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Ramin Chehri, Seyyed Mehdi Mousavi, Mostafa Deh Pahlavan,
year 0, Issue 0 (3-2024)
Abstract

Tape Gohareh is an ancient site located in Kermanshah province, in the Bistun region (ancient Bagistana). Surface evidence obtained from initial surveys at this site indicates the presence of cultural artifacts from the Seleucid and Parthian periods. This research aims to investigate and analyze the historical and cultural status of Tape Gohareh and its connections with contemporary cultural centers in the Bagistana and Central Zagros regions. The research is based on field methods and documentary approaches. In the first method, archeological exploration was conducted to document cultural remains and findings, followed by a study of historical documents including books, published articles, and excavation reports as references. The results indicate the existence of an important ancient site from the Seleucid and Parthian periods in the Bagistana and Central Zagros regions, which can contribute to further study and understanding of cultural artifacts such as the pottery chronology from this period in the area. Architectural remains were found at Tape Gohareh in various settlements and phases, along with significant pottery types including decorated pottery, glazed pottery, kiln-fired pottery, plain pottery, as well as other cultural findings. The examination and study of these findings indicate cultural similarities between Tape Gohareh and other prominent sites in Central Zagros such as Sorkh Dom Laki in Kuhdasht, Laodicea in Nahavand, Anahita in kangavar and Ecbatana in Hamedan. It also appears that Tape Gohareh had social and cultural interactions with ancient Bagistana and had a significant impact on its historical landscape.
Alireza Ghasempour-Nobijari, Mahmood Seyyed, Alireza Vasei,
year 5, Issue 15 (6-2021)
Abstract

Abstract
During the Safavid period, the Shiite denomination spread in the Dekan peninsula and some sultans of the region having some common religious beliefs established good political relations with the Safavid government. The migration of Iranian shiits to one of the eighth century AH had significantly increased and reached its peak in the tenth and eleventh centuries. One of the emigrants who played a decisive role in strengthening the political relation between Nezam Shahian dynasty and the Safavid government was Shah Tahir. This paper aims to study the role of Shah Tahir, the factor in that ralationship and its impact on both governments. The authors applying a descriptive- analytical method try to explain the role of Shah Tahir in propagation of Shiism and consolidation of relations between the two countries. Data was collected through a research and library method. Although Nezam Shahian unlike Adel Shahian and Qutb Shahian had initially no connection with Iran and the Safavid dynasty, in fact they weren’t among those who had migrated to southern India, Shah Tahir’s migration led to the establishment and development of political, cultural relations with the Safavids. However the Nezsm Shahian lagged significantly behind the other Shiite governments in southern India, converting to Shiism, its attitude to Shiism was closer to that of the Safavid to it. And this led to a special connection between the Safavid government during Shah Tahmasb’s reign and Nezam Shahian dynasty. So we can say that the factor of religion played a key role strengthening the relation between the Safavid and Nezsm Shahian and the person who caused such a religious closeness was the Iranian bureaucrat, ShahTahir. In fact the migration of the Iranian bureaucrats to the southern India led to the spread of Shiism in that region and Shah Tahir influencing the king of Nezam Shahian caused the Shiite to become official in the region. That was the beginning of a Safavid-Nezam Shahian solid relation. 
Keywords: Shiite, Shah Tahir, Safavid, Nezam Shahian, Dekan Peninsula.

Introduction
The purpose of this study is to investigate the role of Shah Taher as an Iranian bureaucrat who, by migrating to Deccan during the reign of the Shah, has caused the spread of Shiism in this region and the political relationship between the two governments.
The important question raised in this study is what role did the Iranian bureaucrats, including Shah Taher, play in strengthening the relations between the Shahs and the Safavid government? It seems that the similarity of religion was the most important reason for the closeness and strengthening of political relations between the Shahs and the Safavid government. Among them were Iranian bureaucrats who led the Shiites to accept the Shiite religion, and Iranian bureaucrats, including Shah Taher, who operated in the royal court, promoted Shiism among the Shahs and the Safavids, strengthening the religious unity of the Shahs and the Safavids and strengthening their political, economic and cultural relations.
The present research is descriptive-analytical and its data collection method is library.
Cultural and civilizational relations between Iran and India have a long history. Among them, Iranian bureaucrats have played an indispensable role in deepening these relations and relations, especially in the Deccan region. The Iranian bureaucrats, who were themselves great scholars and had the Shiite religion, by infiltrating the court of various sultans, tried to attract their attention in order to gain the material and spiritual support of these rulers, and by inviting Shiite scholars and elders from Iran to Deccan and on behalf of Other appropriate mechanisms in the Deccan have promoted their Shiite ideas. Among these people are Mir Fazlullah Injui, Khajeh Mahmoud Gavan, Shah Nawaz Khan Shirazi, Afzal Khan Shirazi, Shah Taher, Mir Mohammad Mo’men Astarabadi, Ibn Khatun are among the great Shiite scholars and politicians who migrated to Deccan from Iran during the various governments of Deccan. They entered the system of government and progressed rapidly. They played a very important role in establishing governments and suppressing the uprisings and oppositions of that time, and by inviting Shiites, giving them positions, building mosques and schools, they played a very important role in the cultural and political developments of Deccan, especially deepening and spreading beliefs. They had Shiites. Among them, Shah Taher was an Iranian bureaucrat who played a key role in the tendency of the Shahs to Shiism as well as the strengthening of relations between the Shahs and the Safavids.

