Reidentification of the Historical Evolution in Yazd Vaqt-o-sā’at Square From the beginning to the end of the Pahlavi era

Vaght o Saat Square is one of the oldest and most important historical squares in Yazd. This square was located within the Rokniyeh school complex in the eighth century A.H.. Due to the famous observation of Vaght o Saat, this name has still remained on this square. For this reason, most of the research that has been done on Vaght o Saat square focuses on the historic background of the square in the eighth-century A.H, while in the current situation, none of the elements surrounding the square belong to the eighth century AH, but pertain to more contemporary periods.

Introducing historical evolution and layers of Vaght o Saat square

In the data collection section, comprehensive data on the history of the square is collected by using a mix-method, referring to various references such as local history, contemporary historical research, field evidence, the archive of historical photographs, aerial photographs and especially using oral references. In the analysis section, through applying descriptive-analytical method and relying on the interpretation of historical texts and documents, the history and evolution of the Vaght o Saat square are explained from the outset of the Pahlavi era to its end.

The results of this study show that the oldest element enclosing the square in its current state is the water reservoir of Vaght o Saat. Also, most of the buildings surrounding the square belong to the Qajar era. In the Pahlavi era, important developments took place in the square, which are: 1) Construction of two buildings in the first Pahlavi era on the north and south sides 2) Construction of a building in the second Pahlavi era on the south side 3) Reconstruction of Afshar school 4) Interventions in Mesgarnejad house 5) Restoration of the tomb of Seyyed Rokn al-Din 7) Discovery of the Zarch Payab and its reburial 8) Renovation of Kalak`s façade.