Reconstruction of the Past Architectural works in Timurid Period

Subject Areas : The Journal of Islamic History and Civilisation

ولی الله کاوسی ¹ (ندارد)

Received: 2010-09-24 Accepted : 2011-01-05 Published : 2011-02-20

Keywords: Reconstruction, Timurid period, restoration, architecture, Renovation,

Abstract :

Restoration, reconstruction, renovation and rehabilitation of themonuments and architectural of the past is a notable aspect ofarchitectural course in the Timurid period. The pioneer of this coursewas Timur (Tamerlane) himself. He spent much wealth for theconstruction, and rebuilt some of the remaining buildings. His son andsuccessor, Shahrukh, overtook his father in the architectural patronageand reconstruction. In the reign of Shahrukh, the princes and courtiersgot relatively authority for restoration. After Shahrukh, this processwas continued by Timurid kings like Mirza Abu’l-Qasim Babur andSultan Abu-Sa’id. Sultan Husayn Bayqara and his vizier, Ali-ShirNava’i rebuilt some of the previous buildings. Many of the officers, aswell as rich people out of the court, increased buildings throughvarious constructions. In comparison with the vast architecturalactivities in Timurid period, what is remained is little. However, theTimurid historians’ reports can compensate the shortage ofinformation relatively. It seems that this part of Timurid architecturehas been neglected by scholars.