Journal of Archaeological Studies

Archaeological Survey of the Water Supply System and Water Cycle at the ʿĀli Qāpu Palace of Isfahan

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

Elahe Rouhollahi 1
Ali Shojaee Esfahani 2
Saeed Ghaseminezhad 3

1 Ph.D.Candidate in Department of Archeology, Faculty of Conservation and Restoration, Isfahan University of Arts, Isfahan, Iran.

2 Assistant Professor, Department of Archeology, Faculty of Conservation and Restoration, Isfahan University of Arts, Isfahan, Iran.

3 Independent Researcher, Isfahan, Iran.

https://doi.org/10.22059/jarcs.2023.360435.143214
Abstract
The Āli Qāpu Palace, one of the grand constructions erected during the Safavid period (907-1135 AH) in Isfahan, stands out as one of the most renowned architectural marvels of its time. Despite garnering attention from experts in restoration, architecture, and art history, the palace has remained largely overlooked in archaeological standing bulding studies. A significant aspect contributing to this oversight has been the neglect of investigating its water supply system since its inception, leading to various unfounded assumptions. In this article, the authors aim to address this gap by conducting a comprehensive examination of the components and functioning of the water supply system of the Āli Qāpu Palace, drawing upon written, oral, and documentary sources pertaining to the remnants of its water supply structure. Through meticulous documentation of remaining evidence and scrutiny of primary sources, in conjunction with data obtained from restoration efforts, this study reveals a sophisticated understanding of the mechanics employed by the creators in establishing an efficient and integrated water supply system for the palace, particularly for transferring water to its upper floors. This system of water supply and circulation draws upon precedents set by machines developed in centuries preceding the Safavid era, which facilitated the transfer of water within the palace premises. Consequently, this research not only sheds light on the water supply facilities of the Āli Qāpu Palace and the intricate cycle of water transfer within its different sections but also lays the groundwork for understanding similar structures. By unraveling the mechanisms behind the palace's water supply, this study contributes to a deeper appreciation of the technological and engineering prowess of Safavid-era architects and engineers while offering valuable insights for future research into analogous architectural endeavors

Keywords

Isfahan
Safavid period
ʿĀli Qāpu palace
Water supply system
Mechanical science
Subjects
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  • Receive Date 06 June 2023
  • Revise Date 11 October 2024
  • Accept Date 02 November 2023

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