Vakil Bazaar, Historic marketplace in Shiraz, Iran.
Vakil Bazaar is a marketplace in Shiraz that runs through corridors with 74 tall barrel vaults and contains many shops selling traditional Persian goods, textiles, and spices. The entire structure is built from brick and stone in a regular layout, with each shop containing multiple levels and storage areas.
The structure was built in the 1760s under the reign of Karim Khan Zand and reflects architectural elements from both the Buyid and Zand periods of Iranian history. This blend of styles shows how different eras left their mark on the building.
The bazaar remains a place where merchants and shoppers meet, continuing traditional Persian trading customs passed down through generations. Vendors display their goods in the shops while visitors walk through the passages and interact with each other.
The structure sits about one meter above ground level to protect against moisture damage and provides covered walkways for visitors. The paths inside are relatively level, making walking through the passages easy.
The brick barrel vault ceiling was designed to naturally regulate heat and moisture without needing modern air conditioning. This old building technique keeps the spaces comfortable throughout the year.
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