Study and Typology of the Main Architectural Elements of Suburban Caravanserais in Central Iran Based on the Morphology of the Elements

Subject Areas : Prehistoric Archaeology

Tooraj Khosravi javid ¹ , Shahriar Nasekhian ²

1 - Doctoral Researcher in Architectural Conservation and Rehabilitation of Historic Buildings and Urban Fabrics, Department of Architectural Conservation, Faculty of Conservation and Restoration, University of Art, Isfahan, Iran.
2 - Associate Professor, Architectural and Urban Conservation Faculty, Art University of Isfahan, Iran.

Received: 2025-07-28 Accepted : 2025-09-22 Published : 2025-12-07

Keywords: Architectural elements of caravanserais, typology of architectural elements, morphology of elements, suburban caravanserais in central Iran,

Abstract :

The architecture of caravanserais, like other traditional Iranian architecture, has changed over time, with the evolution of architecture, the evolution of architectural and construction knowledge, and the updating of common methods and techniques. The ability and skill of architects and the needs of caravanserais were the main factors of change in the architecture of Iranian caravanserais. The aim of this research is to typify and introduce the architectural patterns of the main elements of caravanserais. The main question of this article is how does the recognition and classification of the architectural elements and components of caravanserais lead to the identification of architectural patterns and types? The research method of this research is developmental and applied, and the method of obtaining information is inductive and with an interpretative, historical, and comparative approach. The method of collecting information is also based on library studies and field observations. In this research, the main architectural elements such as the entrance, vestibule, porch, courtyard, room, camel shed, and tower have been evaluated and typified. The typology of architectural elements in this research is based on the morphology of architectural elements. In the present study, the morphological elements of the components such as geometry and proportions, overall shape and form, and spatial composition in the architectural plan have been studied and evaluated.

 

1. Introduction

The architectural formation of caravanserais in Iran has been shaped by a complex interplay of physical and socio-cultural factors. Social, climatic, cultural, religious, structural, and economic influences have each played a decisive role in the evolution of caravanserai architectural patterns, resulting in a remarkable diversity of layouts and spatial compositions (Kiani & Kleiss, 1994). Caravanserai architecture developed gradually over centuries, adapting to emerging functional demands, technological advancements, and socio-economic conditions. Early caravanserais often lacked features such as camel stables or water reservoirs; however, as transportation, trade, and animal husbandry needs evolved, these elements became integral components of the architectural ensemble. Consequently, a variety of geometrical configurations, spatial hierarchies, and structural solutions emerged over time, reflecting the combined influence of environmental constraints, patronage, and architectural creativity (Sirou, 1978).

From the onset of the Islamic period until the fourth century AH, the basic caravanserai layout largely adhered to pre-Islamic prototypes, with minor modifications. It was during the Seljuk period that caravanserai architecture entered a phase of substantial transformation, culminating in its peak development during the Safavid era (Kavian & Gholami, 2016). The evolved designs typically featured prominent single or double-story entrances, four- or eight-sided vestibules (hashtis), elongated corridors connecting the central courtyard and the iwan, and a hierarchical arrangement of functional spaces. Central courtyards were predominantly square, rectangular, polygonal, or circular, surrounded by guest rooms and camel stables, often accessible from the courtyard (Kiani & Kleiss, 1994). External façades commonly incorporated watchtowers, fortified walls, and decorative iwans (Aivazian, 1996). Post-Safavid transformations were largely limited to minor architectural details, leaving the overall spatial composition intact (Mashbaki Esfahani, 2018).

This study represents the first systematic typological analysis of the primary architectural elements of caravanserais—namely the entrance, hashti, iwan, central courtyard, guest rooms, camel stables, and watchtowers—based on formal morphology. Criteria such as geometric proportions, spatial composition, hierarchy of access, and functional relationships were used to assess the evolution of these elements. The research addresses the question: “How can a systematic typology of caravanserai elements inform the understanding of architectural patterns and variants across historical periods?”

The study focuses on caravanserais located in the hot and arid desert regions of central Iran, spanning the Sassanian, Seljuk, Ilkhanid, Timurid, Safavid, and Qajar periods. Sample selection was based on architectural features, geographical location, and historical period, covering caravanserais in the provinces of Isfahan, Tehran, Yazd, Qom, and Markazi (Fig. 1; Table 1). The research methodology includes archival analysis, field surveys, and architectural documentation, providing a comprehensive framework to identify, classify, and interpret the architectural elements of these historic structures.

 

2. Methodology

This study adopts a qualitative, descriptive-analytical approach with applied orientation, employing historical, comparative, and interpretive methods. Data collection relied on both library-based research and detailed field surveys. The analytical process was inductive, moving from individual observations to broader typological patterns. The population of study included all extant and partially ruined caravanserais of central Iran, with 27 exemplary structures selected purposively to represent diverse forms, historical periods, and climatic contexts (Table 1).

Field documentation involved the measurement of spatial dimensions using laser meters, high-resolution photography, and AutoCAD-based plan drawing for precise geometric analysis. Typological classification was based on formal-morphological criteria, including the shape, proportion, and spatial arrangement of architectural elements. The research further analyzed patterns of access, hierarchy of spaces, and functional integration within the ensemble. Limitations, such as incomplete documentation of severely damaged structures, were mitigated through comparative analysis of similar caravanserais, historical maps, and archival records. The combined approach ensures that typological patterns are derived from robust empirical data while contextualized within historical and environmental conditions.

