Study of the Architecture of the Historical Iftikhar al-Islam Tabatabaei bath in Boroujerd and its Compliance with the Principles of Iranian-Islamic Medicine
Tārīkh-i pizishkī i.e., Medical History,
Vol. 17 (1404),
6 May 2025
,
Page 1-15
https://doi.org/10.22037/mhj.v17i1.46805
Abstract
Background and Aim: Since ancient times, there has been a close connection between medical knowledge and architecture in the construction of traditional buildings such as baths. The Iftikhar al-Islam Tabatabaei bath is one of the historical baths in Boroujerd city, built during the Qajar period by Iftikhar al-Islam Tabatabaei Nabavi Boroujerdi. This research aims to study the architecture of this bath and its compliance with the principles of Persian medicine.
Methods: This descriptive-analytical research was conducted using library documents and field studies.
Ethical Considerations: In this research, the ethical aspects of library study including the authenticity of the text, honesty and trustworthiness have been observed.
Results: The findings indicate that Iftikhar al-Islam Tabatabaei bath consists of four main sections or chambers, which are, in order: The first chamber (cold and dry), the second chamber (cold and moist), the third chamber (hot and moist) and the fourth chamber (hot and dry) based on Iranian traditional medicine. The components of the bath include the entrance, sarbineh (dressing hall), miandar (transitional space), restroom, garmkhaneh (hot room), sardab (cool underground area), khazineh (hot water pool) and the furnace. In the construction of this building, the fundamental principles of Iranian architecture, namely "people-centeredness, avoidance of excess, structural integrity, self-sufficiency, and inwardness" has been observed. The depictions of birds and flowers on the tilework in the sarbineh walls induce a sense of relaxation, warmth and moisture in individuals, while the presence of cold water in the sardab helps adjust body temperature to match that of the sarbineh space.
Conclusion: The Iftikhar al-laslam Tabatabaei bath, as an architectural and medicinal masterpiece from the Qajar period, not only exemplifies the integration of Iranian architectural art and medicine but also plays a significant role in preserving the health and well-being of individuals.
- Islamic Architecture
- Persian Medicine
- Bath
- Qajar Period
- Iftekhar al-Islam Bath
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References
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