Recognition of the Principles of Spatial Hierarchy in Traditional Mosques of Iran and its Analysis by Space Syntax Method (Case study: Mosques of Shiraz)

Architecture is a tool for encountering human needs, and in this regard, mosques, as one of the manifestations of Islamic architecture, have a distinct role in meeting human spiritual needs. Mosques over time have unified principles for creating hierarchies. This research seeks to recognize the hierarchy of the mosques of Shiraz in which the obtained information can be applied in contemporary mosques. Accordingly, first, by referring to architectural texts and experts' views, the principle of spatial hierarchy is recognized and then the scientific definition of the word and its foundations are found. For this purpose, a descriptive-analytical method is applied to obtain theoretical foundations; furthermore, the method of space method with the help of Depthmap software was also used to analyze four mosques. The research findings express the view that the mosques of shiraz behold public spaces such as the courtyards in first degree and other areas that were more cloistered and are classified as second spaces of accessibility in which ordinary people may have been unaware of. Correspondingly, if it was possible to create two entrances, they were made from two completely diverse places to the point that the mosques connected neighborhoods.

1. Recognizing the principles of spatial hierarchy in traditional Iranian mosques. 2. Analyzing the spatial hierarchy of Shiraz mosques with the method of space syntax.

Research questions: 

1. What factors have influenced the shaping of the spatial structure of traditional Iranian mosques? 2. What is the spatial hierarchy of Shiraz mosques based on?