A New Look at Unique Characteristics of Iran's Rock-Cut Architecture Settlements (Case Study: The World Heritage Site of Meymand Village, Shahre Babak)

the rock-cut architecture settlement is an essential yet little known type of vernacular architecture whose nature is different from what we understand by the term “architecture”. Since common building materials are not used in this architecture and it enjoys a different process of creation, rock-cut architecture seems rather contradictory compared to other types of vernacular architecture. Building space through hollowing out solid rock is the most essential skill used in this architecture. Iran hosts valuable examples of rock-cut architecture with religious, funeral, service, and residential functions. Cold regions of the country host the majority of rock-cut houses and settlements since their architectural framework is compatible with harsh climatic conditions. This research seeks to answer the question what differentiates the rock-cut architecture from other types of vernacular architecture. To recognize the unique characteristics of rock-cut architecture, the researchers chose Meymand village as the largest complex of rock-cut houses. A total number of 60 buildings were selected in an experimental process, and their lesser-studied characteristics, including design, livelihood and environmental ones were studied. A comparison of these characteristics with similar characteristics of traditional architecture reveals dramatic differences between them. The findings in the area of special climatic design standards and technologies not only give us a better insight into the rock-cut architecture but also contribute to set some standards for design and construction of rock-cut buildings in the present era.