Discussion
The Shahs were a dynasty of Deccan kings who ruled in Ahmadnagar province from 895 AH to about 1042 AH. The founder of this dynasty was named Ahmad Shah, whose father held the position of minister in the court of Bahmani sultans. Ahmad Shah was also called Nizam al-Muk Bahri and it was because of this Nizam al-Mulk that this dynasty was called Nizam al-Shahi. After the death of Queen Ahmad Nizam Shah Bahri in 914 AH, his son Borhan became king. He was a lover of science and scholars. Many scholars depended on him. He had a special interest in Iranian scientists. During his reign in 928 AH, Taher Ibn Razi Hamedani, known as “Shah Taher Hosseini”, entered Ahmadnagar from Iran and created a map in the religious and political environment of the court. He influenced the argument with his knowledge and grace. Burhan Nizam Shah chose him as his minister and Shah Tahir settled that land and tried to serve Burhan and caused that in 962 AH, Burhan Nizam Shah turned to Shiism and introduced it as the official religion.
Shah Tahir, who was initially a supporter of Shah Ismail Safavid in Iran, opposed him and was about to be killed. He secretly went to India and lived in the court of a very honorable royal system. He trained many scholars in various Islamic subjects and his field of study was one of the largest in India. Burhan Nizam Shah Ahmad Nangari, the second ruler of the Nizam Shah dynasty in Ahmad Nangar, under the influence of Shah Tahir, converted to Shiism with his relatives and rulers and made it the official religion of his country.

Conclusion
About 3,000 people converted to Shiism in imitation of the Shah. The Sunni people and the great Sunni scholars reacted strongly to this move, they even besieged the royal palace, but to no avail. Following the change of the official religion of Ahmadinejad’s monarchy, there were changes in relations with foreign countries and conflicts with neighboring countries, but good relations were established with the Iranian government. Shah Ismail Safavid showed interest in friendship with Borhan and sent his ambassador to Ahmadnagar. Until the time of Shah Tahmasb, good relations between the Shahs and the Safavids continued.

Mohammadsadegh Roostaei, Reza Mehrafarin, Seyyed Rasool Moosavihaji, Mojtaba Saadatian,
year 6, Issue 22 (2-2023)
Abstract

Abstract
Tol-e-Zahak site, as the ancient city of Fasa in the historical and Islamic period, is located about 2 km south of the modern city of Fasa in the eastern center of Fars province and was registered as the 15th national monument in 1310 AD. After conducting a archaeological systematic survey of this site in 1397, in addition to identifying the extent of the site (based on the dispersion of surface data) which reaches more than 500 hectares; Chronology and settlement periods of the site, which indicate its habitation from the late fourth millennium BC to the Islamic Middle Ages; It was found. By studying the data obtained from the survey, especially pottery samples, one of the important settlement periods of Tol-e- Zahak area is the settlement related to the Sassanid period. Scattering of cultural materials related to this period (especially pottery) was observed almost all over the site. In this article, the authors intend to examine the historical sources and previous archaeological research in the region in connection with the Sassanid period in the region, the results with the data related to the Sassanid settlement identified from the methodical study of Tol-e- Zahak site, Intertwined (Historical Approach) and to reconstruct the appearance of Fasa city in the Sassanid period as much as possible. Studies show that the Sassanid settlement of Tol-e- Zahak site is undoubtedly a large urban settlement of the type of cities with an irregular shape of the Sassanid period. Due to its strategic location and suitable environmental conditions for agricultural and livestock activities, this city as one of the important commercial and commercial cities throughout the Sassanid rule and even a few centuries after the advent of Islam in Darabgerd province in the east of Persia Has played a role.
Keywords: Tol-e- Zahak Site, Ancient City of Fasa, Archaeological Survey, Sasanian Period.

Introduction
Fasa is a city in the eastern central of Fars province, despite the environmental conditions suitable especially for agricultural activities and also its special strategy position, which is located between the civilization areas of the east and west of the Iranian plateau on the one hand and the access route to the open waters of the Pars sea, despite the identification of many works and sites from prehistory to late centuries, Islamic archeological knowledge, especially the situation of the region in its historical period is very small Zahak bridge (Tol) is the largest ancient site of the city and one of the most important ancient sites of Fars. Most of the researchers in the area are related to the pre-revolutionary period. Some limited investigations were carried out on each of these sites based on a specific settlement or only included the main mount of the area which gave its name to the entire part. So it’s necessary to carry out a systematic investigation that covers the entire area of the site and all settlement periods. After the systematic investigation of the site that was carried out in 2017C (1397) based on the distribution of cultural materials. 
The surface area of the site was more than 500 hectares it was reached with the chronology of the cultural materials of the period of the residence in the site from the end of the fourth millennium to the middle Islamic century it was estimated continuously without interruption it seems that despite the most Sasanian cities during the Sasani’s period, the city of Fasa has been an important commercial city in the region since and it reached the peak of its expansion and prosperity in the Sasanian and early Islamic period. On the other hand, the historical and geographical sources of the beginning of Islam have a close relationship with Sasanians and called the city a large city with many products and prosperous commerce a city that has all the important structural features like; Kohandej, Baroo, Khandagh Sharrstan, Rabz… .

