Caravanserai as Semi-nodal Spatial-Economic Elements in the Urban Structure of Tabriz's Historical Bazaar: A Morphological Analysis Based on Spatial Syntax

Caravanserais within Tabriz's historic bazaar function as semi-nodal spatio-economic elements, reinforcing trade hierarchies and movement patterns without independently shaping them. This study, using a hybrid approach of morphological analysis and spatial syntax, reveals that while caravanserais are strategically located along highly integrated routes and near key intersections, they do not consistently coincide with syntactic nodes. The research provides a measurable interpretation of traditional bazaar systems, contributing to urban morphology and heritage studies by advocating for their sustainable integration into contemporary urban contexts.

Golkarian, S. (2026). Caravanserai as Semi-nodal Spatial-Economic Elements in the Urban Structure of Tabriz’s Historical Bazaar: A Morphological Analysis Based on Spatial Syntax. Proceedings of the International Conference of Contemporary Affairs in Architecture and Urbanism-ICCAUA, 9(Special Issue 1), 2610488. https://doi.org/10.38027/iccaua2026en0488