Persian Architecture | Rise And Shine of Arts

Iranian architecture is one of the world's most beautiful and complex styles. It has developed over centuries and is closely linked to Iran's history, culture, and climate. This style of architecture includes unique features that show the precision and artistry of Iranian architects.

Persian architecture is well-known worldwide because of its unique aspects. Buildings founded by human hands in Persian architecture reflect their attitudes towards the universe, showcasing their society's intellectual prowess and cultural-social structure. Architecture maintains a profound connection with the surrounding environment and the people within that society.
Traditional Persian architecture symbolizes the eternal world. Iranian architecture has been displayed in various forms in different buildings. It has a notable place in its beliefs, customs, and rituals, clearly expressed in geographical and climatic conditions. It is the result of the efforts of architecture artists who, relying on their faith, gave their lives and spared no effort in this way. This blog post will discuss Iranian architecture's history, characteristics, and main principles.

History of Iranian Architecture 

In the past, Iran's traditional art and architecture had the most creative and iconic masterpieces. It is because the buildings were built without advanced and modern tools. Such houses are elegant and attractive and inspire designers and architects today.
The time-honored architecture that has been used in Iran in the past is an indicator of the culture of the ruling society at that time. It also has roots in history and all the characteristics of that region's society. Specialists divided the history of Iranian architecture into two categories: The pre-Islamic and Islamic periods.

Pre-Islamic Period Iranian Architecture History

Iranian architecture before Islam had unique features influenced by different cultures during the Medes, Achaemenids, Parthians, and Sassanid periods. During these times, the architecture included huge buildings like palaces, temples, and fire temples.

Achaemenid Period (550-330 BC)

Achaemenid architecture is best seen in Persepolis and Susa, showing grandeur and order. They used tall columns, large halls, and symbolic carvings. As a great example, Persepolis (Takht-e Jamshid), located in Shiraz, Iran, was the ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire, built around 550–330 BC. The ruins of Persepolis still stand as a testament to ancient Persian architecture, with impressive columns, grand staircases, and intricate carvings. Despite being destroyed by Alexander the Great, its remains convey its time's artistic and structural brilliance.

Parthian Era (247 BC - 224 AD)

Parthian architecture mixed Greek and local Iranian styles, starting with big porches and domes. The Temple of Anahita in Kangavar, Iran, built around the 2nd century AD, combines Greek and Persian architectural elements, reflecting the Parthian Empire's diverse cultural influences. Despite being in ruins, the temple remains significant for understanding Parthian architectural and cultural heritage.

Sassanid Period (224-651 AD)

The Sassanids created their style with huge porches, giant domes, and stone fire temples. The most significant example is Taq Kasra, the Ctesiphon Arch, an impressive example of Sasanian architecture from the 3rd century in present-day Iraq. It features the world's largest single-span brick arch. It was initially part of a grand palace complex, serving as a ceremonial entrance. Despite conflicts and natural wear, it remains one of the few standing relics of the once-great capital of Ctesiphon.

The Sasanian Empire ended when Persia was conquered by Muslims in 654 AD. This war marked a significant change in Iranian history, leading to the Islamization of Iran from the eighth to tenth centuries and the decline of Zoroastrianism.

Islamic Period Persian Architecture History

With the arrival of Islam, Iranian architecture changed, and Islamic elements merged with traditional Iranian styles. New geometric designs and decorations, such as tiles and intricate patterns, became popular.

Seljuk Era (1050–1300 AD)

During the time of the Seljuk rulers, Iranian architecture underwent a significant change with the construction of large mosques and mausoleums. One famous example is the Dome of Soltaniyeh, built-in Zanjan between 1302 and 1312. It's part of a big mausoleum complex for the Ilkhanid ruler Öljaitü and is one of the most enormous brick domes in the world. The detailed brickwork and use of turquoise and blue tiles set a new standard for Islamic architecture, influencing later structures in Iran and beyond. The Jameh Mosque of Isfahan, dating back to the 11th century, is famous for its four-iwan layout, each representing a distinct architectural style.

Cyrus Crafts; Luxury & Unique Products

Ilkhanid period (1256–1335 AD)

The Ilkhanid period (1256–1335) saw the emergence of a unique architectural blend of Mongol and Persian styles, exemplified by the Gonbad-e Qabus. Built-in 1006 in Golestan Province, this 72-meter-tall tomb tower is one of the world's tallest brick towers. Its cylindrical shape, conical roof, and inscriptions reflect local and imported influences, inspiring the region's subsequent tomb towers and mausoleums.

Timurid Era (1370–1507)

The Goharshad Mosque in Mashhad, built in 1418, is a prime example of sophisticated Iranian architecture during the Timurid era (1370–1507). Commissioned by Goharshad Begum, the wife of Timurid ruler Shah Rukh, the mosque is known for its large size, elegant proportions, and elaborate decoration, including intricate glazed tiles and exquisite calligraphy, representing the peak of Timurid artistry.

