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Showing 3 results for Heritage Preservation
A Note on the Book :The Interaction of Restoration and Architectural History in Iran
Eskandar Mokhtari Taleghani,
Volume 8, Issue 1 (6-2025)
Abstract
This note reviews the book "The Interaction of Restoration and Architectural History in Iran" by Zaatollah Nikzad. The author highlights that this book, emphasizing the relationship between restoration and architectural history, addresses the necessity of preserving architectural works, especially from the perspective of understanding and transmitting the embedded messages within them. The author argues that restoration should not merely be seen as an executive task but as an interpretive and research process, aiming to understand both the architecture and its history. Restorers must benefit from diverse sciences and, in addition to their artistic skills, should possess a proper understanding of architectural history and the creators of historical works. Mokhtari emphasizes that restorers, along with their scientific and technical skills, should engage with historiography and cultural understanding of architectural works, and this understanding should be incorporated into the restoration process. Architectural history must be documented precisely in interaction with the performed restorations to provide primary data for researchers. Ultimately, Mokhtari introduces the restorer as a custodian of architectural history and science, arguing that they should, with precision and responsibility, preserve historical information and evidence and pass them on to future generations. The book "The Interaction of Restoration and Architectural History in Iran" highlights the significance of this new approach in restoration, which should be regarded as the first step in research on Iranian architectural conservation and history.

Modern Conservation Education: From Technical Knowledge Transfer to Training Competent Specialists – Faculty of Conservation and Restoration, Isfahan University of Art
Hamidreza Bakhshandeh-Fard,
Volume 8, Issue 2 (9-2025)
Abstract
In the educational system of conservation, the main focus has always been on the transfer of technical and specialized knowledge regarding structures, techniques, and conservation interventions. Although this scientific foundation constitutes an inseparable part of training in this discipline, recent developments in the field of cultural heritage conservation demonstrate that social competencies, soft skills, teamwork, and professional ethics also play an effective role in improving the quality of specialists’ performance. The Isfahan University of Art, with a long-standing tradition in higher education in the arts, is one of the pioneering and influential centers in the country in the field of safeguarding and revitalizing cultural and historical heritage. Established in 1977 with the foundation of the “Isfahan Campus” affiliated with “Farabi University,” this academic institution has, from the outset, aimed to train experts in the conservation and restoration of historical monuments and traditional architecture, and has become an unparalleled center at the national level. This paper reviews the history of the establishment of the Faculty of Restoration as well as the current structure of conservation education in specialized faculties, emphasizes the necessity of integrating technical training with complementary domains, and proposes strategies for revising educational programs in order to train responsible and competent conservators.

Explaining Conservation Solutions Based on the Understanding, Typology, and Pathology of Muqarnas in Mosques (Case Study: Moshtaghieh Complex, Kerman)
Hossein Esmaeili Sangari, Mina Heydari Torkamani, Amirhossein Jafarpour,
Volume 9, Issue 2 (9-2026)
Abstract
Muqarnas, a key element of Islamic architecture, holds both artistic and structural significance. The Moshtaghieh Historical Complex in Kerman, from the Qajar era, features remarkable examples in domes, entrances, and niches. Over time, these elements have deteriorated due to environmental factors, aging materials, seismic events, and improper restorations. This study aims to develop effective conservation strategies through detailed typological and pathological analysis. Documentation included high-resolution photography, measurements, and architectural drawings to classify muqarnas into types such as stalactite-shaped, modular, and layered forms based on their architectural context. Damage assessment revealed issues like discoloration, biological growth, salt efflorescence, cracks, material loss, and deformation.Conservation proposals follow international heritage standards of minimal intervention, reversibility, and authenticity. Strategies include environmental control, compatible mortar consolidation, structural stabilization, and traditional restoration techniques. A significant aspect of the study is the use of 3D digital reconstruction through photogrammetry, enabling damage visualization and restoration planning.This research offers a practical and replicable model for the conservation of Islamic ornamentation by integrating traditional craftsmanship with modern documentation technologies, supporting sustainable heritage preservation and future educational efforts.

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