Gaz Caravanserai
Gaz Caravanserai (Persian: کاروانسرای گز) located in Borkhar County in 17 km north of Isfahan along the Isfahan-Tehran highway, dates back to the Safavid era, likely built during Shah Abbas I's reign. It is one of the largest caravanserais in the region (83 × 96 meters) and features four corner towers, stables, storage areas, and a four-iwan courtyard design. Many travelers, including James Morier (1809), have mentioned it. In recent years, it has been repurposed as a military garrison, restricting public access. Historians note its architectural resemblance to Vandadeh Caravanserai, which has an inscription from Shah Abbas I’s time, supporting its Safavid origins. The site was abandoned during the Qajar era, with postal relay stations replacing its function, though no traces of them remain today.[1]
Tilework
[edit]Gaz Caravanserai is renowned for its exquisite Safavid-era tilework, featuring intricate designs and vibrant colors. These artistic decorations enhance the building’s beauty and showcase the craftsmanship of its architects and artists.[2]
UNESCO World Heritage
[edit]On September 17, 2023, during the 45th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, this caravanserai, along with 53 other caravanserais, was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.[3][4]
References
[edit]- ^ ""Gaz Caravanserai with 4 Towers: A Historic Structure Without an Inscription"". www.mehrnews.com. Retrieved 2025-01-02. Containing text in Persian
- ^ "Abbasi Caravanserai of Gaz: A Historical and Architectural Attraction of the Safavid Era". www.mehrnews.com. Retrieved 2025-01-02. Containing text in Persian
- ^ "Persian Caravanserais Inscribed on UNESCO's World Heritage List / In table row 17th (Sāeen Caravanserai)". www.surfiran.com. Retrieved 2025-01-29.
- ^ ""The Caravanserais of Iran registered as a World Heritage Site / 54 caravanserais from 24 provinces listed in UNESCO."". www.irna.com. Retrieved 2025-01-29.