Revitalization of the Yengi Emam Caravanserai through an Adaptive Reuse Approach, with Emphasis on the Enhancement of Identity an‎d Lan‎dscape

10/7/2026 12:00:00 AM

Based on field observations, the preservation an‎d adaptive reuse of historical structures have become major concerns of Iran’s cultural heritage authorities in recent years. Among these valuable historical buildings, caravanserais stan‎d out as remarkable examples. The Safavid era marks a turning point in the history of Iran, during which Shah Abbas recognized the importance of commerce in the nation’s economic prosperity. He placed great emphasis on the development of roads an‎d roadside buildings, leading to the construction of numerous caravanserais known today as the “Shah Abbas Caravanserais.” Various factors such as urbanization an‎d consumerism have caused society to neglect existing historical structures, focusing merely on meeting contemporary needs. However, numerous examples demonstrate that by assigning appropriate new functions to historical buildings, not only can these structures be revitalized—thereby preserving our cultural identity an‎d authenticity—but significant contributions can also be made to environmental sustainability. Caravanserais, in particular, are buildings that can be successfully revitalized through careful interventions an‎d adaptive modifications. By assigning functions that align with their original purposes an‎d considering their contextual setting, they can once again become active elements interacting harmoniously with their surrounding sites. In this regard, a cultural–residential function appears to be a suitable an‎d compatible choice, resonating with the historical use of caravanserais. The aim of the proposed project is to preserve the historical building while providing services needed by the surrounding urban fabric. Given the location of the caravanserai—situated along the ancient Silk Road—it can be classified as an intercity caravanserai. The building is located on the Karaj–Qazvin route, in the Savojbolagh region.

باززنده‌سازي , استفاده مجدد تطبيقي , ميراث معماري , كاروانسراي ينگي امام , هويت , منظر

Revitalization , Adaptive Reuse , Architectural Heritage , Yengi Imam Caravanserai , Identity , Landscape

zahra eftekhari

mehdi khakzand