Amir Chakhmagh Complex

The Amir Chakhmagh Complex (مجموعه امیرچخماق) is a prominent structure in Yazd province, noted for its symmetrical sunken alcoves. The complex was built in the 15th century and is located on a square of the same name, named after Amir Jalal ed-Din Chakhmakh, a governor of Yazd under the Timurid dynasty (15th–16th century CE). The complex was designed to serve as a multifunctional center for social, religious, and administrative activities within the city. Originally the complex encompassed a marketplace, a congregational mosque, a caravanserai for travelers, a Tekyeh for religious gatherings, water storage facilities, and a well providing cold water. The use of locally sourced materials such as adobe bricks, clay, and wood further enhances the connection between the architecture of the complex and its natural surroundings.

The Amir Chakhmagh Square, named after its founder, became the heart of the complex. Surrounding the square are other structures that contribute to the architectural ensemble of the complex, including a mosque, a religious school, and a bathhouse. The square’s prominent structure has a three-storey elaborate façade of symmetrical sunken arched alcoves. This façade is adorned with intricate geometric patterns, delicate stalactite carvings, and calligraphic inscriptions. In the center of it are two very tall minarets containing a spiral staircase.

One of the most notable features of the complex is the Hussainieh, a congregational hall located behind the façade. Characterized by its large portal and spacious interior, the Hussainieh has been a focal point for religious gatherings and ceremonies, particularly during the month of Muharram. The architecture of this space is designed to accommodate large crowds while maintaining a sense of solemnity and reverence.

The complex was established on the north side of a mosque called the Old Mosque, known today as Amir Chakhmagh Mosque. The mosque was also founded by Amir Chakhmagh between 1418 and 1438. The same year as the mosque was inaugurated, Haj Qanbar Jahanshahi, who was the subsequent governor, constructed a bazaar and caravanserai at the sides of the square. At the entrance to the mosque there is a carved inscription in the Naskh script, revealing a deed relevant to the endowment; and on the eastern entrance to the mosque there is a tiled epigraph with the Thuluth script. The dome is adorned with inscriptions in the cuneiform or Kufic script. An interesting feature of the Amir Chakhmagh Mosque is the presence of two separate prayer halls: a summer hall and a winter hall, designed for use in accordance with the seasonal climate. The mosque was added to the Iran National Heritage List on December 7, 1935.

The Amir Chakhmagh Tekyeh is a prominent structure within the Complex. The tekyeh typically features multiple tiers or terraces, offering tiered viewing for the assembled crowds. Historically, visitors were able to ascend to the tekyeh's summit, although presently public access is restricted to the first level only. The specific history of the tekyeh, including its construction date remains unclear.

Historically, the Amir Chakhmagh Complex boasted three water reservoirs that played a vital role in the city's water management system. Meydan Reservoir is no longer standing. Today, only the Five Windcatchers Reservoir (distinguished by its five tall octagonal windcatchers) and the Haj Qanbar/Tekyeh Reservoir remain.

The bathhouse, in the front of the building is around 600 years old. Located at the front of the complex, this historic structure offers a glimpse into the traditional bathing practices of Yazd.

Many parts of the complex deteriorated until the 18th century in the Safavid era, when Bahador Khan Shams Yousef Meibodi renovated some parts and reconstructed the caravanserai in the same location. The complex again encountered erosion until the late 19th century. Most of the changes in Amir Chakhmagh Square were implemented during the modernization period of Reza Shah. By completing Pahlavi Street in 1935, the northern part of the square, which connected it with the Bazaar, was demolished. It seems the caravanserai was demolished at the same time in order to develop the square in a more orderly rectangular shape.