Revitalization of urban garrisons, concerning their tangible and intangible valuable layers (Case study: evolutions of Mashq Square during the 20th century in Tehran)

Militarism had great influences on architecture, urbanism and social life in the 20th century. Major changes occurred in the structure of bureaucratic system in Iran, following thoughts of the rulers to create the concept of state-nation. Changes happened both in physical and intangible aspects of buildings in this period. This analytical article tries to evaluate the tangible and intangible valuable layers of the 20th century garrisons through historical-descriptive method, applying document analysis and observation tools. It should be mentioned that military buildings have had great influences on urban spaces due to their multiplicity and their specific nature and function. Garrisons are among such buildings that were created in the suburbs at first place and then -with development of the historic cores of cities- became parts of them and then began their digestion process within new developed cities. Following the same trend, today we witness large terrains within cities belonging to garrisons and military centers. Reviving such valuable places have great importance, especially now that cities are in vital need for appropriate terrains to locate different functions. As successful experiences in transforming historical garrisons into parts of lively urban spaces are those that simultaneously meet contemporary needs and reflect preserving historical values and mental memories the article focuses on tangible and intangible valuable layers of the historical garrisons, through the 20th century evolution of Mashq Square in Tehran, with the hope that revitalization of such places could be an effective step to create different environmental perception and specific sense of place

Keywords:

Military heritage , Historical garrisons , tangible and intangible values , Mashq Square