Islamic Art Studies

Islamic Art Studies

Typology of Qajar Mosque Architecture in Zanjan: Integration of Islamic Spatial Patterns with Climate-Responsive Strategies for Cold Climates

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Elham Poorahmadi 1
Hayedeh Khamseh 2
Mohammad Reza Saeedi 3
1 Department of Archeology, Faculty of Literature, Humanities and Social Sciences, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University,Tehran, Iran.
2 Associate Professor of Department of History and Archeology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
3 Associate Professor of Institute of Humanities Research and Development, SAMT, Tehran, Iran.
10.22034/ias.2025.540459.2427
Abstract
This research, within the framework of Qajar typology, Islamic spatial art, and climate-responsive integration, analyzes the historical mosques of Zanjan. It demonstrates how these mosques, by utilizing principles of Islamic architecture and combining climate-responsive strategies, have managed to create a meaningful balance between the requirements of a cold climate and spiritual values. The main issue is identifying the physical-spatial components effective in adapting these mosques to the cold climate and how the role of Islamic culture manifests and guides this process.
The research method is descriptive-analytical with a comparative approach. Data were collected through field surveys, document analysis, and physical examination of fourteen prominent Qajar mosques in Zanjan and compared. Findings show that a set of strategies—including introverted organization and spatial hierarchy, intelligent orientation and limited openings, design of winter/summer prayer halls, vestibule (hashi) and portico (riwaq) as thermal buffer zones and privacy filters, reduction of ceiling heights, and use of high-mass local materials such as brick, stone, mud-brick, and wood—have been the most effective responses for reducing energy loss and enhancing thermal comfort.
Simultaneously, Qajar characteristics such as simplification of form and popularization of space (reducing reliance on large domes/minarets and strengthening educational-social functions) have been combined with the sacred and behavioral principles of Islamic architecture. The result is a synergy between Islamic spatial art, climate-responsive strategies for cold climates, and the characteristics of the Qajar period, creating a sustainable and identity-rich pattern in Zanjan's mosques. This pattern not only responds to environmental needs but also strengthens religious-social identity and can serve as a strategic framework for designing religious buildings in similar climates.
Research Objectives


Identifying the physical and spatial components effective in adapting Zanjan's mosques to the cold and mountainous climate.


Examining the role of values and teachings of Islamic culture in the spatial organization and architectural design of these mosques.


Research Questions


What are the most important architectural features effective in adapting Zanjan's mosques to the cold climate?


How have Islamic spatial patterns in the Qajar mosques of Zanjan laid the groundwork for intelligent climatic strategies?
Keywords
Qajar Architecture
Islamic Spatial Patterns
Climate Responsiveness
Architectural Typology
Zanjan Mosques

Subjects

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