The Doulat Abad Garden, located in the city of Yazd in central Iran, is an impressive example of Persian garden design and engineering. Built during the Afshariyeh period, specifically in 1125 AH by Mohammad Taghi Khan Bafghi, who was the head of the Khavanin dynasty of Yazd, this garden is a testament to the ingenuity and skills of Iranian architects and engineers.

History of the Doulat Abad Garden

According to historical records, Taqi Khan first constructed a Qanat with a length of 65 km and brought water from Mehriz to Yazd the current location of the Doulat Abad Garden. The Qanat was a system of underground tunnels and channels that were used to transport water from a source to a settlement or garden. It was an important technological advancement that allowed for the development of agriculture and settlement in arid regions like central Iran.

Taqi Khan then built the Doulat Abad Governorate Complex (Dar al-Hakumah), which includes the garden, several buildings, ponds, fountains, and gardens with pomegranate and vines.

Layout and functionality

The garden is made up of two parts: the inner and outer (Jelokhan) gardens. From a functional typology point of view, Doulat Abad is a “residence-state” garden. The outer garden was the site of government ceremonies, sports ceremonies, and city administration, while the Inner Garden was a private sector and the residence of the complex. In the gardens of the settlement government, the inner arena was completely distinguished from other areas and even assigned a doorman or a hajabi to control it.

The Inner Division

The Inner Division of the Doulat Abad Garden was the residence of the ruler and his family and included several buildings such as the Octagonal Summer Wind Tower, Harem,  Kitchen, Observation Tower, Private Water Reservoir, and Summer and Winter Stables.

The Octagonal Summer Wind Tower is particularly noteworthy. It is a two-story tower with a dome-shaped roof, which was designed to catch the wind and funnel it into the building, creating a natural air conditioning system that was effective even on the hottest days of the year.

The Harem was a private area of the garden reserved for the ruler and his family and was accessible only to a select few.

Features of the Doulat Abad Garden

One of the most impressive and unique features of the garden is the network of windcatchers, or badgirs, which were designed to cool the air inside the pavilion and other buildings. The pavilion at Doulat Abad Garden has a set of windcatchers that are among the largest in Iran, and they are a testament to the ingenuity and skill of Iranian architects and engineers.

The garden is also home to a variety of trees and flowers that are native to Iran, including beautiful cypress trees and pomegranate trees. The central pool and the intricate network of water channels and fountains that run throughout the property create a soothing and relaxing atmosphere. Take part in our guided tours to Doulat Abad Garden, providing you a nice visit with a deeper understanding of this garden’s history and architecture.

Last word

The Doulat Abad Garden is an impressive and beautiful example of Persian garden design and engineering, and it is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Iran. The Qanat system used in the garden’s construction is an important part of Iranian history and technological advancement and allowed for the development of settlement and agriculture in arid regions. Whether you are interested in the history of Iran, the art of Persian garden design, or simply want to see one of the most beautiful gardens in the world, the Doulat Abad Garden is a must-visit destination. With its unique features, rich history, and beautiful natural surroundings, the Doulat Abad Garden is sure to be a highlight of any trip to Yazd.

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