Author(s)

M. M. G. Soroush

Abstract

Iranian architecture, pre- and post-Islam, was established based on climate, geography, available materials, culture and native beliefs. In some parts of Iran, architecture has developed in harmony with dominant conditions such as nature and society. In this article we introduce an exemplary area of Iranian architecture in Abianeh Village, located in the Isfahan province of Iran, where attention has been paid to architectural characteristics, context, materials, climate and geography. Keywords: Abianeh, Iran, architecture, Islamic, materials, climate, geography, native introduction. 1 Introduction About 40 km northwest of Natanz in Isfahan province at the foot of the Karkas Mountain, an ancient village called Abianeh is located, considered among the most exceptional villages in Iran, due to its historical monuments and relics. The native architectural splendor is full of beauty in this village and it has placed it among the most wonderful areas in the world. Due to its pleasant climate, Abianeh was the dwelling of the Safavid court people coming to Natanz to stay for a full season. The households of Abianeh, estimated to be 500 units in 1982, live in houses located on a ravine of the Barzroud River, such that the roofs of downdrift houses are the yards of top houses while there is no wall surrounding them. Therefore, Abianeh, at first glance, is a multi-storey village and in some cases up to four storeys. Rooms of Abianeh houses are equipped with networked wooden windows having porches overlooking narrow and dark alleys. Exteriors of Abianeh houses are covered with red soil, the mine of which is near the village. Abianeh has seven wells used to irrigate gardens and fields. Wheat, potatoes and various fruit, especially apples, pears, apricots and nuts are grown. Traditional

Keywords

Abianeh, Iran, architecture, Islamic, materials, climate, geography, native introduction.