An Examination of the Architectural Structure and Function of Jokhāh Caravanserais in Tabas

Abstract
Iran’s strategic location, coupled with the presence of economic opportunities, has resulted in the establishment and development of a well-structured communication network in the past. The numerous caravanserais and robāts, serving as roadside inns within the geographical and historical context of Iran, highlight the significance of this network. The eastern region of Iran, acting as a key commercial route during the Islamic era, boasts a plethora of architectural marvels in terms of roads and the buildings along the routes. In 2016, a study was carried out in Jokhāh Village, situated in the Montazerieh district of Tabas, to investigate the archaeology of the area. The research specifically looked into two caravanserai buildings, conducting comparative studies to analyze their architectural design and function. Accordingly, the questions of the study are as follows: 1- What is the history and construction procedure of the two Jokhah caravanserais? 2- How should the function of these two buildings be evaluated relative to the other rural elements? This research serves as a fundamental investigation grounded in historical analysis. Data collection was conducted through field studies and the library method. Findings suggest that, from a historiographical standpoint, the older robāt of Jokhāh can be associated with two middle periods, while the younger caravanserai is linked to the Qajar Period. The architectural configuration and location of the old Robāt classify it as an out-of-town roadside edifice, while the younger one could be identified as an in-town building.
Keywords: Robat, Karavanserai, Architectural Structure, Function, Jokhah Village, Tabas.
Introduction
In ancient times, the Iranians established a well-organized and interconnected communication network through the construction of roads. Along these routes, they also established designated areas and shelters, serving as stopping points and providing comfort for caravans. The presence of these caravan routes necessitated the provision of various services to support the caravans during their journeys. Among these services, accommodation was of utmost importance. Caravanserais were specifically designed to cater to the needs of travelers, offering essential supplies and acting as a hub for cultural, social, economic, and trade interactions in different locations and regions.
Discussion
During the Islamic periods, the formation, development, and expansion of caravanserais were influenced by various factors, including religious, military, social, and economic aspects. “Despite being constructed for the same purpose of providing shelter to caravans and travelers, the caravanserais varied in design and layout due to differences in plans, forms, climatic needs, and the preferences of the builders” (Labaf Khaniki et al., 2013: 48). However, in the region of Khorasan, several buildings that were situated roadside were referred to as Robāts. These robāts served as resorts, like inns, but with a simpler architectural design. When it comes to both quantity and quality, the most exquisite caravanserais in Iran can be found in the plains and desert areas (Ghobadian 1998: 346). The Jokhāh caravanserais, due to their historical and geographical location, are situated in Khorasan and are positioned along the roads leading to Tabas. These caravanserais are near the city of Tabas and hold significant economic and commercial importance within its sphere of influence. Indeed, the establishment of caravanserais in strategic locations within Montazerieh Village has played a significant role in the development and sustainability of rural settlements, as evidenced by the case of Jokhāh in Tabas. This study aims to analyze the architectural features of these two mentioned buildings and explore their functionality across different historical periods. The lack of detailed information on the construction dates and architectural characteristics of the Robāts in Jokhāh highlights the importance of this research.
The design of the Robāt of Jokhāh is heavily influenced by the layout of a central courtyard, which is surrounded by symmetrical rooms on all four sides. Furthermore, the stables are strategically positioned along the southern side of the structure, situated behind the rooms. This architectural arrangement bears a striking resemblance to the caravanserais found in Central Asia, drawing inspiration from the forms and positioning of stables seen in buildings like Rivad Bostān in Naein and Chahār Howz in Tabas from the Safavid Period. Additionally, the comparison between the Jokhāh’s Robāts and Robāt-e Khoshāb along the Tabas-Ferdows Road highlights the influence of the Qajar Period’s designs. Rooms in Jokhāh’s Robāts, such as Robāt-e Karim and Aliabād Caravanserai of Qom, directly face the courtyard. This architectural style, which emphasizes the low height of the walls, lack of porch, simplicity in design, and use of local materials, can be considered as a representation of the Khorasani style. Based on the comparison of physical elements and pottery findings, the construction of these buildings can be dated back to the fourth to ninth centuries AH. The second building, the Jokhāh’s Caravanserai, the largest building in Jokhāh Village, is situated in the Southwest-Northeast direction. Its original design is comparable to Safavid caravanserais like Isfahak-e Tabas and Gore Caravanserai, as well as the newer Khan Caravanserais, particularly the Kalmarz, which belong to the late Qajar Period. This building is reminiscent of Safavid caravanserais by its symmetrical plan, porch courtyards, and the use of stables with nine domes in the corners of the building. Additionally, the stables extend beyond the passenger room and windbreaks are utilized in the royal porch. These influential models are based on the Isfahani style and exhibit an introverted design. Although the Jokhāh Caravanserai was built during the Qajar Period, it clearly incorporates elements from the Safavid caravanserais. The transformation and development of the out-of-town buildings in the Jokhāh region, represented by two Robāts and caravanserai, not only demonstrates architectural techniques but also reflects the economic and security conditions of the area.
Conclusion
These two buildings share several architectural similarities, including a rectangular plan, a level entrance with the building wall, a courtyard, and an axis of symmetry in the division of limbs. They also both exhibit domed and arched coverings and are constructed using ecological materials. However, they differ in size and other architectural features that set them apart from each other. The orientation of the caravanserai in Jokhāh is based on the region’s weather conditions, indicating a more precise design compared to the Robāt-e Qaleh. In the Qajar Period, during the development of Jokhāh Village, careful and purposeful urban planning was employed in locating the aqueduct water source and its transfer through canals to the Jokhāh Caravanserai, mosque, and bath. By analyzing the architectural elements and comparing the design and structure of these buildings with others of similar nature, it can be inferred that the Jokhāh Caravanserai was constructed in the middle of the Qajar Period, while the Robāt-e Qaleh of Jokhāh dates to the Middle Islamic centuries. Finally, the primary reasons for the establishment and positioning of these two caravanserais in Jokhāh Village were providing security, residential provisions, and facilitating trade.