Learn about Iran's architecture

Summary

This video explores the rich architectural heritage of Iran, spanning both pre- and post-Islamic periods. It highlights six key styles of Iranian architecture, from the Zoroastrian and Parthian eras to the Islamic period, covering significant examples like Persepolis, the Tomb of Cyrus the Great, and the mosques of Isfahan. The influence of geometry, local materials, and symbolic designs is emphasized, alongside the role of decorative elements like glazed tiles and calligraphy. Persian domes, known for their distinct turquoise appearance, are also discussed as iconic features of Iran's architectural legacy.

Takeaways

• 🎶 Iranian architecture is highly diverse, showcasing both structural and aesthetic variety, influenced by various traditions and experiences.
• 🏛️ According to historian Arthur Pope, architecture has always been the supreme art of Iran, spanning both pre- and post-Islamic periods.
• 🏛️ Traditional Iranian architecture is categorized into six styles: Zoroastrian, Parthian, Khorasani, Razi, Azari, and Isfahani.
• 🏛️ Pre-Islamic architectural styles include the Persian and Parthian styles, exemplified by landmarks like Persepolis, the tomb of Cyrus the Great, and Zoroastrian temples.
• 🏛️ Islamic architectural styles in Iran began with the Khorasani style, evolving through the Razi and Azari periods, and peaked during the Isfahani style.
• 🏛️ Notable examples of Islamic Iranian architecture include the Jammeh Mosque of Isfahan, Chehel Sotoun, and the Shah Mosque in Naqsh-e Jahan Square.
• 🏛️ Iranian architecture emphasizes symbolic geometry, often using shapes like circles and squares, with layouts that are symmetrical, featuring courtyards and halls.
• 🏛️ Pre-Islamic architecture in Iran evolved over 3,000 to 4,000 years, influencing post-Islamic styles, which incorporated geometric, decorative surfaces such as glazed tiles and calligraphy.
• 🏛️ Persian domes, introduced during the Sasanid Empire, became distinct for their colorful tiled exteriors and blue-turquoise hues, which glittered in the sunlight.
• 🎶 Many experts consider the 15th to 17th centuries to be the pinnacle of Persian architecture, producing iconic mosques, bazaars, palaces, and bridges.

Q & A

What is considered the supreme art form in Iranian culture according to Arthur Pope?

According to Persian historian and archaeologist Arthur Pope, the supreme art form in Iranian culture is its architecture, which has been highly regarded throughout both the pre-Islamic and post-Islamic periods.

How can the traditional architecture of the Iranian lands be categorized?

The traditional architecture of the Iranian lands can be categorized into six main styles: Zoroastrian, Parthian, Khorasani, Razi, Azari, and Isfahani.

What are some examples of architecture from the Achaemenid period?

Examples from the Achaemenid period include the construction of cities such as Persepolis, Susa, and Ekbatana, as well as Zoroastrian temples and the mausoleum of Cyrus the Great.

What structures represent the Parthian architectural style?

The Parthian architectural style includes structures from the Seleucid and Sasanid eras, such as the Anahita Temple in Kangavar and fortifications like Darband (Durban).

What are the characteristics of Khorasani-style Islamic architecture?

Khorasani-style Islamic architecture, prevalent from the 7th to the 10th century CE, is exemplified by buildings like the Jameh Mosque of Nain and the Jameh Mosque of Isfahan.

What were some key periods in the development of Razi-style architecture?

Razi-style architecture, spanning the 11th century to the Mongol invasion, includes the Ziyarid period (e.g., Gonbad-e Qabus) and the Seljuk period (e.g., the Karakhanid towers).

What defines the Isfahani style of architecture?

The Isfahani style, beginning in the Safavid period (16th century), features structures like Chehel Sotoun, Ali Qapu, and mosques such as the Shah Mosque and Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque in Naqsh-e Jahan Square.

What materials were commonly used in traditional Iranian architecture?

Traditional Iranian architecture made extensive use of heavy clay, which was molded and compressed to create solid structures. This material was abundant in many parts of the Iranian plateau.

How does geometry play a role in Iranian architecture?

Iranian architecture heavily incorporates symbolic geometry, often featuring symmetrical layouts with rectangular courtyards and halls, as well as pure geometric forms like circles and squares.

What is a defining feature of Persian domes, and how do they differ from domes in other cultures?

A defining feature of Persian domes is their colorful tiled exteriors, often in shades of turquoise. This distinguishes them from domes in Christian, Ottoman, and Mughal architecture, which typically did not feature such vivid exterior colors.