| Summary: | <p>In the history of Iran, particularly after the advent of Islam, schools of art, architecture, and urban planning emerged as civilizational components shaped by cultural traditions, religious beliefs, politics, geography, and social conditions. Their influence extended beyond temporal and spatial boundaries, with the cultural history of cities serving as a major factor in the rise of architectural styles and urban schools. When the material and spiritual achievements of a society matured and transcended stylistic limits, they formed what became recognized as a “school.” At times, government initiatives accelerated this process.</p>
<p>Among Iranian cities, Tabriz has had a unique role in shaping the country’s cultural and historical trajectory. During the Ilkhanate, it became the capital, gaining prosperity and recognition as a center of science, politics, trade, and industry. The “Tabriz School” left a profound impact beyond Azerbaijan, especially in painting, architecture, and urbanism. In both the Ilkhanate and Safavid periods—known as the First and Second Tabriz Schools—the city generated ideas, theories, and plans that established a value system for city building and urban life.</p>
<p>The Traditional Grand Bazaar of Tabriz, as a central element of this school, went far beyond its commercial function to shape the physical and social structure of neighborhoods. Like other bazaars in Iran, it adapted to cultural, climatic, and economic contexts, but the Tabriz Bazaar—today a UNESCO World Heritage site—stands as a pillar of urban identity. Recognizing its hidden dimensions helps to understand the structure of traditional neighborhoods in Tabriz.</p>
<p>This study aims to identify the Bazaar’s role in shaping identity and its physical, economic, and social manifestations in the Tabriz School of urbanism. Using a descriptive-analytical and historical approach, the research relies on historiography, library resources, and field observations. Findings reveal that the Bazaar’s influence can be grouped into physical, functional, content-related, and environmental aspects. Features such as gradual spatial growth, crossing axes, central spaces, multiple access points, and its dual role as both destination and thoroughfare have deeply shaped Tabriz’s neighborhoods.</p>
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