1.

Pick three structures in Isfahan from different time periods and describe them in a complete
paragraph. In addition to general details, be sure in this paragraph to explain their architectural and
societal functions (what purpose did they serve), how they fit into their historical period, and what drew
you to these particular buildings.
Eivan The Portico: This structure is beautiful. It contains many different colors and angles. Looking
directly at it, you have the effect of separation from what is above and what is below and also containing a
defining point on earth through the sides. Its used to aide man in finding his position between himself and
his Deity in relation to his space. This concept comes from two other forms, the Talar and Mehrab. The
Eivan as a form can be traced from the Achamaenid tradition through Arsacid palaces to the Sassanid
period, of which it was used extensively.
Talar The Verandah: The Talar also was created during the Achamaenid origins. However, they only
appear under the Safavids and in secular buildings. The Talar acts a s a connection between a home and
the garden. It also serves as protection to those who sit underneath it from the light and heat from the
sun. The Eivan is represented as divine might, and the Talar contains emphasis of divine protection. I
love how the Talar is open with tall pillars. It gives the sense of being in a building, but youre also able to
enjoy the outside.
Mehrab: This structure is purely an Islamic phenomenon. However, it is closely related in form and
purpose to the Eivan. The Mehrab is a direct connection between man and God and is emphasized by
the Thuluth script around the edges and the focal point. Thuluth script was traditionally used for sacred
writings and to add significance to inscriptions. The Mehrab is used to focus the attention on God, rather
than on mans place in relation to God, as the Eivan does. The Mehrabs design is darker and more
metallic. It is beautiful, but it removes the eye catching patterns like the Eivan has. I believe that is the
case so that when man is here, man can focus on God and not on other materialistic things.

2. Again in a complete paragraph write about how the architecture of Salt Lake City compares to Isfahan.
Include what is similar and what is different about the buildings of the two cities. Are there structures in
Salt Lake City that would provide insight into American culture and tradition (not just Utah culture)? {that
is: what would a foreigner looking at our buildings on a website be able to understand about Americans
from their buildings. Think a bit more than usual about these questions. I want you to act like
archaeologists or anthropologists and try to think about what our buildings tell about ourselves}[If you are
outside of Utah, you may use another large U.S. city near your location].
I think the biggest difference between the buildings in Salt Lake City and in Isfahan is that the buildings in
Salt Lake City are more modern with straight lines and geometries. They are built for purpose and for
strength. Some of the buildings do contain designs and structures from their mason roots, but theyre not
indicative of any religious history. The only exclusion to that perception would be for the Salt Lake LDS
Temple. The LDS temple has many religious sentiment on the grounds and with the building itself.
The layout of Salt Lake City does originate from the LDS Temple. As such, all the street numbers
increase in size as you move away from it. It gives the impression to become closer to God; one must go
closer to the center of the city. The farther away you are from God, the longer itll take to return.

The buildings in Isfahan all seem to have some sort of religious feeling about them. Theyre beautiful and
constructed with glass, tiles and arches. They have meaning to the buildings and have designated
purposes. The domes on top with their spires give the perception that God is always there and is
protecting each building and those in the buildings. Its almost as if the top of each structure is opening up
its arms in praise to Allah and asking for protection.
From navigating through the pictures of Isfahan, it appears that the buildings and gardens are all
connected. I feel that the city, itself, is to be used as a place of gathering and of warship. They all gently
flow from one building to another and are greeted with beautiful arches, gateways, and gardens. I get the
impression that the city of Isfahan is more for the people and for warship; whereas the city of Salt Lake
City is used more for regular daily activities.