Abstract

Traditional Iranian architecture has always been praised for its elegant decorative features, especially its ornamental vaulted ceilings appearing in houses, mosques, and bazaars. Besides their ornamental characteristics, some scholars believe these structures were built by master builders who were equipped with the knowledge of geomancy, astrology, and the human system. Authors’ previous studies on the traditional system of architecture of Iran and its connection to Indian Vastu Shastra further reveal that the esoteric concepts and symbols such as chakras that are popular elements of Indian traditional architecture also appear in traditional Iranian built space. Having the knowledge of the human aura and its chakras and the similarities of concepts in traditional architecture of India and Iran, the authors believe the decorative vaulted ceilings of traditional Iranian houses, besides their structural considerations and physical functions, follow the concept of mandalas and human chakras. Case studies on three well-known houses of Kashan prove this hypothesis.