Persian Gardens Meanings Symbolism and Design

LANDSCAPE ONLINE 46:1-19 (2016), DOI 10.3097/LO.201646

Leila Mahmoudi Farahani*, Bahareh Motamed, Elmira Jamei

Deakin University, School of Architecture and Built Environment, 1 Gheringhap St, Geelong; 3220, Australia

Abstract

Culture and identity in a society can be represented in the architecture and the meanings intertwined with it.

In this sense, the architecture and design are the interface for transferring meaning and identity to the nation

and future generations. Persian gardens have been evolved through the history of Persian Empire in regard to

the culture and beliefs of the society. This paper aims to investigate the patterns of design and architecture

in Persian gardens and the meanings intertwined with their patterns and significant elements such as water

and trees. Persian gardens are not only about geometries and shapes; but also manifest different design

elements, each representing a specific symbol and its significance among the society. This paper seeks to

explore Persian gardens in terms of their geometric structure, irrigation system, network construction and

pavilions alongside design qualities such as hierarchy, symmetry, centrality, rhythm and harmony. In the

second stage, the paper investigates the fundamental symbols and their philosophy in the creation of Persian

gardens and in relation to the architecture and design.

 

 

Download PDF