Abstract: Türkiye`s first official seismic hazard map, entitled "Seismic Hazard Map", was published on July 12, 1945. Maps approved by the Council of Ministers and/or published in the Official Gazette are deemed "official", and compliance with the principles of the seismic zones specified on the map became mandatory in building processes.

Pursuant to the "Law on Measures to be Taken Before and After Earthquakes," which was implemented with publication in the Official Gazette dated July 22, 1944, this map was prepared by a commission established by the Ministries of Public Works and National Education. The map divides Türkiye in to three zones: areas that have suffered major damage, hazardous earthquake zones, and safe zones. Seismic zone maps and building earthquake regulations prepared in parallel with these maps play an important role in efforts to reduce earthquake risks.

Within the scope of this study, detailed information is provided about topics such as the need for creation of the first official seismic zone map, how it was prepared and what data was used, and its importance in terms of the national disaster/earthquake risk management system. This information is supplemented and integrated with data from studies conducted in Türkiye since the 1940s about seismic zone maps and building regulations. Thus, the aim is to provide a better understanding of the importance and background of the 1945 Türkiye Seismic Zone Map in terms of disaster risk management and to shed light on Türkiye`s history of earthquake mitigation.