The impact of function on geometry of Safavid palaces (case study: Hašt Behešt and Āli Qāpu)

The word geometry refers to the science of properties and relations of magnitudes such as points, lines, surfaces, or solids in space and the way the parts of a particular object fit together. Geometry has existed in many buildings and design forms across centuries. The first confirmed record of geometric knowledge and its relationship to astronomy, human and music can be traced back to the ancient Greeks, in particular, Pythagoras and Plato. The period of the Safavids, the dynasty that took control of Persia in the early 16th century, is often considered the beginning of modern Persian history, just as the state they created is said to mark the genesis of the Persian nation-state. In this paper, the impact of function on geometry of two Safavid’s palaces in Isfahan has been discussed by using Analytical and Descriptive Method. required data has been collected through Library documents.Hašt Behešt as a pleasure palace had complex and detailed geometry. Being placed in the middle of a private garden, following Persian garden palace build style, the possibility of view from any direction and being used by whole family (not only men) required Visual diversity, vast decoration and attractiveness which had been achieved throughout complex geometry. On the other hand, Āli Qāpu as a governmental-pleasure palace compare to Hašt Behešt has a simple geometry. located in a public place, being used by king and his royal or political guests, a part of square view and less private family usage, required a much simpler geometry. Thus, the geometry of Āli Qāpu palace is simple.

Keywords:

geometry , Safavid palaces , Hašt Behešt , Āli Qāpu