Middle Aisle, Compound


One of the specifications of Persian Architecture is compound and middle aisle.

Caravanserais, schools and mosques have mostly an aisle or central yard. Middle Aisle had played two important roles:

1- Building was separated from noise and busy surrounding of the daily business, by setting and centralizing inner space.

2- Provided the need of people to a place of washing ablution and repose, loading and packing in compound of Caravansary.

Its plan was usually rectangular or quadrate, but sometimes it was built through round or multilateral plans.

Middle Aisle was a way of access to "Shabestan" (part of a mosque designed for sleeping or prayer) and auxiliary parts like staircase and also to rooms with veranda on each side.