The History of Iran Architecture
Iranian or Persian architecture has been in existence since 5000 B.C. Although Iranian architecture has a variance of buildings, which include huts of common folk, the most noted examples are the structures of a grander scale, some of which have gained worldwide renown.
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Characteristics
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Buildings in Iran are usually made of clay or mud---widely available materials in the region. Plastic earth is often used with lime mortar to produce bricks. Forms used are usually the circle and the square, with rectangular foundations or layouts. Iranian buildings are usually replete with columns, recesses, arches and towers with elaborate decoration.
Pre-Islamic Period
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Whatever architectural inspiration the region had before the advent of Islam was drawn from the civilizations around the area at the time. The Elamites (c. 2700 B.C. to 539 B.C.), Achaemenids (539 B.C. to 330 B.C.), Parthians (247 B.C. to A.D. 224) and Sassanids (AD 224 to AD 651) are examples. The Achaemenids in particular--they ran the first Persian empire in Iran--were grand builders, constructing magnificent gardens and palaces. The capital of the Achaemenid empire, Persepolis, is perhaps the best example of such work.
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Islamic Period
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With Muslim forces conquering Iran in the mid-seventh century, consequently replacing the Sassinid empire (sometimes referred to as the "Second Persian Empire") with theirs, religious buildings, particularly majestic mosques, put an Islamic stamp on Iranian architecture. Calligraphy--writing as a visual art--became a prominent feature in buildings, as did domes, stucco and mosaics. However, Muslim rulers did draw inspiration from the local style as well. For example, regional city planners oversaw the building of the city of Baghdad, which was the capital of the Abbasid Caliphate (750 to 1258).
Contemporary Period
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Modern-day Iranian architecture stays faithful to its heritage, yet occasionally uses modern building techniques. The main campus of Tehran University is a prime example. The National Museum of Iran, inaugurated in 1937, consists of buildings that were inspired by the two previous periods of Iranian architectural style.
Possible Future
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It is likely that Iranian architecture will continue to modernize---not just in method, but also in aesthetics. For instance, the Milad Tower maintains a traditional octagonal base while housing modern-day features such as telecommunications and computer units.
World Heritage Sites
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The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has honored Iranian architecture with several places designated as World Heritage Sites. The ancient Achaemenid seat of government, Persepolis, is among the eight places in Iran awarded with that designation.
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References
- Photo Credit youngrobv/flickr.com