Data
The largest number of sites identified in the archaeological survey of Fasa which was conducted in 2008 (1388) belongs to the Sasanian period. A total of mounds and artifacts have been identified from this period (image 3). Of these 18 sites, only Sasanian settlements Also 28 sites were identified with the continuity of settlement from the Ashkanian to Sasanian period, 1391(166), the results of archaeological investigation and excavations region in Fasa indicate the importance of the region such a way that all the boundaries of the city witness settlements related to this period include urban and rural settlements, (watch towers), (fire temples), (water structures), (cemeteries), etc.
The main part of this article is derived from the results of the methodical archaeological survey of the site of Tol Zahak, it’s necessary to give a brief explanation of the survey and sampling method chosen for this site. Since the area in question is located between the modern city of Fasa and the two villages of Dastjeh and KheyrAbad, most of its lands has been cultivated and turned into agricultural lands for the villagers on the other hand the urban and rural construction in the northern, southern and eastern parts of the are an don’t allow a more accurate estimate of the area out to the size and extent of the area the selection of small square brought problems. So it was decided the entire area can be gridded into units with dimensions of 100 × 100 meters in the main geographical directions. Sampling to select the sample units in this research is based on one of the pre-defined, scientific methods, which is stratified methodical sampling.

Discussion
General chronology of Tol e Zahak and recognition of the settlement periods as well as identification of each period is based on the pottery chronology obtained from the methodical investigation of this area. According to the existence of prominent Sasanian cities explored near Fasa such as Darabgerd, Ardeshir Khoreh, Fasr AbuNasr, etc. Knowing the Sasanian pottery of this area is not very complicated. They have enough cooking. Pottery with a thick red mud coating and gray pottery with a black coating (image 6) of the common types of Sasanian pottery of the Tol-e-Zahak area which were identified from almost all investigated units. Among the interesting points of Sasania’s pottery of the Tol-e- Zahak is the use of decoration. There is a large undulating log on their outer surface. According to the distribution of Sasanian pottery in the Tol site, the Sasanian settlement covers the entire surface of the site, and it can be called a large urban settlement that is located next to the important cities of Kureh. Darabgerd has been in the eastern center of the Pars state based on the large dispersion of pottery known as Sasanian-Islamic pottery on the entire surface Fasa has passed the transition from the Sasanian period.
In the Islamic period without any change in the urban structure of the area of Tol -e-Zahak, several types of pottery related to this period were found. One of these characteristic types is pottery with an alkaline green glaze with added motifs which was obtained from most of the sampled units of Tol Zahak (image7) other types of Pottery related to this period are pottery with carvings decoration with a wave on the edge and other surface and the pottery is decorated with a grooved log pattern and these samples are almost was found all over the area. Sir Orel Eshtein the first explorer of Tol Zahak describes it as follows: there isn’t a big ancient area in Fasa except Tol Zahak so without doubt this area is the old city of Fasa (eshtein,1936) but this hypothesis was scientifically proven by conducting a systematic investigation. Conditions suitable environment and special strategic location of Fasa due to its location between several royal cities.

Conclusion
Fasa City has different from other important cities of the Fars State in the Sasanian period such as Bishapor, Darabgerd, ArdeshirKhore, and, Estakhr the most important issue is the function of the city and its background and history. The most important cities in Fars in the Sasanian period can be considered royal and religious cities that played a big role as religious centers of the Sasanian period. Without any doubt, the existence of significant governmental and religious structures in cities is undeniable but Fasa can only consider the commercial prosperity of commerce and agriculture as the most important factors of the city’s prosperity in the Sasanian period. It is the commercial center of Fars State and most of the geographers who have visited this city are described in their works. Trade and commerce of Fasa have been praised a lot. Archaeological evidence shows that the Sasanian-Islamic period of Tol Zahak is one of the large and important settlements of the site the Sasanian period and the early Islamic centuries can be concluded this transfer of power from Sasanian to Muslim Arabs which includes the aspect political and religious issues couldn’t have created a disturbance in the prosperity of Fasa.
Their fore description of the large size of the city included commerce and agriculture can imagine the Sasania’s area well. According to the description of the surface, Fasa is estimated to be about 500 hectares and is one of the largest cities. Another issue is related to the historical region in the Sasanian cities. Most of the royal cities in Fars as BiShapor were founded in this period and Darabgerd and Ardeshir Khoreh a little time passed it was used like checkered entities but about the formation of city it is very different issue.

Javad Abbasi, Roya Bahadori, Federica Cappa, Dubravka Jembrih-Simbuerger, Manfred Schreiner, Seyyed Iraj Beheshti,
year 7, Issue 23 (5-2023)
Abstract

Abstract
In this study, the colors used in the Inscription and mural paintings of tomb of Ghadmagah in Neishabour were analyzed by instrumental analytical methods. Ghadmagah is located in the center of the Zabarkhan section, on the Neyshabur-Mashhad Road. Ghadmagah tomb-garden is located in the village of the same name 24 kilometers east of Neyshabur, Iran, and was built in the early seventeenth century. According to historical sources Ghadmagah was built in the early eleventh century AH (ca. 1600 AD), and the origin of this site dates back to Islam. Some believe that the Ghadmagah monument was designed by Sheikh Baha’i. The architectural decoration of this building is most importantly tiling, plastering and mural paintings. Given that the building was built in different periods and originally dates back to the Safavid period. The present study aimed to study the color bedding and pigments in the Inscription and mural paintings of the building to find out what period the mural paintings in the building belong to. Mural painting is one of the Iran arts that based on the signs of old paint can be pursued to pre-history. One of the most important issues in the study of historical paintings, especially mural paint, is the identification of the nature of paintings used to decorate the walls. Identification of pigments is also important not only from the perspective of archeology but also in terms of the history of art and knowledge of degradation processes and the development of monument conservation strategies is also important. In this study, instrumental methods such as scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX), Fourier- transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), polarized light microscopy (PLM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and micro-Raman spectroscopy have been used for elemental and compound microanalysis of the samples. 
Keywords: Pigment, Neyshabur Ghadmagah, Inscription, Mural Painting, Analytical Methods.