Safavid Period (1501-1736 AD)

The Safavid period is known for its remarkable Iranian Islamic architecture, particularly in Isfahan. The Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, built for the royal family, features exquisite tile work and a color-changing dome. The Ali Qapu Palace, a six-story residence for Safavid kings, includes a Music Hall with acoustically designed stucco decorations. Chehel Sotoun, a pavilion in Isfahan, showcases large murals depicting historical events and Persian miniatures, highlighting the artistic excellence of the Safavid era.

Qajar Period (1789-1925 AD)

Qajar architecture blended traditional Persian and Western styles, featuring vibrant colors and intricate designs. The Golestan Palace in Tehran is a prime example of combining conventional Persian elements with European influences. Built-in the 19th century, the palace complex includes gardens, royal buildings, and halls adorned with mirrored ceilings and exquisite tile work. The Nasir al-Mulk Mosque, also known as the Pink Mosque (Persian pink is one of the eight beautiful Persian colors), was constructed in Shiraz during the Qajar Dynasty. Its colorful stained glass windows create a mesmerizing play of colors on the floor when sunlight filters through, making it a distinctive and iconic landmark among Iran's historical buildings.

Modern Days (1925 AD-Now)

Nowadays, information technology brings every style and innovative method of all countries to other regions. So, in modern-day Iran, you can see various architectural styles from every land and era. Still, the fantastic point about Iran's architecture today is that some skilled architects bring old manners to modern terms and combine them intelligently. For example, Mohammad Khavarian, the RIBA International Awards 2024 winner, merges Persian architectural methods with contemporary technologies. 
The most prominent examples of contemporary architecture in Iran are the Azadi Tower (previously known as the Shahyad Tower), designed by architect Hossein Amanat; the Tehran Museum of Contemporary Art, created by Kamran Diba in 1977; the Tabiat Bridge, designed by Leila Araghian and completed in 2014; the House of 40 Knots, planned by Alireza Taghaboni and completed in 2018; Milad Tower, and so on.

Characteristics and Features of Iranian Architecture

Iranian architecture is known for its unique blend of beauty, practicality, and symbolism. Its distinct features include geometric patterns, natural elements, and spatial harmony. These elements not only serve aesthetic purposes but also reflect deeper philosophical and spiritual values, making Iranian architecture a testament to the creativity of its people throughout history.

Symmetry & Order: Symmetry is fundamental in Iranian architecture and is visible in palaces, gardens, and mosques.

Domes & Arches: Domes and arches are critical elements in Iranian buildings, with many shapes and patterns used in different periods.

Porches: Porches are semi-open spaces that connect the inside and outside areas. They are common in Sassanid temples and later in Iranian mosques and caravanserais.

Gardens & Landscape: Iranian gardens (like Fin Garden and Shazdeh Garden) follow special rules, including the "four gardens" pattern, with water channels and local plants.

Local Materials: Iranian architecture uses local materials like brick, plaster, and stone. In desert areas, mud and straw are used, while in mountainous regions, stone is preferred.

Decorations & Inscriptions: Decorations include tiles, carved plaster, and mirrorwork. Tile designs often feature floral, geometric, and calligraphic patterns.

Geometric Paterns: Geometric patterns, including circles, squares, and triangles, are used in the exterior and interior design.

Introversion: One of the undeniable characteristics of Iranian works of architecture, such as houses, mosques, schools, caravanserais, and baths, is their introspective character. This indicator has deep roots in Iranian social and philosophical foundations and principles. Introversion and preservation of privacy in architecture is to reach one's essence and find peace within. In general and based on Eastern thinking, in Islamic lands, the spirit of space is manifested in the interior, and the inner courtyard is the originator of this principle.

Being People-centered: People-centeredness means compliance between building organs and human needs. Architecture in Iran is considered an art related to life. Therefore, the width of the bedroom is the size of a bed, and the window's height is so that it is easily accessible when sitting and standing. On the other hand, the living room, which is remarkable for guests, is built to a size suitable for parties. This quality is seen in famous buildings like Naqsh Jahan Square and Chogha Zanbil and Islamic buildings such as Jameh mosque of Isfahan and Sheikh Lotfollah mosque.

Sufficiency: Iranian architects collect their materials from the nearest places in the city or village; they use the materials around them and choose the closest place to supply building materials. The advantage of self-sufficiency is that all the materials are available when rebuilding the building. Since clay was available everywhere, we can see many buildings made with it in ancient Iran. Before the Islamic Period, that is a sample of self-sufficiency in Iranian architecture.

