Khargerd madrese

These two short films (both with sound) explore the Ghiyathiyya Madrese at Khargerd in NE Iran. The madrese (religious school) was constructed in 1438-45 and is a showpiece of Timurid decorative art: with six different sorts of tiles, some elegantly geometrical wallpainting and amazing plaster effects in the muqarnas (stalactite vaulting).

Siahkuh and Haramserail

The complex water system includes several large water ‘tanks’ – as shown here, in the 1970s. Now, the base of this tank has been cleared, revealing larger paving stones. [SA.M.14]

Siahkuh and Haramserail

This modern photograph shows how much of the (unrestored) Haramserail is holding up well in the harsh desert conditions. Some small areas of fancy plaster are still visible, suggesting that it was originally decorated. [SA.M.11]

Siahkuh and Haramserail

The Haramserail is said to have been the facilities for Shah Abbas’ wives and children, when he was hunting at Qasr-i Bahram. It is constructed from a mix of baked bricks and mud intermingled with large local stones, and the layout is completely unlike most other caravanserais. Here it is, in the 1970s. The central …

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Siahkuh and Haramserail

Morton photographed some of the many stonemasons’ marks. These are still visible now. Kleiss has recorded fourteen different marks. Although it is not clear if these are quarrying or builders’ marks, they still make a distinctive connection with a small group of non-elite men from 400 years ago. [SA.M.8]

Siahkuh and Haramserail

Qasr-i Bahram is now used as a work-base for rangers working in the restricted-entry Kavir National Park. This modern photograph shows the northwest iwan, with the (restored) arched entry to the underground stabling. [SA.M.7]