Iranian Journal for the History of Islamic Civilization

Iranian Journal for the History of Islamic Civilization

The Formation, Development, and Physical Elements of the Sirjan (Saeedabad) Bazaar within the Spatial Context of the City from the Qajar Period to the Present

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors
1 Assistant Professor, Department of Archaeology, Faculty of Archaeology and Museum, Shiraz University of Arts, Shiraz, Iran
2 PhD Student in Islamic Archaeology, Department of Archaeology, Faculty of Literature and Humanities, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
3 Assistant Professor, Department of Archaeology, Faculty of Archaeology and Museum, Shiraz University of Arts, Shiraz, Iran)
Abstract
The bazaar of Sirjan (Saeedabad), one of the most important economic centers in southeastern Iran, has undergone significant transformations since its formation, largely due to its strategic location. Given its prominent role as the backbone of the city, it is essential to examine its historical background, its transformations, and the factors driving those changes. This study investigates the processes of formation and development, the factors affecting transformations, and the role of the bazaar in the spatial organization of Sirjan. It addresses the following questions: What transformations has the Sirjan bazaar complex undergone? What factors have influenced these transformations? How can its role in the spatial organization of Sirjan be evaluated? The research employs a descriptive-analytical method, drawing on library research and field surveys (observation, interviews, and documentation). The findings indicate that the Sirjan bazaar has experienced diverse physical-functional transformations across three historical periods (Qajar, Pahlavi, and contemporary). The city’s strategic location on commercial routes from the Persian Gulf to central and eastern Iran has been the most significant factor in the formation and prosperity of the bazaar. Featuring a checkerboard pattern and comprising commercial, religious, educational, and service elements, the bazaar has served not only as the economic hub but also as the center of socio-political transformations in the city.
Keywords
Subjects

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Volume 59, Issue 1
(Spring & Summer 2026)
September 2026
Pages 272-303

  • Receive Date 09 August 2026
  • Revise Date 26 August 2026
  • Accept Date 06 October 2026