Yards & their Role in Iranian Architecture

The yard in old houses is the center and heart of the Iranian building. The central courtyard with a porch on each side is regularly seen in Iranian architecture. Of course, there was a possibility that the yard would not be made the center of the house from a geometric point of view. Still, it would be made from the point of view of living and doing daily activities and creating connections between different parts of the house, and other issues would be considered the center of the house. 

Styles of Iranian Architecture

Iranian architectural styles have evolved to reflect the people's cultural values and creativity. There are six main styles: pre-Islamic, Khorasani, Razi, Azari, Esfahani, and Contemporary. These styles developed over centuries, reflecting Iran's changing political, social, and cultural conditions. Unique techniques and materials were used in response to the environment and local needs.

Persian Style: This style belongs to the Achaemenid period and includes buildings like Persepolis, Pasargadae, and Susa. It focuses on tall columns and central halls.

Persian Architecture Styles' Popularity

The Persian architectural style is one of the world's most famous and beautiful architectural styles, and it has a special place compared to the architectural styles in other countries.
The glory of traditional Iranian architecture, which displays the art of authentic Iranian engineers and the elements and structures of Persian design, is due to features such as:

1. Accurate calculations
2. The correct form of structures
3. Compliance with technical and scientific issues in Persian buildings

Elements of traditional architecture in Persia are 3000 years old. However, this style is used when a lasting and beautiful structure is to be designed.
Although this style is not very common anymore, it has always evoked the originality of the past, the beauty of Persia's architecture, and the ability of the designers of that time.
Persian architecture is still taught in the architecture courses of many reputable universities, which shows the people's attention and interest in this style.

Parthian Style: This style, featuring large porches and domes, was popular during the Parthian and Sassanid periods. An example is Taq Kasra.

Khorasani Style: After Islam, this style used simple forms with new Islamic elements. The Jameh Mosque of Nishapur is a good example.

Razi Style: This style used complex dome designs and large porches in the Seljuk era. The Tughrul Tower and the Jameh Mosque of Isfahan are key examples.

Azeri Style: This style developed with colorful tiles and complex patterns during the Ilkhanid and Timurid periods. The Blue Mosque of Tabriz is a famous example. The blue mosque's tiles are painted in different shades of Persian blue.

Isfahani Style: This style peaked during the Safavid period when large arches and beautiful domes were used. Imam Mosque and Ali Qapu Palace are well-known examples.

Regional Architecture in Iran

Iranian architecture always considers the local climate and environment:

Desert Architecture: In desert areas like Yazd, wind catchers, underground rooms, and central courtyards are used to cool the buildings.

Cold Region Architecture: In cold regions like Azerbaijan, houses have thick walls, low roofs, and small rooms to keep warmth inside.

Humid Region Architecture: In northern Iran, houses have sloping roofs and high porches to resist rain and humidity.

Iranian Architecture and the Nature

One of traditional Iranian architecture's most exciting and interesting features is its focus on soil, wind, and sun elements.
Old Iranian architecture is evident in curved and dome-shaped windows with tiny colored glass, rooms facing direct and warm sunlight, and corridors with air movement. These signs can be seen in most of Iran's historical mosques.

Usually, a large yard with a blue pond and unique small gardens was in the center of the house, giving the atmosphere a unique sense of freshness, like the buildings in the Golestan Palace.
In addition, the entrance doors of these houses were usually made of wood, which indicated the house's individuality with separate male and female knockers.
In this type of architecture, space was usually considered a room for guests, known as Shahneshin; this environment usually had unique and patterned decorations, mirrorwork, notable paintings, and the use of traditional and beautiful Iranian tiles. 
The kitchen's suitable and beautiful atmosphere also showed the hospitality of the family and the entire Iranian people.

Iranian Architects and their International Achievements

In recent years, Iranian architects have drawn global attention with their impressive works and have won numerous awards in prestigious international competitions. Below are some of the most prominent Iranian architects and their achievements:

Kamran Diba

Kamran Diba is one of the pioneers of modern architecture in Iran during the 1960s and 1970s. His works, such as Laleh Park, the Tehran Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Shushtar New Town, still symbolize modernism in Iran. The Tehran Museum of Contemporary Art has been recognized as one of the top modern buildings in the Middle East by various international publications.

Houshang Seyhoun

Houshang Seyhoun was a prominent Iranian architect of the 20th century. He was known for designing the tombs of famous Iranian figures like Omar Khayyam, Nader Shah Afshar, and Kamal-ol-Molk. He was a crucial figure in the modern architectural movement in Iran. His works have been praised in several European and US exhibitions and featured in reputable architectural journals.

Leila Araghian

Leila Araghian is a young and notable Iranian architect who gained global recognition for designing the "Tabiat Bridge" in Tehran. The bridge is seen as a cultural and social symbol of the city. Her received awards are:

• Aga Khan Award for Architecture (2016)
• Architizer A+ Award in New York
• Middle East Architect Award (2015) for public structures

Farhad Ahmadi

Farhad Ahmadi is a contemporary Iranian architect known for his unique style and bold designs. His projects include the Shiraz National Library and the Kish International Conference Center. He has received the Aga Khan Award for Architecture for the Shiraz National Library and Several other international awards, including the Middle East Architecture Award.