Introduction
The use of physical and chemical analysis methods to identify the constituents of works of art, before any intervention occurs, plays a key role; because the results of such an analysis are very useful for deciding whether to conserve or regenerate these materials. In addition, each of the different pigments can have a different regeneration process. On the other hand, the analysis of ancient paintings may provide information about the artistic techniques and visual materials used in the past and expand the knowledge of the customs and techniques of ancient societies. 
In fact, physical and chemical analysis provides useful information about the range of pigments present in an area and knowledge of dye preparation techniques and applications. In addition, the study of the originality and origin of pigments allows the discovery of connections and trade lines. On the other hand, restorers need detailed information about the chemical composition of the materials used in a work before restoration work. 
Identifying the materials and pigments used in this building is one of the most important questions of this research, and then by considering the history of using pigments, we can understand the dating of the paintings in this building. Do these paintings belong to the period of construction of the building, ie the Safavid period, or were they added to the building in later historical periods? Depending on the type of painting pigments, the colors can be restored. 

Materials and Methods 
In this research, empirical and analytical methods have been used to achieve the goals. Data collection is based on information from library studies and instrumental methods. The complete information of the devices used in this research is fully described in the Materials and Methods section. 
In this study, instrumental methods such as scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX), Fourier- transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), polarized light microscopy (PLM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and micro-Raman spectroscopy have been used for elemental and compound microanalysis of the samples. 

Data 
The result of the analysis showed that the blue color was used in inscription was artificial ultramarine (Na6-10Al6Si6O24S2-4) on a gypsum layer (CaSO4.2H2O) also gold color showed presence of copper and zinc alloy in the ratio of 10:1 in gold color. The blue color used in the mural paintings was also artificial ultramarine on a red layer of ochre. The result of micro-Raman showed that green pigment was copper phthalocyanine (phthalocyanine green). The results of identification of the orange-red revealed the presence of a mixture of red lead (minium) and red ochre (iron oxide) in the sample. Also, according to the obtained results, ochre and mixture of iron and manganese oxides were used in red and brown colors. 

Discussion 
The inscription at the top of the building used two colors, blue and gold, the result of the analysis showed that the blue color was artificial ultramarine (Na6-10Al6Si6O24S2-4) on a gypsum layer (CaSO4.2H2O). The absence of minerals such as pyrite and calcite in the PLM images indicates that the ultramarine is synthetic. The blue color used in the mural paintings was also artificial ultramarine on a red layer of ochre. The result of micro-Raman showed that green pigment was copper phthalocyanine (phthalocyanine green). A synthetic organic material composed of chlorinated copper phthalocyanine (chlorinated Phthalocyanine blue). Phthalocyanine green was introduced as an industrial pigment in 1938. This pigment is unaffected by light, heat, and chemicals the use of this pigment showed that the mural paintings was restored in Contemporary period. The results of identification of the orange-red revealed the presence of a mixture of red lead (minium) and red ochre (iron oxide) in the sample. Also, according to the obtained results, ochre and mixture of iron and manganese oxides were used in red and brown colors. FTIR results showed the presence of organic material only in green, indicating that it was the only reconstituted pigment, but no other organic material was detected in other colors, which may be due to the instability of organic materials during the time. 
Green phthalocyanine copper is a new pigment that may have been used to restore painting. This pigment was first used in 1320 AD, but it is not clear on what date this pigment was used to repair or reconstruct this paint. Due to the presence of oil in the FTIR spectrum of this color, it seems that unlike other colors, oil has been used to close this color, and the technique used in this color is different from other colors. 

Conclusion 
Identification of materials and pigments showed that the paintings are due to the presence of artificial ultramarine, were done in the Qajar period (1789-1925) and presence of phthalocyanine green in green color showed that this mural painting was restored in Contemporary period. 
The result of the analysis showed that the blue color was used in inscription was artificial ultramarine (Na6-10Al6Si6O24S2-4) on a gypsum layer (CaSO4.2H2O). The absence of minerals such as pyrite and calcite in the PLM images indicates that the ultramarine is synthetic. The results of identification of gold color showed presence of copper and zinc alloy in the ratio of 10:1 in gold color. The blue color used in the mural paintings was also artificial ultramarine on a red layer of ochre. The result of micro-Raman showed that green pigment was copper phthalocyanine (phthalocyanine green). A synthetic organic material composed of chlorinated copper phthalocyanine (chlorinated Phthalocyanine blue). Phthalocyanine green was introduced as an industrial pigment in 1938. This pigment is unaffected by light, heat, and chemicals the use of this pigment showed that the mural paintings was restored in Contemporary period. The results of identification of the orange-red revealed the presence of a mixture of red lead (minium) and red ochre (iron oxide) in the sample. Also, according to the obtained results, ochre and mixture of iron and manganese oxides were used in red and brown colors. Identification of materials and pigments showed that the paintings are due to the presence of artificial ultramarine, were done in the Qajar period (1789-1925) and presence of phthalocyanine green in green color showed that this mural painting was restored in Contemporary period. FTIR results showed the presence of organic material only in green, indicating that it was the only reconstituted pigment, but no other organic material was detected in other colors, which may be due to the instability of organic materials during the time.

