic embedded in the temporary settlements of Yörük communities into a visual spatial grammar in order to reframe nomadic spatial practices as mobile heritage ecosystems. Design/methodology/approach An in-motion visual grammar approach was developed to analyze six Yörük settlements based on schematic diagrams and ethnographic documentation. The spatial analysis focused on three interrelated parameters: positional patterns, componential layouts and flow and transition paths. Findings The findings show that Yörük settlements follow a visual spatial grammar expressed through rules (R1–R9). The consistency of these rules across different settlements indicates that mobility functions as a cultural logic that generates re-usable and adaptable spatial configurations. Originality/value This study offers a novel contribution by conceptualizing nomadic settlement systems as living heritage ecosystems, thereby expanding the scope of heritage discourse beyond sedentary frameworks. Through the integration of visual patterns, it highlights how ephemeral, mobile spatial practices can embody enduring ecological and cultural knowledge systems.