Investigating the role of the biological component of Wombphilia in the formation of architectural organs

Volume 13, Issue 48
Summer 2025
Pages 26-37

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Associate Professor, Department of Architecture, Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning, Tabriz Islamic Art University, Iran.

2 Ph.D. Candidate in Architecture, Department of Architecture, Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning, Tabriz Islamic Art University, Iran.

Abstract
Certain concepts in the human psychosomatic heritage have deep roots, transcending time and place. Spaces and architectural works that arise from these concepts often exhibit a greater durability. One such concept is "wombphillia," which refers to maternal values and, according to its interpretation, has developed as a consistent characteristic throughout the architecture of various eras. Analyzing this concept can lead to a more comprehensive understanding of the architectural legacy and the factors influencing it. This study investigates the influence of the "wombphillia" component on architectural structures and seeks to answer the question of how the embodiment of "wombphillia" and maternal values manifests in architecture and in which architectural forms it can be traced. Through an interdisciplinary approach, the present paper introduces "wombphillia" as one of humanity's most ancient biological and psychological desires and attempts to explore its origins in the development and organization of architecture. The research method relies on logical reasoning and analysis of library data; based on the research objective, concepts are transferred from theoretical domains to architecture within a systematic logical framework. The findings suggest that the preference for and pursuit of cavernous spaces, evidenced by the existence and abundance of rock-cut structures and subterranean shelters across various regions, extends beyond mere habitation considerations and can be rooted in a biological and instinctual drive known as "wombphillia." Driven by this instinct, selecting cavernous spaces represents a kind of biological destiny for humans—a characteristic to which they have become accustomed and find comfort in. Even today, with technological advancements enabling the construction of expansive spaces, the desire for spaces that embrace him as in his biological past is still there.

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