Dr. Morteza Ataie, Seyyed Rasoul Mousavi Haji, Kamal Lotfinasab, Rahele Koulabadi,
year 8, Issue 28 (8-2024)
Abstract

Abstract
Qal’eh Bandar is situated on top of the mountain on the northern edge of the Shiraz plain. It overlooks a gorge which, along with Allah Akbar Gorge, was one of the few access routes from the Shiraz plain to the northern plains and the Marvdasht plain. The remains of this castle, including its towers and its three intriguing deep stone wells, are overlooking the street that leads to Saadi Tomb. According to historical and archaeological evidence, before the construction of the new city of Shiraz Qal’eh Bandar, alongside other fortifications such as Qasr-i Abu Nasr and possibly Pol-i Fasa Qal’eh, controlled the Shiraz plain during Sasanian and early Islamic periods. There are limited archaeological investigations of this fort, however the authors attempt to reconstruct the history, periods of occupation, and abandonment of this significant castle in the Shiraz plain by gathering and analyzing historical documents and archaeological findings. The main question of this research is the history of settlement of Qal’eh Bandar, as well as its connection to the name “Shahmubad Castle,” mentioned in some early Islamic geographical sources. The study results indicate that Qal’eh Bandar was used intermittently and frequently, at least from the Sassanian to the Safavid period, after which it was abandoned. However, there were also periods when the castle was abandoned and possibly unused. Folklore literature and culture reveal interesting similarities between the narratives of Qal’eh Bandar and the stories of the “One Thousand and One Nights,” which have not been previously considered. Additionally, contrary to common belief, “Shāhmubad Castle” does not correspond to Qal’eh Bandar but rather to the ruins of “Qasr-i Abu Nasr.
Keywords: Shiraz Plain, Qal’e Bandar, Pahandar, Shāhmubad, Qasr-i Abu Nasr.

Introduction
Historical evidence suggests that the Shiraz region lacked urban structures prior to the establishment of the new city in the latter half of the first century AH. Ibn Balkhi clearly indicated the absence of any city in this area before the Muslim Arab invasion. He described pre-Islamic Shiraz as a region with strong Castles. Considering the use of names similar to Shiraz and the mention of the Shiraz Castle in the Elamite tablets of Persepolis (Ti-ra-iz-zī-iš / Šir-zī-iš / Ti-ra-zī-iš / Ši-ra-iz-zī-iš), which reflect the Elamite version of the Old Persian name *Dīrāčiš, Richard Frye proposed the hypothesis that during the Achaemenid period, the name Shiraz referred to a region encompassing several villages and Castles. After the Achaemenid era, the name Shiraz reappears in the form of šyrɔcy as part of the Ardashir-Khwarrah district in Sasanian seals discovered at the site known as Qasr Abu Nasr in Shiraz. These pieces of evidence are significant for two main reasons. They help in determining the precise location of Shiraz in Sasanian era. They also provide insights into the political and administrative divisions of that period. It appears that, alongside Qasr Abu Nasr, other Castles were important in controlling and administrating of the Shiraz plain before Islam. Among these castles, Qal’eh Bandar holds great importance. Researchers have often identified it with the Shāhmubad Castle, the most important Castle in Shiraz according to early Islamic sources. However, no clear evidence has been provided to support this identification yet. The present research intents to answer two primary questions. First, is there a historical and geographical connection between Qal’eh Bandar and toponym Shāhmubad castle? Second, based on historical texts and archaeological evidence, when this Castle was inhabited and abandoned? Despite the significant historical and archaeological importance of Qal’eh Bandar, there has been little comprehensive research on the history and archaeology of this castle. By examining and analyzing the historical and geographical sources, and then correlating them with archaeological findings, this article reveals information on the history and periods of settlement and abandonment of Qal’eh Bandar in the Shiraz plain. It also provides a more detailed understanding of the role and significance of Qal’eh Bandar in the context of the broader historical and administrative landscape of Shiraz.

Discussion
Several famous Islamic geographers referred to an ancient castle called “Shāhmubad” in Shiraz. Moreover, Istakhari mentioned a Tasuj called “Shāhmubad/Shāhmarnak” among the thirteen Tasujs of the Shiraz plain. Most modern researchers have considered Shāhmubad castle to be the same as Qal’eh Bandar without any evidence. Moreover, Whitcomb has attempted to define the area of Tasuj Shāhmarnak/Shāhmubad in the Shiraz plain based on Qal’eh Bandar’s location (or Shāhmubad castle, in his opinion and that of other researchers). The authors, however, believe that Shāhmubad’s castle is not actually Qal’eh Bandar but rather the ruins of Qasr-i Abu Nasr. In support of this location, one should consider a bulla discovered at Qasr-i Abu Nasr, which is the most common seal impression in this collection. It bears the Middle Persian inscription šylɔcy mgwx. The legend “mgwx” or “mgwh” referred to the most common administrative position seen in the administrative seal impressions on Sasanian bullae. There has been much discussion about it. Frye suggested that “mgwx” is an abbreviation of /magu-x[wadāy]/ mgwx[wtɔy], meaning chief magu/chief priest. To support this reconstruction, Frye referred to a bulla in the British Museum which bears the full form of the word mgwxwdɔt. 
Since the Middle Persian word xwadāy means Lord, and it was usually translated to Shah in New Persian texts—such as the translation of Khwaday-Namag into Shahnameh—the authors believe that “Shāhmubad” could also be a new translation of magu xwadāy. Furthermore, if a Sasanian and early Islamic castle was named “Shāhmubad” or a similar version of this word, the castle is not Qal’eh Bandar but possibly Qasr-i Abu Nasr, where magu xwadāy or his administrative institution was located.
Based on historical texts, nine phases can be identified in Pahander Castle, including construction, restoration, addition, and destruction:
- Phase 1: Construction, Sasanian period, probably Shapur II’s reign
- Phase 2: Addition, Sasanian period, probably Yazdgird III’s reign
- Phase 3: Destruction, Arab conquests, 1st century AH
- Phase 4: Restoration, Buyid, Imad al-Dawla (327 AH)
- Phase 5: Restoration or addition, Buyid, Aḍud al-Dawla
- Phase 6: Restoration, Buyid, Abu Qanim ibn-i Amaid al-Dawla
- Phase 7: Restoration or addition, Muzaffarids, Shāh Shoja (760 AH)
- Phase 8: Restoration, Timurid, Amir Sunjak (796 AH)
- Phase 9: Final destruction, Safavid, Imam Quli Khan (after 1031 AH)
Moreover, three phases of abandonment can be considered:
- Phase 1: From the late 1st century AH until the Buyid period
- Phase 2: From the middle of the Seljuk period until the Injuids
- Phase 3: From the middle of the Safavid period until the present
The mentioned phases are based only on historical evidence and should be complemented with archaeological surveys and investigations.

