Journal of Sustainable Urban & Regional Development Studies (JSURDS)

Abstract Background and Aim: The elements of local architecture of each region are more influenced by environmental and climatic factors than any other factor. These factors, as a determining factor, have led to the emergence of different architectural styles in different regions; to the extent that their effect is visible in the entire urban context and even in individual buildings and interior architectural elements of spaces. The current research studies the effect of the environment and geographical components on the design and construction of old houses in the historical context of the city of Ardabil.
Methods and Material:This research is analytical-descriptive and based on the authors' survey in the historical context of the city of Ardabil and on library studies and field surveys.
Research questions: The research questions are formulated as follows: 1) What effect has the climate had on the location and layout of traditional houses and the urban space of Ardabil? What climatic and geographical factors have influenced the layout, physical space, and architectural components of historical houses in the city of Ardabil?
Results and Discussion: The results of the study show that architects have considered factors such as the direction of the sun's rays, humidity, temperature, and wind directions in designing urban spaces and the layout of buildings and spaces. Also, the overall shape of the courtyards, interior and exterior spaces, openings, and materials used are in harmony with the ecosystem of the studied area.

Abstract Abstract
Background and Objective: Azerbaijan, with its ancient name Atropatekan, located in the northwest of the Iranian plateau, is a geostrategic region with special capacities. The aim of this research is to study the importance of the position of Azerbaijan, especially Shiz (present-day Takht of Solomon) in the Sassanid period, and to examine the influential components of this importance.
Methodology: This research was conducted using the method of library studies and a descriptive-analytical approach. The materials are presented based on reliable historical texts and archaeological articles and reports.
Research Questions: The questions raised include the reasons for the Sassanids' greater attention to the geographical area of Azerbaijan; In other words, on what indicators did the Sassanid Empire strengthen and expand its sphere of power in Azerbaijan, especially Shiz (Ganzak)? What impact did these indicators have on the expansion and development of the Sassanid Empire?; Can geographical features, natural features, and proximity to borders be the reason for the importance of this region and religious centralization?
Results: The results of the research show that the geography and geopolitical borders of the region, the abundance of water resources, fertile soil and suitable agricultural base, mines, and transportation routes, were important potentials in Sasanian Azerbaijan and had indescribable strategic value. One of the reasons for the success of the Sasanian kings in various wars and conquests is the geo-strategic location of Azerbaijan. This is why the Sasanian victor adopted the strategy of reviving and establishing new cities along the trade routes from the northeast to the northwest borders; The construction of large water supply facilities during the Khosrow era, the strategy of concentrating power in Shiz and developing scientific centers in this city, the creation of defensive fortifications throughout Azerbaijan, the exploitation of rich mineral resources and the construction of iron smelting furnaces have strengthened the circle of power and the stability of the government in actualizing and exploiting these potentials.

Abstract Results and Discussion: The geographical conditions and ecosystem of the study area have played a significant role in the formation and expansion of settlements. Based on the description and analysis of the obtained maps, it can be said that the study areas are located adjacent to and along the path of water resources. The most important indicators of the sites in this region are: an altitude of 1355 to 1710 meters, moderate to poor vegetation cover, irrigated agricultural land use, location between communication routes and proximity to the modern village of Wind Kelkhoran, the suitable topography of the region considering the low numerical range of slopes and slope directions toward the northeast, east, southeast, and south, and the geological features of the region with volcanic rocks ranging from dacite to andesite. Given the importance of rural tourism in the sustainable development of the country and the diversity of historical sites in this region, it is necessary to pay serious attention to this area. Finally, it is recommended that the development infrastructure of this village, such as the construction of accommodation and communication spaces, the introduction of the village's capabilities thru appropriate advertising, and the restoration and revitalization of historical spaces to attract tourists and convert hand-dug spaces into places like the production and sale of local products and handicrafts, etc., are important strategies for tourism development in this region.

Abstract Background and Objective: This research presents a comparative study of the historical bridges of Ardabil and Isfahan during the Safavid era, focusing on the influence of each region’s geographical features on the architecture and construction of these bridges. During the Safavid period, both Ardabil and Isfahan were recognized as significant political, cultural, and economic centers of Iran. Bridges of this era, beyond their function as crossings, played a crucial role in enhancing communication, facilitating economic exchanges, and even serving military purposes. The design and construction of these bridges were influenced by geographical, climatic, topographic conditions, and available local resources. In this context, examining how architects and engineers responded to natural challenges reveals the degree of architectural adaptation to the environmental context. The findings of the study indicate that geographical differences have led to variations in the design, construction, and functions of the bridges. Bridges in Ardabil, suited to mountainous conditions and variable rivers, exhibit more robust structures, while bridges in Isfahan, influenced by the urban setting and the Zayandeh Roud River, feature more open, decorative designs with multifunctional roles.
Methodology: The research methodology is descriptive-analytical, and data has been collected through library sources, historical texts, architectural documents, and geographical analyses. The core of this analysis consists of a comparison of design, structural types, materials used, and the functions of the bridges.
Findings and Conclusion:  The main objective of this study is to compare the architecture and structure of prominent historical bridges in Ardabil and Isfahan and to analyze the impact of geographical factors such as climate, topography, and water resources on the formation of their form, materials, and functions. This research aims to identify architectural patterns adapted to environmental conditions through the study of selected examples.