Eric Lindstrom

Islamic Architecture
1. Pick three structures in Isfahan from different time periods and describe them in a
complete paragraph. In addition to general details, be sure in this paragraph to
explain their architectural and societal functions (what purpose did they serve), how
they fit into their historical period, and what drew you to these particular buildings.
a.
This is the shaft of the Minaret of ChehelDokhtaran and was constructed in the 11th
century. The high widow on this brick
structure was likely used to help call the city
to prayer at the prayer times throughout the
day (and perhaps warn of danger?). This was
constructed after the Seljuk tribes took over
this area in Iran and this time period was
defined by their accomplishments in
brickwork. What drew me to this particular
building was the unusually tall and smooth
structure, as well as the interesting history in
this time period.

b. This picture to the right shows the Madrasa Chahar

Bagh, which is a Royal Theological College It was built
in 1706, during a time when ancient architecture was
seeing outside influence make some changes. But
this building follows closely to the old architecture
with the common dome shape of this Islamic culture
and the towers for announcing prayer. But perhaps
the very colorful and majestic presence this structure
emanates reflects some outside influence. Towers

like these and this unique dome shape have always been a big part of Islamic architecture. This
is because Muhammad is believed to ascend into heaven from the famous Dome of the Rock
in Jerusalem. Muhammad also built this kind of dome on top of his mosque and its been a big
part of the culture ever since. This certain building was built to be a theological college and it is
still used as such today. This is why visitors are generally not allowed. What drew me to this
was the very interesting turquoise colors of both the dome and the towers. It certainly is a
magnificent structure.

c.

This picture depicts the Si-o-seh Pol or Bridge of 33 arches. This is one of Isfahans
most famous bridges and was commissioned in 1602. We can see each arch is the same
dome shape common to Islamic architecture, along with the many pillars and even the
square-like windows common among Islamic towers. This is a very useful bridge as it is
very thick and the walkway is walled on both sides to protect travelers from the wind.
The reason I picked this structure was because of the beauty of the surrounding area
and the great length and size of this bridge.

2. Again in a complete paragraph write about how the architecture of Salt Lake City
compares to Isfahan. Include what is similar and what is different about the buildings
of the two cities. Are there structures in Salt Lake City that would provide insight into
American culture and tradition (not just Utah culture)? {that is: what would a
foreigner looking at our buildings on a website be able to understand about
Americans from their buildings. Think a bit more than usual about these questions. I
want you to act like archaeologists or anthropologists and try to think about what our
buildings tell about ourselves}[If you are outside of Utah, you may use another large
U.S. city near your location].

In looking at what similarities there are between Isfahans architecture and Salt Lake Citys
architecture, it is very interesting that the capital buildings dome resembles the domes of
Islamic culture. Rome architecture had some influences on Islamic architecture, as can be
seen in some of their arches and pillars, but America, during the time of the founding
fathers was extremely influenced by Roman buildings. This is why our government
buildings all around the nation look as they do, and even why Washington D.C. is arranged
as it is. Not only there a Roman influence in Salt Lake City, but maybe even more European
influences. In many of the older structures in the city, and especially religious structures,
have spires or tops that resemble many old religious buildings or castles from Europe.
The evolution of architecture within Salt Lake City does not only tell the history, but also the
current lifestyle of the city. Current buildings in this city would tell a foreigner that
Americans like having space! Of course stadiums or places of recreation take up some good
city blocks, but even office buildings have their roomy offices and comfortable areas. To
make up for this use of square feet, skyscrapers and other very tall buildings are so common
among cities. I think an outsider looking in would say that Americans culture is based on
business, space, and living in the modern world.

Sources: http://www.isfahan.org.uk/