Journal of Art and Civilization of the Orient

An Analysis of the Defensive Features of the Falak-ol-Aflak Castle From the Perspective of Passive Architectur Defense Principles

https://doi.org/10.22034/jaco.2024.419191.1354
Volume 12, Issue 46
Winter 2025
Pages 24-35
Journal of Art and Civilization of the Orient

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

Hamed Hayaty 1
Zainab Baharvand 2

1 Assistant Professor, Department of Architecture, University of Qom, Iran.

2 Ph.D. Student in Architecture, Faculty of Art and Architecture, Ahvaz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Iran.

Abstract
Falak-ol-Aflak Castle is one of the most prominent historical remains from the Sassanian era. It was used as a military fortress or a secure sanctuary. However, this study aims to examine the specific architectural structure and tall walls of the castle and seeks to answer the question of which passive defense components exist in this castle and how they are manifested in its spatial organization. The objective is to introduce the components and features of passive defense in Falak-ol-Aflak Castle and explore how these components are applied in its spatial design and architectural elements. Relevant data regarding the principles and foundations of passive defense were collected through documentary methods, while the architectural features of the castle were documented and recorded through fieldwork. The results indicate that the spatial organization of the castle has incorporated factors such as facilitating the provision of vital needs during emergencies, decentralized design of residential areas, enclosed and defensive fabric, compactness, and the creation of escape routes. Additionally, the winding passages and labyrinthine paths are examples of the principle of deception in their spatial organization. In terms of architectural elements, measures such as angled access to interior spaces, elevated control rooms for monitoring movement, lowered courtyard levels compared to the streets, and structural reinforcement through connection and adjacency of buildings have been considered to reduce vulnerability and ensure the safety of residents in Falak-ol-Aflak Castle. The inward focus in the architecture of the castle units aligns with the principle of deception in the castle’s architectural elements.

Keywords

Khorramabad
Castle
Falak-ol-Aflak
Architectural structure
Passive defense
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