Conclusion
Before the construction of the newfound city of Shiraz in the second half of the first century AH, a system of fortifications, including Qal’eh Bandar, Qal’eh Pol-i Fasa, and Qasr-i Abu Nasr as the center, were erected to control the Shiraz plain during pre-Islamic (particularly Sasanian) and early Islamic periods. It remains unclear why previous researchers have identified Qal’eh Bandar as the Shāhmubad castle mentioned in Islamic geographical sources. The present study clarifies that there is not solid evidence to substantiate this claim. In addition, the sigillographic evidence from Qasr-i Abu Nasr indicates that it is very probable that Qasr-i Abu Nasr, rather than Qal’eh Bandar, considered as the Shāhmubad castle. Although Qal’eh Bandar is situated on a rather low mountain, its strategic position allowed to control the Shiraz plain and the adjacent gorge, which was one of the few significant routes providing access from the Shiraz plain to the northern regions and the Marvdasht plain. This location advantage resulted in intermittent occupations at Qal’eh Bandar from its construction during the historical period—probably Sasanians—up to the later Islamic centuries. The significant strategic position of Qal’eh Bandar is evident from its intermittent settlements over the centuries. However, when the adjacent route lacked its importance, and the Safavid sought to reduce government expenditures, Qal’eh Bandar was destroyed by Imam Qoli Khan. Following its destruction, the castle was never rebuilt again. Despite its destruction, Qal’eh Bandar left a rich legacy in the collective memory of the people of Shiraz. This legacy persists in both bitter and sweet memories; Most often bitterly, due to the harsh punishment inflicted on adulteresses by throwing them into the well of the castle, or sometimes sweetly, through the recollection of its rock slide, which has become a part of local folklore.

Seyyed Hafez Karimian Gol Sephidi, Ali Zamanifard, Maliheh Mohseni,
year 8, Issue 28 (8-2024)
Abstract

Abstract
Throughout history, historical architectural works have been maintained, changed in use, expanded spatially, and had architectural elements added. These interventions and additions contribute to the dynamic nature of a structure. However, dealing with these additions, whether through familiarization, complementary conservation, or occupation of the constituent elements, can be a complex process. Proper actions in conservation, stabilization or destruction require an understanding of the reasons behind the existence of each layer, which could provide the basis for essential actions. This research aims to examine the formation of historical layers over time. It seeks to address questions such as the role of historical layers in conservation decisions and the process of a building’s evolution. This study is classified as applied and developmental research, utilizing a combination of strategies and research methods. It will be a qualitative research study based on a case study approach, utilizing archival documents, fieldwork, and library resources, and documentary data collection. The study will place a particular emphasis on conducting field observations. The Pir Bakran building has been chosen as an important architectural feature to illustrate the path towards understanding buildings with multiple historical layers. It heavily relies on the research method based on case samples and data analysis. Ultimately, this research emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive understanding of historical structures and their different aspects throughout the conservation process. This includes accurate knowledge of the work’s existence, nature, and the recognition of all historical layers and the reasons behind their creation as the work has developed and evolved over time. Such understanding forms the foundation for effective and proper conservation.
Keywords: Architectural Extensions, Historical Layers, Evidence- Based Restoration, Pir Bakran Mansion.

