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1- Department of Architecture, University of Bonab, Bonab, Iran , negabi.m@gmail.com
2- Department of Architecture, University of Bonab, Bonab, Iran
Abstract:   (41 Views)
The history of wooden columned mosques dates back to the early Islamic period. During the Seljuk Empire, which ruled over Greater Iran, Central Asia, the Caucasus, and Anatolia for more than 157 years, a distinctive form of wooden columned mosques with hypostyle halls emerged, later serving as a source of inspiration for religious architecture in these regions. The peak of this architectural style occurred in Anatolia during the 13th and 14th centuries CE and in Iran during the Safavid periods (16th to 18th centuries CE).The present research aims to classify the exquisite wooden mosques located in two regions: East Azerbaijan in Iran and Anatolia in Turkey, which were shaped under the influence of Central Asian wooden mosques and the local architecture of these areas. The most prominent feature of these mosques is the use of wooden columns topped with decorative muqarnas capitals, accompanied by painted wooden ceilings. From the perspectives of construction techniques, materials, column arrangements, and spatial patterns, significant differences exist between them.By analyzing over 50 mosque samples through library and field studies, a general classification was established based on the orientation of the main beams in the prayer hall into two main groups: first: Wooden columned hypostyle halls with beams parallel to the qibla axis, subdivided into five subtypes based on spatial emphasis criteria toward the qibla (such as the presence of a domed chamber above the mihrab and the enlargement of the bay in front of it), wall materials, and the presence or absence of column clusters. This type, influenced by the basilica plans of Byzantine churches, is more prevalent in Anatolia. Second: Columned hypostyle halls with main beams perpendicular to the qibla axis, subdivided into five subtypes based on the number of columns opposite the qibla wall (even or odd), types of materials, and the presence or absence of column clusters. This type is more commonly observed in Iran.
     
Type of Study: Original Article | Subject: the comparative studies of Architecture and Urbanism in the realm of Cultural Iran
Received: 2025/04/22 | Accepted: 2025/10/14

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