Description
The ancient structure of Yazd is a collection of public-religious architecture in a very large scope comprising of different Islamic architectural elements of different periods in a harmonious combination with climatic conditions. The city is situated in between Isfahan and Kerman. There are every means of transportation to this city (planes, trains, and buses.)
By pondering the architecture of Yazd, one can realize the art of living, or, in other words, peaceful coexistence of human with the hostile environment and arid nature of the region. This art of living has improved manifestations and institutions in urbanization and architecture through hard work, perseverance and contentment of local people.
Yazd is one of the oldest cities in the world, which dates back to Sassanian Period (224-651 AD. It is renowned for its Badgirs( wind-catchers) and beautiful weavings created by its craftspeople. In addition, Yazd is home to Zoroastrian religion whose god was Ahura Mazda. A holy fire enclosed in the Zoroastrian temple in Yazd is believed to have burned non-stop since 470 B.C. Temple priests look after it. It is noteworthy that a century ago there were six Zoroastrian quarters in the city with the largest Zoroastrian population, there are still many of them residing in Yazd.
The highest identified wind tower in Iran (33.8 meter height) is in Dowlat Abad Garden that was built during the Zand dynasty. This garden is among the Persian gardens that was registered on UNESCO’s World Heritage List.
What makes this city special is the fact that it escaped the modernization trends that deteriorated many traditional earthen cities. It survives today with its traditional districts, the qanat system, traditional houses, bazars, hammams, water cisterns, mosques, synagogues, Zoroastrian temples and the historic garden of Dolat-abad. The city enjoys the peaceful coexistence of three religions: Islam, Judaism and Zoroastrianism.