Recognition of Risk Reduction Methods against Disaster in Historical Places in Iran (Case study: Qazvin Old Bazaar

Bazaar is always considered as the main important space in historical Islamic cities, such as Qazvin, Iran. Although it was created by a long historical process, it seems surrounded today by modern urban elements. It has been functioning properly at all its eras, but now is lacking many structural characteristics to keep performance and are not able to reach present requirement for earthquake risks.Qazvin is located on a risky region and has experienced severe damage caused by earthquakes. Its Old Bazaar has been acting as a main economic pole even it was receiving severe destruction by earthquake. Now it is facing increasing risk at the time being.This paper is based on results of a research project conducted for MA degree in 2009 and 2010. Analytical-descriptive method was used to study data collected by in-depth interviewing both shop-keepers (owners) and customers (clients) who are frequently users of the Old Bazaar of Qazvin in 2009. Additional textual analyses were done on old documents about the Qazvin Bazaar and other Bazaars of Islamic cities such as Tabriz, Istanbul, etc. The research results have been formed as some indexes and criterions for reducing risk facing the Bazaar of Qazvin at earthquake events.Lessons learned suggest that a Disaster Management Agency should be established to cooperate with the Municipality, the City Council, the Cultural Heritage Organization, as well as local people and Bazaar-men Syndicate. Workshops and training programs are also suggested in order to improve knowledge on earthquake hazards, preservation methods and disaster management

Keywords:

Disaster , Risk Reduction , Historical Places , Qazvin Old Bazaar