Surely, as an Iranian, you also have the experience of visiting the historical monuments of our country, Iran. You know what glory and honor is formed in the heart of a person when visiting the buildings of Persian architecture. In the vast land of Iran, from ancient times to today, works of Iranian architecture can be seen, which show the glory and greatness of this art throughout history. Iranian architecture, derived from the culture and beliefs of the people of this land, with its unique characteristics, has always been admired and admired by the world. Of course, in a part of history, with the arrival of Islam in Iran, Iranian architecture underwent huge and extensive changes. As an Iranian, it is better to know a little more about Iranian architecture. Today, in this article, we intend to introduce you to Iranian architecture and its history. So accompany us.
What is Iranian architecture?
In every part of history, we see that every land had its own architectural style. Of course, it is the same today. Especially in Asian countries, this authenticity has been preserved. But what is Iranian architecture? Iranian architecture is an art that was formed based on the cultural, religious and social principles and values of the Iranian people. This art uses elements and materials such as clay, brick, stone, wood and plaster and has features such as precise proportions, visual beauty, variety and balance. Throughout history, Iran has always been able to see architects with good taste and artistry. This incident has caused us to witness several amazing buildings. Of course, the magnificence used in Iranian buildings is not without influence in this regard. But Iranian architecture has its own history. We will examine it further.
History of Iranian architecture
Remains such as stone buildings and rock cemeteries have been left, which show the existence of advanced civilizations in Iran. With the arrival of the Aryans in Iran, the architecture of the land underwent fundamental changes. During the Medes, the first adobe buildings were built. During the Achaemenid period, Iranian architecture reached its peak of prosperity. In this period, huge and magnificent buildings such as Persepolis, Pasargad and Susa were built. During the Parthian period, Iranian architecture was influenced by Greek and Roman arts. In the Sassanid era, Iranian architecture returned to its glory once again. During this period, religious buildings and luxurious palaces such as Takht Suleiman, Taq Bostan and Naqsh Rostam were built. After the arrival of Islam in Iran, Iranian architecture experienced new developments with the influence of Islamic art. During the Islamic era, many mosques, schools, caravanserais and bridges were built in Iran.
The top three styles of Iranian architecture
Many styles have emerged and disappeared in Iranian architecture. But some of these styles were able to survive and remain until today. Styles such as Azari, Isfahani, Ilkhani, etc. Architectural experts, in fact, it is better to say professors and standard-bearers of architectural art, consider three styles of Iranian architecture superior to others. We said that Iranian architecture has a special variety and balance. Among the different styles of Iranian architecture, the following three styles are more important:
Achaemenid style
First, let’s talk about the most original and popular style in Iranian architecture. Achaemenid style can be considered the signature of Iranian architecture. The most famous Iranian building, Takht Jamshid, was built using the principles of this style. This style covers from the Achaemenid era to the Parthian era. The characteristics of this style include: the use of materials such as clay, brick and stone, precise proportions, the presence of long columns and decorative capitals. If you look at Persepolis, you will see the same features.
Sassanid style
After the end of the Achaemenid rule over Iran and the rise of the Sassanid dynasty, many things changed in the Iranian plateau. One of these things that underwent change was the style of Iranian architecture. The Sasanian style of architecture covers from the beginning of the Sasanian rule to the time of the arrival of Islam in Iran. The characteristics of this style are: the use of materials such as brick, stone and plaster, precise proportions, the presence of domes and long porches, many decorations.
Islamic style
But let’s talk about the style that created a huge revolution in Iranian architecture. After the Arabs and Islam came to Iran, the lifestyle of Iranians became close to Arabs. One of the things that was influenced by the style of architecture. The style of Islamic architecture has continued since the Islamic era. The characteristics of this style include: the use of materials such as brick, stone and plaster, precise proportions, the existence of domes and long porches, many decorations with religious themes. It is worth mentioning that many sub-styles such as Isfahani style used the principles of Islamic style. A clear example of that is Naqsh Jahan of Isfahan.
Similarities between Iranian architecture and classical architecture
These two styles, despite the differences in appearance, also have basic similarities. One of the important similarities between these two styles is paying attention to exact proportions in the design of buildings. In both styles, the proportions between different building components are such that visual beauty and balance are created. Another similarity is the use of similar elements and materials. In both styles, materials such as stone, brick and plaster are used. Also, in both styles, many decorations are used. There are also important differences. One of them is the type of decorations. In Iranian architecture, decorations are mostly religious and spiritual. While in the classic style, they are more beautiful. In general, Iranian architecture and classical style are among the most important and influential styles in the history of architecture. These two styles, despite the differences in appearance, have some basic similarities with each other.
The best monuments of Iranian history
Persepolis
This building is one of the most important historical works of Iran that was built during the Achaemenid period. Persepolis was the residence of the Achaemenid kings and has a special grandeur. Of course, there are theories according to which Persepolis was not completely built and what we see is a half-finished Achaemenid building.
Taq-e Bostan
This building was built in the Sassanid era and is considered one of the most important historical works of Iran. Taq Bostan was the place of important celebrations and ceremonies of the Sassanids. Taq Bostan is located in the west of Iran and in Kurdistan. Every year many people travel to Kurdistan to visit this magnificent place.
Jame Mosque of Isfahan
This mosque is one of the most important historical monuments of Iran that was built in the Islamic era. Isfahan Jame Mosque is one of the largest and most beautiful mosques in the Islamic world. The construction of this mosque dates back to the Safavid period. In the construction of this beautiful mosque, a combination of Islamic and Esfahani style has been used.
Takht Suleiman
Takht Suleiman can be introduced as one of the oldest Iranian buildings, like Takht Jamshid and Taq Bostan. This building was built in the Sassanid era and is considered one of the most important historical works of Iran. Takht Suleiman was the place of worship of Zoroastrians.
Khajo bridge
This bridge was built during the Safavid period and is considered one of the most important historical works of Iran. Khajo Bridge is one of the most beautiful bridges you can see. With these interpretations, it can be said that the Safavid era, along with the Achaemenid era, was one of the most magnificent periods of the Iranian government in the expansion of huge buildings.
Thank you for joining us in this article. As you have seen, in this article we got acquainted with Iranian architecture and we examined its history together. We also introduced you to some of the best historical monuments in Iran. We hope that the content presented in this article was useful for you. Note that it is very important to preserve the traditional and historical values of Iranian architecture in the construction of modern buildings. We at Amood Group are ready to start cooperation with you dear ones by using decoration design experts. You can contact us for advice.