Reza Daneshmir and Catherine Spiridonoff

This Iranian duo is known for designing modern buildings that blend traditional and contemporary elements. Some of their famous works include the Bamland Shopping Center and the Mellat Cineplex in Tehran. In 2008, they acquired the WAF (World Architecture Festival) Award for the Mellat Cineplex and various Middle East architecture competition awards.

Alireza Taghaboni

Alireza Taghaboni is a new-generation Iranian architect known for his innovative and daring approach to designing residential, office, and public buildings. In recent years, he has won multiple international awards. Taghaboni has obtained:

• Mies van der Rohe Award (European Union Prize for Contemporary Architecture) in 2014
• Architectural Review Emerging Architecture Award
• World Architecture Community Award

Hamed Soltanianpour

This young Iranian architect is recognized for his projects, such as "Mashir House" and the "Shamsabad Building," which focus on sustainable design and blend modern and traditional elements. In 2019, he was a Pritzker Prize Nominee and received prizes from US and European architectural institutes.

Hossein Amanat

Hossein Amanat is a notable contemporary Iranian architect known globally for designing the "Azadi Tower" (previously Shahyad Tower) in Tehran. The tower is seen as a symbol of modern and historical Iranian architecture. He is honored with:

• Aga Khan Award for Architecture for designing the Azadi Tower
• Featured in the "World's Influential Architects" list by various international publications

Prestigious Global Architecture Awards

Iranian architects have not only built beautiful buildings in Iran but have also gained global recognition. They have won many top architecture awards for their unique and creative designs. These awards show how Iranian architecture combines tradition with modern ideas and holds a special place in the global architectural community. Let's explore some of the major international awards and the achievements of Iranian architects in these competitions.

Aga Khan Award for Architecture

This award, held every three years, is given for architecture projects in Muslim communities. Aagha Khan Architecture Awards is one of the most prestigious architecture awards in the world. Several Iranian architects have received this award, including Farhad Ahmadi for the Shiraz National Library and Leila Araghian for the Tabiat Bridge.

Pritzker Architecture Prize

Known as the "Nobel Prize of Architecture," no Iranian architect has yet won this prize. Still, some works by Iranian architects like Alireza Taghaboni and Hossein Amanat have caught the jury's attention.

RIBA International Awards

The RIBA International Awards are prestigious prizes awarded by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) to recognize the best new buildings worldwide. These awards focus on innovative design, sustainability, and social impact in architecture. Winning a RIBA award is a great honor for any architect, as it showcases their work globally and sets a high standard for future architectural projects. In November 2024, Mohammad Khavarian, during his time as the first Iranian to win this prize, won the RIBA 2024 for the building of the Jahad Square metro station in Tehran.

Mies van der Rohe Award

This European Union prize is awarded every two years to the best contemporary architectural works in Europe. Alireza Taghaboni won this award in 2014.

Architizer A+ Awards

This prestigious annual award is given to top architectural projects worldwide. Leila Araghian's Tabiat Bridge won the top spot in this competition.

Middle East Architect Awards

This award is given to the best architectural projects in the Middle East. Iranian architects Reza Daneshmir and Alireza Taghaboni have received it.

Influence of Iranian Architecture Worldwide

Iranian architecture has dramatically influenced the architecture of neighboring countries like India, Central Asia, and the Ottoman Empire. It can be seen in famous buildings like the Taj Mahal in India and the Sultan Ahmed Mosque in Turkey. Overall, Iranian architecture is not just a building style but also a reflection of Iran's rich culture, art, and identity.

CyrusCrafts' Overview of Persian Architecture

While preserving Iranian architects' cultural and artistic identity of Iranian architects, Iranian architects have created unique works recognized in Iran and internationally. Continued success in this field can help maintain Iranian architecture's status in the global community.
One of the most exciting aspects of traditional Iranian architecture is the old architects' excessive focus and attention to detail. By examining all the fine points observed in conventional architecture, sociologists or archaeologists can decode some cultures or problems existing at that time and reveal the truths. They can observe the culture and relationships of the past. What is your opinion about Persian architecture? Please tell us your thoughts and ask us your questions by leaving comments.
CyrusCrafts is a drop-shipping company located in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, but rooted in beautiful Iran. Here, we present decoration objects, foods, and fashion items in six categories: Persian rugs, Interior design elements, Art galleries, Handicrafts, Clothing and accessories, and Tasty organic food products. To order any item and receive it delivered to your address in any spot in the world, you only need to fill out the order form or text us on WhatsApp by clicking the icon.