Introduction
The 11th article of the Venice charter suggests that the valid contributions of all periods to the building of a monument must be respected, since unity of style is not the aim of a restoration. When a building includes the superimposed work of different periods, the revealing of the underlying state can only be justified in exceptional circumstances and when what is removed is of little interest and the material which is brought to light is of great historical, archaeological or aesthetic value, and its state of preservation good enough to justify the action. Evaluation of the importance of the elements involved and the decision as to what may be destroyed cannot rest solely on the individual in charge of the work. So, it would appear that the exceptions allow for intervention in the structure and the removal of layers, especially extensions. But there is a question: what feature of that particular layer enables intervention?
However, many theorists argue that the presence of historical layers within a structure affects its authenticity, particularly in light of the fact that material integrity is taken into account when determining the historical accuracy of a work The Nara document (1994) of course, this issue is related to various perceptions and the gradual emergence of the notion of authenticity. The Nara document (ICOMOS, 1994) brought up a never-before-discussed issue: the varying perspectives on authenticity across different cultures. Effective conservation calls for the accurate reading of historical layers in valuable buildings and an understanding of the factors that led to the formation of additional layers in various eras. The research’s central premise is that historical layers are intentionally created over time.  
The hypothesis of this research is “creation of historical layers over time is purposeful”. The research questions include: What role do historical layers play in historical decision-making? How does the process of building evolution occur? What are the reasons for the formation of historical layers in a building? Will be. The historical monument of Pir Bakran was the subject of a case study that was looked into in order to comprehensively and deeply clarify the topic, content and understanding of the phenomenon within the context. Due to this monument’s historical feature, varied uses throughout its history, and multiple significant historical layers with various causes for formation, it has received discussion that hasn’t been done before. It will be a qualitative research based on a case study approach, utilizing archive documents, fieldwork, and library and documentary data collection, with a particular emphasis on field observations. The so-called process that should be followed in order to understand the building with different historical layers is indicated by an examination of the case study’s outputs.

Identified Traces
Over time, conservation theories from the 20th century have revealed the various facets of authenticity. These studies have demonstrated that throughout its history, authenticity has been a variable and relative concept. Theoretically, the approach to the idea of authenticity in charters and documents has significant implications for conservation and interventions, particularly when choices are made regarding the conservation or removal of historical layers. It has been looked over and read again to come to a conclusion about the historical layers. The emphasis was laid on the necessity to respect and maintain the authenticity of historic monuments as well as to safeguard them an appropriate use “no less as works of art then as historical evidence”. These aspects, in fact. From the essence of the theories of conservation, the questions around which debates had been going on for more than a century, and where opinions had often been divided (Jokilehto, 2005: 422).
Because the building’s historical eras reveal the history of the monument and provide tangible and intangible proof of the decisions made during its lifespan, entire portions of the evidence should be preserved. Conservation of historical evidence is crucial because loss shouldn’t happen as a result of preservation since a monument’s history can be viewed as a component of its value. The responsibility for safeguarding the historical layer, which implies the building’s life, survival, and durability, rests with the decision-makers. Buildings’ historical layers all work together to create a cohesive whole and give it consistency. In fact, every layer is a historical record of its time and shouldn’t be altered, moved, or removed during the intervention. The originality of a building’s overall design is also reflected in the originality of the building’s component parts or historical layers.

Conclusion 
Based on the research, which included details and changes identified in the Pir Bakran tomb’s architectural elements of and specific categories, determining the exact date of extension and added decorations with using inscriptions, old photographs, archaeological findings and architectural evidence, it determines that the Pir Bakran tomb has different and numerous historical periods, which makes it particularly complicated. This building’s construction began with a small adobe room, which was later joined by a lofty three-story structure, and due to political, religious and geological developments, decorative and structural elements with different periods are added to it. Some of the extensions were created while completing the Pir Bakran tomb and related to the construction period of the building. The expansion and additional elements of these periods, such as the additional belt, the southeast entrance, etc. shows the structural and decorative evolution of the building. In fact, a historical monument is the result of the combination of various historical layers that have formed over time and blended together. These layers have experienced ups and downs and, at times, have become intertwined, ultimately reaching us in their present state. Therefore, the removal and cleaning of these extensions would be against preservation principles. It has actually been necessary to conserve some of the Pir Bakran building’s historical layers, so it would seem necessary to maintain the structure’s integrity.

Asadallah Jodaki Azizi, Seyyed Rasool Mosavi Haji, Sahar Abdolahi, Afshin Ebrahimi,
year 9, Issue 32 (8-2025)
Abstract

Abstract
Iranian architects often designed structures to serve multiple functions beyond their primary purpose, a practice heavily influenced by Iran’s hot, arid climate and long summers. This multi-functionality is most evident in water-associated architecture, particularly in Isfahan’s historical bridges. Despite extensive research on Isfahan’s architecture, this specific aspect of its bridges has been understudied. This research aims to re-examine the non-transportation functions of four Isfahan bridges: Pol-e Shahrestan/Ji, Pol-e Allah-Verdi Khan/Si-o-se-pol, Pol-e Khaju/Shahi, and Pol-e Jubi/Sa’adat-Abad, highlighting their role in ceremonial and environmental landscape architecture. Main Research Question and Hypothesis: The study investigates how and why ceremonial functions were integrated into these bridges. It hypothesizes that this practice was inspired by Indian Jal Mahals (water palaces), introduced to Iran via extensive political and cultural exchanges during the Safavid era. Research Method: This study employs a historical-descriptive approach, with data gathered through documentary research and analysis of historical sources and travelogues. The findings indicate that while the concept of ceremonial water pavilions (Cheshmeh Emarat in Iran, Jal Mahal in India) pre-existed, its application on bridges was an innovation in Safavid Iran. The bridges served as ceremonial platforms for royal events like the Abrizan (Water Sprinkling Festival), receptions for ambassadors, and public spectacles. Furthermore, they played a crucial role in microclimate moderation by creating reservoirs that increased humidity and helped recharge underground aquifers, addressing critical environmental needs of the capital city.
Keywords: Historical Bridges, Cheshmeh Emarat, Safavid Isfahan, Jal Mahal, Ceremonial Architecture, Landscape Architecture.

