Comprehensive Revelation on the Tomb Towers Architecture; Persia and Anatolia

Abstract

Purpose This article articulates the origin and development of early Islamic tomb tower architecture to middle period and evaluates similarities between Seljuq tomb tower architecture in Persia and Anatolia. To better understanding of the architectural history of this period, it is necessary to specify the description of the general features and its formation. The aim of this article was to suggest a methodological way, which algorithmically described, how the heritage of Persian Pre-Islamic architecture evolved and how the basic principles of Persian Early Islamic tomb tower architecture were developed. Consequently, the aim was to describe the influence on the Anatolian tomb tower architecture in an objective way, and to categorize the elemental features. Design/Methodology/Approach First, the article identifies the original traits of the Seljuq Empire mausolea i.e. domed cube and tomb tower, and their influence on Anatolian architecture. In addition, the morphological features, and typological structure propose an objective approach for the comparison of Persian and Anatolian mausoleum architecture in the Middle Period of the Early Islamic Era (10 to 12 AD). Subsequently, the morphological and structural similarities and differences in the architecture of these two territories have been examined along with their use and development in the historical process. Findings As a result, this can prove the hypothesis that the main architectural features have not changed radically, and the basis has remained similar. However, the decorations can be changed rapidly in a more variable way. The research also points, almost all the possible spatial and structural variations have been manifested amongst the early mausolea with a wide range of variations and combinations. Despite the similarities in the polygon of the plan, there are more differences in the construction and shape of domes. Research Limitations/Implications the inability to generalize the research findings. Social/Practical Implications Destruction of some of the case studies. Originality/Value The quantitative methodology used for better understanding the comparison result of the qualitative research.