Ziaiyeh School (Iskander Prison): A tour of the history and architecture of Yazd
Ziaiye School, known as Iskandar Prison, is a historical building in the heart of Yazd city, which dates back to the 8th century AH. This building, which is located in Fahadan neighborhood and in the vicinity of Amir Chakhmaq square, is known as one of the important tourist attractions of Yazd.
History:
The exact date of construction of the Ziaiye school is not known, but some sources attribute it to the Ilkhanid period and others to the Timurid period. Some believe that this building was initially used as a prison and later turned into a school.
Architecture:
The architecture of Ziaie School is a unique example of Iranian creativity and art. This building with a square plan and a central courtyard has four porches on the north, south, east and west sides. The porches with high arches and delicate decorations have created a magnificent and eye-catching atmosphere.
Decorations:
The decorations of Ziaie school are like a treasure of Iranian art. Delicate and colorful tiling, artistic plasterwork, and eye-catching moqran works create a pleasant and memorable atmosphere. Among these decorations, stone inscriptions with Persian poems and hadiths have given a special effect to this building.
Different sections:
Ziaiye school includes different parts such as courtyard, porches, cells, cellar and wind room.
Yard:
The courtyard of Ziaie school is a large and clean space with a large pond in the center. In this section, green trees and a pleasant atmosphere provide a place to rest and relax.
Porches:
The porches of Ziaiyeh School have been a space for students to study and discuss. The porches with high arches and delicate decorations have created a magnificent and eye-catching atmosphere.
Cells:
The cells were residential units for students in the school. The cells, with a simple and intimate atmosphere, have been a place for students to live and study.
Cellar:
The basement of the Ziaiye school has been a cool place to take refuge from the overwhelming heat of the desert. The cellar with its traditional and creative architecture provides a cool and pleasant atmosphere.
Windshield:
Ziaiye school windmill is one of the tallest windmills in Yazd. This 33-meter-high windmill is a masterpiece of Yazdi architects’ creativity and provides a cool and pleasant atmosphere for residents in the intense heat of the desert.