Introduction 
This paper explores the multi-functional design of Safavid-era bridges in Isfahan, which extended beyond mere river crossings to incorporate significant ceremonial and environmental roles. This architectural ingenuity was a direct response to Iran’s challenging arid climate and the socio-political ambitions of the Safavid court. The study focuses on how the bridges Pol-e Shahrestan, Allah-Verdi Khan, Khaju, and Jubi were integrated into the urban and royal landscape. While the paradigm of the water pavilion (Cheshmeh Emarat) was known in Persian and Indian (Jal Mahal) architecture, its adaptation onto bridge structures represents a unique Safavid development. This research addresses a gap in the existing literature by systematically analyzing these bridges not just as feats of engineering, but as central elements of ceremonial life and environmental engineering in the capital.

Materials and Methods 
This research is based on a historical-interpretive methodology. Data was collected through meticulous documentary research, including analysis of primary sources like European travelogues (e.g., by Chardin, Tavernier) and Safavid chronicles. Secondary sources encompass modern scholarly works on Safavid architecture and urbanism. Architectural analysis was conducted by examining historical plans, photographs, and existing structures to understand the form and function of the pavilions. The comparative method is used to draw parallels between the Iranian Cheshmeh Emarat and the Indian Jal Mahal tradition, tracing potential routes of cultural and architectural influence during the 17th century.

Data and Findings 
The investigation reveals distinct evolutionary stages:
• Pol-e Shahrestan: An older bridge onto which an octagonal pavilion (Hasht Behesht plan) was added during the Safavid period, representing an architectural annexation rather than an original design.
• Pol-e Allah-Verdi Khan (Si-o-se-pol): Built by Shah Abbas I, its primary function was connectivity. Ceremonial activities were initially held in the vaulted spaces beneath the bridge deck due to structural constraints, serving as a royal loge for the Abrizan festival and receiving dignitaries.
• Pol-e Khaju: Constructed by Shah Abbas II, it represents the pinnacle of this integration. Two central pavilions (Beyglarbeygi), adapting the Hasht Behesht plan to the bridge’s axis, were purpose-built as ceremonial platforms. The bridge could be dammed to create a vast lake for boating, fireworks, and reflections of upstream palaces like Ayeneh-Khaneh.
• Pol-e Jubi: This bridge provided private access to royal gardens. It featured a central pavilion (now destroyed, but documented in European engravings) similar to the one on Pol-e Shahrestan, offering the royal family a secluded vantage point.

Discussion 
The findings confirm the hypothesis that the sophisticated development of bridge-pavilions in Safavid Isfahan was influenced by cultural and political exchanges with the Indian subcontinent, where the Jal Mahal tradition was well-established. The Safavids adeptly synthesized this influence with pre-existing Iranian concepts like the Cheshmeh Emarat and the ancient Abrizan festival. This discussion argues that these structures were not merely aesthetic additions but vital components of urban infrastructure. They served as instruments of royal propaganda, stages for displaying sovereign power to both the public and foreign emissaries. Furthermore, the creation of artificial lakes through damming was a brilliant hydrological strategy. It addressed Isfahan’s environmental needs by significantly moderating the microclimate through evaporative cooling and critically recharging the subterranean aquifers that supplied the city’s water via qanats.

Conclusion
In conclusion, the historical bridges of Safavid Isfahan exemplify a profound integration of multifunctional design. Iranian architects, responding to climatic necessities and royal ambition, masterfully extended the function of these structures from mere utilities to complex ceremonial platforms and environmental regulators. The practice of adding pavilions to older bridges or incorporating them into new designs was a strategic innovation in the landscape architecture of the era. While inspired by the Indian Jal Mahal, the Safavid implementation on bridges was an original contribution. These structures became iconic urban elements, central to the city’s public ceremonies and essential to its ecological balance. They stand as testament to a holistic architectural vision where utility, ceremony, and environmental technology were seamlessly woven together, defining the grandeur of Isfahan as a Safavid capital.

Hamid Zarei, Seyyed Mehdi Miri, Seyed Amir Ali Hosseini Harandi,
year 9, Issue 33 (12-2025)
Abstract

The vast territorial expanse and unique geographical position of Sasanian Iran necessitated that major inter-civilizational trade and communication routes between East and West either traverse the Sasanian heartland or skirt its peripheries. This strategic geography played a pivotal role in advancing the Sasanian policy of expansionism and economic monopolization, as well as in facilitating commercial, cultural, and political interactions with regional and trans-regional polities. Within this context, examining the political-cultural relations between the Sasanians and ancient Yemen is of particular significance, given both territories’ possession of maritime fronts and their associated trade networks. Consequently, this research aims to investigate the nature and depth of the political and cultural relations between the Sasanians and Yemen, to identify the factors influencing the formation and evolution of these relations, and to assess the reciprocal impact of these relations on the historical developments of both lands. Furthermore, the role of archaeology in elucidating various dimensions of these relations will be considered. Through an analysis of historical and archaeological evidence, this study seeks to answer the following question: What factors led to the formation and perpetuation of political and cultural relations between the Sasanians and Yemen from the 4th to the 7th centuries CE? The findings indicate that hegemony over maritime trade routes played a central role in the interactions between Iran and Yemen during the Sasanian period. Moreover, the results of an examination of the artistic characteristics of specific archaeological finds from Yemen—namely, the Knight relief (from Dhofar), a female figure relief (from Dhofar), a fragment of a decorated textile depicting a Sasanian battle scene with Ethiopians (from Antinoë), and a carved four-faced capital (from the Qalʿa of Ḥasan al-ʿUr in Yemen)—reveal shared features with Sasanian art and corroborate the cultural-artistic influence of the Sasanians in the land of Yemen.


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