Tabriz Architecture Faculty
The Tabriz Architecture Faculty, housed within three remarkable traditional Persian mansions, offers students and visitors a captivating opportunity to witness the evolution of Persian architectural styles, from traditional to modern.
History
These architectural treasures, now home to the Tabriz Architecture Faculty, have their roots in various historic periods, spanning the Zand dynasty, the Qajar era, and the Pahlavi era (18th, 19th, and 20th centuries).
Description
The Architecture Faculty of Islamic Arts University in Tabriz is nestled within three historical gems, each of which showcases distinct architectural features and beauty. These imposing mansions feature two-story colonnades, serene inner courtyards, and ornamental ponds, providing a picturesque setting for aspiring art students.
Behnam House
The first gem in this trio is the grand Behnam House, a testament to traditional Persian design. Constructed during the late Zand dynasty and the early Qajar era, it follows the typical Persian house layout with two courtyards and two buildings – one for winter and the other for summer use. The entrance leads to an octagonal room and a central courtyard adorned with vibrant stained-glass windows and an intricately pillared veranda. The main building, a symmetrical two-story structure resting on a basement, boasts exquisite decorations, including mesmerizing frescoes and fine plasterwork. The spacious courtyard features lush trees and a serene pool.
Qadaki House
The second building within the Tabriz Architecture Faculty complex is another splendid Persian house from the Qajar era. Similar to Behnam House, the entrance opens into an octagonal room, leading to a delightful courtyard adorned with gardens and a central pool. The main building, a two-story structure, features an elegant veranda with numerous pillars on the second floor. Qadaki House boasts stunning decorations, including intricate mirrorwork, plasterwork, and graceful stained-glass windows.
Ganjehi Zade House
The third structure, the Ganjehi Zade House, also dates back to the Qajar era, with notable adaptations during the Pahlavi era. Covering an impressive 3000 square meters, this mansion features a three-story main building. Its façade, characterized by straight windows and pillared verandas, offers a seamless transition from traditional Persian to modern architecture. The building is divided into two parts: the eastern section, constructed during the Qajar era, and the western portion, added in the Pahlavi era. The eastern wing boasts a lofty veranda, three stories, and a basement with a pool. The western wing includes a basement, ground floor, and first floor, each adorned with pillared verandas and brick facades.
Visiting Hours
While these historic residences in Tabriz now serve as educational spaces, they graciously open their doors to visitors, allowing them to marvel at the grace and beauty of Persian architecture and decorative arts.
