Spatial Hierarchy in Iranian Mosques (Case Study: Jame Mosque of Yazd)

Abstract

The principle of hierarchy is one of the fundamental principles that dominate the universe. This principle is considered in the Muslims architecture and in Islamic thought. In this research, initially the position of hierarchy in Islamic art is explained in order to find out its importance and necessity. Afterwards, study the various spatial hierarchies through sample analysis of Iranian mosques (Jame mosque Yazd). The main research question is how the hierarchy of space is understood in the field of architecture? And how this meaning was manifested in Iranian mosques architecture? The research process is based on descriptive-analytical techniques and the required data is collected through library and field studies. The research and inference process is based on a case study analysis, and the extraction of qualitative and quantitative data. The research results show that "proportions" and "shape and form" are the most important factors in creating the spatial hierarchy in architecture of the Jame mosque in Yazd and to create a spiritual preparedness to enter the building and to understand the correct conduct from one space to another space in architecture.