Journal of Archaeological Studies

The Sheikh-Makan Monument in Ilam Province, Western Iran: Fire Temple or Water Mill?

Leila Khosravi

Volume 17, Issue 2 , August 2025, , Pages 217-235

https://doi.org/10.22059/jarcs.2025.392824.143342

Abstract

The Sheikh Makan structure in Ilam Province represents one of the most debated architectural remains from the Sasanian period, consistently drawing scholarly attention and controversy. ... Read More The Sheikh Makan structure in Ilam Province represents one of the most debated architectural remains from the Sasanian period, consistently drawing scholarly attention and controversy. This study employs a systematic methodology to analyze the site’s architectural features, construction techniques, and archaeological context in order to determine its primary function. The rectangular complex comprises a central domed chamber, a vaulted iwan, and integrated hydraulic channels elements characteristic of industrial architecture, particularly watermill infrastructure. Notably, the structure lacks key markers typically associated with Sasanian religious architecture, such as circumambulatory corridors, fire temple, and the canonical north-south sacred orientation. In contrast, the building displays unmistakable industrial features, including flour production mechanisms and milling apparatus. A comparative analysis with established Sasanian religious complexes most notably the Negar Fire Temple and the Espakho Temple reveals significant divergences in spatial organization and intended use. Archaeological evidence, supplemented by ethnoarchaeological data, supports the hypothesis of its prolonged use as a hydraulic mill, indicating the functional adaptation of a Sasanian-era construction during later periods. The site’s strategic location adjacent to defensive structures and historical trade routes further underscores its economic rather than religious significance. Although some scholars, have proposed a sacred function for the site (suggesting it may have served as a fire temple), the present study definitively identifies the structure’s primary role as an industrial facility. It thus offers a paradigmatic example of Sasanian architectural repurposing in the Islamic era. These findings underscore the need for targeted archaeological excavations to resolve existing chronological ambiguities and to trace the developmental trajectory of the building within the broader framework of Iranian architectural history. Ultimately, this research makes a significant contribution to understanding the functional transformation of built environments and the complex interplay between sacred and utilitarian spaces in post-Sasanian Iran.

Mineralogy and Elemental Analysis of Sasanian-Early Islamic Potsherds from the Jahangir Archaeological Monument in Ilam Based on Petrography, XRF, ICP

Leila Khosravi; Milad Baghsheikhi

Volume 15, Issue 2 , December 2023, , Pages 75-91

https://doi.org/10.22059/jarcs.2023.354447.143181

Abstract

To date, no experimental investigations utilizing petrographic, XRF, ICP, or TL methodologies have been undertaken for the analysis of Sasanian and Early Islamic pottery in Western ... Read More

An Overview on Three Seasons of Archaeological Excavations in Jahangir Site, Ilam

Leila Khosravi

Volume 12, Issue 4 , May 2021, , Pages 77-94

Abstract

< p dir="ltr">Jahangir is one of the most prominent Sasanian sites In the west of Iran that excavated due to locating in the flood level of Kangir dam (Eyvan). The deficiency ... Read More

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Author = Khosravi, Leila

The Sheikh-Makan Monument in Ilam Province, Western Iran: Fire Temple or Water Mill?

Abstract

Mineralogy and Elemental Analysis of Sasanian-Early Islamic Potsherds from the Jahangir Archaeological Monument in Ilam Based on Petrography, XRF, ICP

Abstract

An Overview on Three Seasons of Archaeological Excavations in Jahangir Site, Ilam

Abstract