Contextual Analysis of the Traditional Market of Ardabil City Based on Umberto Eco's Theory

Subject Areas :

Elham khanghahi bala ¹ , حسن ابراهیمی اصل ² , Masoud Haghlesan ³ , Saeedeh Feyzi ⁴

1 - Ph.D. Candidate, Department of Architecture, Jolfa International Branch, Islamic Azad University, Jolfa, Iran.
2 -
3 - Department of Architecture and Urban Planning, Ilk.C., Islamic Azad University, Ilkhchi, Iran.
4 - دانشیار، گروه معماری، دانشکده هنر و معماری، واحد آذرشهر، دانشگاه آزاد اسلامی، ایران

Received: 2025-07-04 Accepted : 2025-09-02 Published : 2025-10-13

Keywords: contextualism, semiotics, Umberto Eco, traditional market, Ardabil ,

Abstract :

Contextualism in architecture emphasizes preserving cultural identity and the traces of the past while respecting the distinctiveness of each context. Markets, as essential urban spaces, have historically served as the backbone of cities, responding to users’ needs through their physical, semantic, and functional dimensions. This study aims to identify the physical, semantic, and functional components of contextualism in the traditional market of Ardabil using Umberto Eco’s semiotic framework. The research employs a qualitative, descriptive–analytical approach. Initially, the principles of contextualism were conceptualized through literature review and theoretical synthesis. Subsequently, the traditional market of Ardabil was analyzed through observation and comparative analysis. Results indicate that contextualism in Ardabil’s market is expressed through spatial and visual criteria, including position, volume, height, setback, scale, orientation, rhythm, texture, and color. Three core components—intermediate space, architectural body, and the interaction of mass and space—further define its contextual identity.

 

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