Windcatchers of Yazd: An Overview of a Unique Persian Architectural Form
Yazd, located in the north of Iran, is an ancient city with a rich cultural heritage. One of the most iconic features of Yazd is its windcatchers, which have been used in local architecture for centuries. Windcatchers are a unique form of architecture designed to keep buildings cool in the harsh desert climate. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the history, design, and purpose of windcatchers in Yazd, as well as their current role in preserving the city’s cultural heritage.
What is a Windcatcher?
A windcatcher, also known as a “badgir” or “bâdgir” in Persian, is a traditional architectural element found throughout the Middle East. It consists of a tall tower-like structure with a large opening at the bottom and several smaller openings at the top. The purpose of the windcatcher is to capture and funnel the cooler air from outside into the building, creating a natural air-conditioning system. This is especially useful in hot and dry climates, where air-conditioning systems are not always available.
History of Windcatchers in Yazd
Windcatchers have been used in Yazd since the city’s founding in the 5th century BCE. They were first used to provide cool air to homes and public buildings, but they later grew in popularity and were used in more elaborate structures such as mosques and caravanserais. Windcatchers were also used to create artificial ponds and water reservoirs, and they were even used to power water mills.
Design and Purpose of Windcatchers
Windcatchers are designed to capture the cooler air from outside and bring it into the building. As air rises, it cools, and the windcatcher captures this cool air and funnels it down into the building. The windcatcher is usually designed with several smaller openings at the top and a large opening at the bottom. This allows the windcatcher to capture the air from outside and funnel it down into the building. The size and shape of the windcatcher can be adjusted to maximize its efficiency.
Windcatchers in Yazd Today
Today, windcatchers are still used in the architecture of Yazd. They are used to keep buildings cool in the hot desert climate and to conserve energy. They are also used to create artificial ponds and water reservoirs, as well as for decorative purposes. In addition, many of the windcatchers in Yazd are now preserved as part of the city’s cultural heritage.
Conclusion
Windcatchers are an iconic feature of Yazd’s architecture, and they are a unique example of Persian engineering and design. They have been used in the city for centuries, and they are still used today to keep buildings cool in the hot desert climate. In addition, many of the windcatchers in Yazd are now preserved as part of the city’s cultural heritage, which helps to ensure that this unique architectural form will be preserved for future generations.