 

3. Discussion

3.1 Core Architectural Elements

The primary architectural elements of caravanserais serve as the defining components of their physical and functional identity. These elements include the entrance (sar-dar), vestibule (hashti), iwan, central courtyard, guest rooms, camel stables, and watchtowers. Each element fulfills distinct functional requirements while maintaining integration within the overall spatial system. Linear arrangements in rural caravanserais established clear hierarchical sequences of access, facilitating movement and organization.

Entrance (Sar-dar): Entrances were categorized into three types: protruding, flush with the façade, or recessed. Of the 27 sampled caravanserais, 18 exhibited protruding entrances, 7 flush entrances, and 2 recessed forms. Entrances often conveyed status and provided the first impression of the structure’s spatial hierarchy (Table 3).

Hashti and Vestibular Passageways: Hashtis were typically octagonal or rectangular and functioned as transitional spaces mediating between the exterior and the inner courtyard. Rectangular hashtis sometimes combined the role of vestibule and corridor, whereas octagonal hashtis generally maintained distinct passageways connecting the iwan and courtyard (Table 4).

Iwan: Caravanserais were designed as single, double, or four-iwan structures, with four-iwan layouts predominating. Single-section iwans, prevalent in Sassanian and Seljuk structures, were rectangular with a width-to-length ratio of approximately 1:2.5. Ilkhanid to Qajar caravanserais often incorporated two-section iwans, with secondary sections functioning as more private spaces (Table 5).

Central Courtyard: The courtyard, the nucleus of caravanserai activity, was geometrically diverse: square, rectangular, circular, octagonal, or dodecagonal, and sometimes consisted of dual courtyard configurations. Courtyards facilitated light, ventilation, and access to adjacent spaces, including guest rooms and camel stables (Table 6).

Guest Rooms: The Spatial configuration of rooms was closely linked to courtyard geometry. Rooms were typically square, rectangular, elongated rectangular, or polygonal, with width-to-length ratios reflecting historical period and functional requirements. Rooms were arranged around the courtyard, often aligned with the iwan façade, and heights generally matched or slightly undercut room lengths (Table 7). Functional categorization included guest accommodations, guard quarters, and caravan attendants’ quarters.

Camel Stables (Shtrakhan): Earlier caravanserais lacked dedicated stables, using the courtyard for livestock. From the Ilkhanid period onward, stables were systematically integrated along the outer periphery, with designs ranging from linear, four-sectioned, columned halls, semi-open, or cornered configurations. Stable design reflected considerations for animal management, loading/unloading, and protection from climatic extremes (Table 8).

Watchtowers and Fortifications: Towers provided defensive oversight, with cylindrical solid forms dominating Seljuk, Ilkhanid, and Timurid caravanserais, while Safavid and Qajar examples exhibited cylindrical or polygonal hollow towers. High walls and fortified entrances complemented towers to secure travelers’ safety (Table 9).

 

3.2. Pattern Analysis and Typological Insights

Comparative analysis across the 27 sampled caravanserais reveals that architectural patterns were strongly influenced by climatic conditions, prevailing stylistic norms, socio-cultural expectations, geographical positioning, historical period, functional requirements, and architects’ innovation. Entry forms, courtyard geometries, iwan configurations, and stabling solutions evolved gradually, exhibiting both continuity and adaptation.

The inductive classification of architectural elements highlights recurring typologies: three entrance forms, two hashti types, three iwan configurations, six courtyard geometries, four room geometries, eight stable types, and diverse tower configurations. These findings corroborate the notion that while caravanserais share a common structural vocabulary, detailed formal execution varies considerably based on functional, environmental, and aesthetic determinants. The spatial hierarchy and integration of elements underscore the deliberate planning strategies adopted by architects to balance defense, utility, and hospitality functions.

The study demonstrates that morphological analysis, coupled with comparative field documentation, provides a reliable method for identifying typological patterns and regional variations. It also emphasizes the role of incremental architectural adaptation in response to functional demands, environmental pressures, and patronage expectations. Historical continuity and gradual modification are evident, with Safavid structures representing the apex of integrated functional and formal sophistication.

 

4. Conclusion

This research provides a comprehensive typological assessment of Iranian caravanserais, revealing the complexity and adaptability of their architectural elements. Core elements—including the entrance, hashti, iwan, central courtyard, rooms, camel stables, and watchtowers—were systematically analyzed and classified, illustrating distinct patterns and regional variations. The study confirms that caravanserai architecture evolved incrementally over centuries, shaped by environmental, socio-cultural, functional, and economic factors, as well as the ingenuity of architects.

Typological classification of architectural elements facilitates understanding of functional hierarchies, spatial organization, and the relationship between form and use. The results highlight the persistence of traditional patterns alongside adaptive modifications in response to emerging needs, demonstrating a delicate balance between continuity and innovation. Furthermore, the study emphasizes the utility of formal-morphological analysis in reconstructing architectural history, identifying stylistic trends, and guiding conservation and adaptive reuse efforts.

In conclusion, the findings underscore that Iranian caravanserais are not merely functional structures but dynamic cultural artifacts, reflecting historical, social, and environmental contexts. Understanding the evolution and typology of these architectural elements provides valuable insights for heritage preservation, architectural history, and contemporary design strategies that respect historical typologies while accommodating modern functionality. This research establishes a methodological framework for future studies on historical caravanserais and their role in the cultural and architectural landscape of Iran.

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