Identifying the pattern governing the Physical structure – Space of Zurkhanehs based on the fundamental organs

Subject Areas : Sports Science and Healthy

Azita Belali Oskoyi ^{1 *} , Zahra Asgarpour ²

1 - Department of Architecture, Faculty of Architecture and Urbanism, Tabriz Islamic Art University, Tabriz, Iran
2 - Department of Architecture, Faculty of Architecture and Urbanism, Tabriz Islamic Art University, Tabriz, Iran.

Received: 2024-05-08 Accepted : 2024-11-26 Published : 2025-10-17

Keywords: Zurkhaneh, Zurkhaneh architecture, fundamental organs, spatial and physical structure.,

Abstract :

The Zurkhaneh has always been more than a site of physical exercise. Historically, it served as a sacred space where athletic practice was intertwined with moral education, religious symbolism, and acts of charity. As such, it has played an essential role in the cultural and urban fabric of Iranian society. The purpose of this study is to identify and analyze the structural and spatial patterns of Zurkhaneh architecture and to determine how these patterns have persisted or changed over time. By focusing on its essential components, the research seeks to clarify the symbolic and functional logic that underpins this unique architectural form. Although the cultural and ritual significance of the Zurkhaneh has been studied, its architectural identity remains underexplored. What distinguishes the Zurkhaneh from other urban or sporting structures is its fusion of practical design with symbolic meaning. This raises the central question: What spatial and structural patterns characterize Zurkhaneh architecture across both Iranian and non-Iranian contexts? Answering this question not only contributes to architectural scholarship but also provides insight into how moral and spiritual values are embedded in civic buildings.

The study employs a descriptive-analytical method. Secondary sources, including books and scholarly articles, were reviewed to establish the theoretical framework. The empirical part focused on twelve selected Zurkhaneh buildings, categorized into three groups: traditional Iranian examples, contemporary Iranian examples, and contemporary non-Iranian examples. Case studies were drawn from Tehran, Yazd, Qazvin, Aran and Bidgol, Kashan, Khorramabad, and Kabul. This comparative approach made it possible to identify commonalities and differences across time and geography. The analysis concentrated on four essential architectural components: the entrance, the dome, the pit (goud), and the platform (sardam). The results show that Zurkhaneh architecture has been consistently shaped by the ethical and chivalric values of Pahlavani. These values influenced both the rituals performed inside and the physical design of the space. Despite geographical and temporal variation, a stable architectural model emerges:

Entrance: Designed to require humility, often lower than street level so that entrants bow slightly, symbolizing modesty.

Dome: Serving both acoustic and symbolic purposes, it represents cosmic unity and provides a sacred canopy over the participants.

Pit (Goud): The sunken training arena embodies humility and discipline, acting as the spatial and symbolic heart of the Zurkhaneh.

Platform (Sardam): The raised platform for recitation and musical accompaniment symbolizes guidance and moral instruction.

Over centuries, these four elements have remained the defining constants of the Zurkhaneh. Changes have been mostly superficial: the methods of dome construction, the scale of the entrance, or the decorative style. Yet the underlying symbolism and function have remained intact. This demonstrates that the Zurkhaneh is not merely a sports facility but a cultural archetype that encodes ethical and spiritual teachings into its very structure. The persistence of these spatial elements highlights the resilience of cultural identity in architecture. Unlike modern gyms, which evolve rapidly in response to technology or lifestyle trends, the Zurkhaneh maintains continuity because its design is rooted in ritual and morality. The architecture is not neutral; it communicates humility, discipline, and cosmic order.The comparison between Iranian and non-Iranian examples further emphasizes this point. While external forms or details may differ due to local conditions, the essential internal pattern remains recognizable. This shows that the Zurkhaneh is adaptable yet deeply tied to its symbolic foundations. It also illustrates how architecture can transmit cultural values across borders while preserving a distinct identity.This study concludes that the Zurkhaneh represents an enduring model of sacred civic architecture. Its essential elements—entrance, dome, pit, and platform—are not only practical features but also carriers of symbolic meaning. Over time, they have undergone only minor modifications, preserving both their functional and symbolic significance. The architectural constancy of the Zurkhaneh demonstrates how deeply moral and spiritual values are woven into its design. It stands as a living example of how architecture can embody cultural continuity while allowing for localized adaptation. By analyzing Zurkhaneh architecture through its structural-spatial patterns, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of Iranian heritage and provides a framework for studying the relationship between space, symbolism, and civic identity in other contexts.

  

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