Explaining the Experience of Spatial Quality of Jame Mosques in East Azerbaijan Based on the Space Atmosphere Theory

Recreating the experienced spatial quality in the traditional architecture of Iran depends on the accurate and deep understanding of those spatial qualities and analyzing their elements, components, and spaces. One of the most significant factors in this regard is explaining the experience of the spatial quality in the space users’ minds. It becomes more important in mosques that are for praying and the manifestation of the sacred affair. The present study aimed to analyze the compatibility of the spatial quality of Jameh mosques in East Azerbaijan with the components and indicators of the architectural space atmosphere theory to regenerate its spatial quality. The main research question is how the spatial quality of five Jameh mosques in East Azerbaijan can be analyzed based on the nine components of the space atmosphere theory. The research approach was qualitative, and the data analysis method was the hierarchal analysis and deductive-comparative method. The data collected from the library studies and field research, such as experiencing space and interviewing with users, were evaluated and weighted using Depth Map software and Expert Choice. The results showed that Tabriz Jameh Mosque (0.288) had the highest quality and strongest space atmosphere, and Sarab Jameh Mosque ranked the next. In static qualities, the body of architecture, proportions of the elements and components, and the solidity of the building (0.347) were the most important elements in creating space atmosphere. In dynamic criteria, light on things (0.412) were the most important elements, and temperature of space and levels of intimacy were the next influential factors. It can be concluded that Jameh Mosques of East Azerbaijan have heavy solidity, generally closed spaces, and warm colors due to the use of red bricks made from the red soil of Azerbaijan and solar radiation on their surface to create warm physical and sensory temperature and provide a pleasant quality for prayers in the religious ceremonies.