Critical Analysis of Theories on the Origin of Ayvan

As the achievement and an invaluable index of the Iranian culture, Ayvan (known also as Eyvan) has been the subject of many pieces of research by architects, archaeologists and art historians for almost a century. Although it is a conventional space for the researchers, Ayvan is widely unknown and neglected. To be recognized as it deserves and to understand its origin, shape, concept, and function, a deep and meticulous approach is required. A comprehensive analysis of Ayvan provides a comparison of this structure through different periods in the tradition of Iranian architecture and enables us in arriving at an exact recognition and analysis of Ayvan. This knowledge hasa vital contribution to the advancement of studies in archeology, history, architecture, and art history. The advent of Ayvan, its continuation in the course of history, and the factors influencing its formation have not yet been fully analyzed. This paper aims at a critical analysis of the hypotheses regarding the origin and the development of Ivan in the tradition of Iranian architecture. A better understanding of the true origin of this structure provides a better understanding of its functions. As one of the obvious symbols of spiritual and material aspects of Iranian high culture, Ayvan has therefore played a key role in understanding the characteristics and cultural values of the Iranian society, reflecting the technical skills, artistry, elegance and the subtlety of thought among Iranians.