Physical-Spatial Evolution of Mausoleum-mosque in Great Khorasan

Religious sites are a manifestation of the cultural values and principles of aesthetics of any geographical area. In this study, focusing on Greater Khorasan, an effort has been made to not only introduce the shrine mosques of this region but also to gain an understanding of the conceptual developments in this architecture and its spatial construction. The research method in this article is based on interpretive-historical methods and analysis of case studies, with information gathered through library-document studies and field observations. This research aims to answer the question of what concepts the physical transformations of these structures reflect. To answer this question, various variables such as location, geometry and layout, ancillary spaces, boundaries between inside and outside, placement, levels, number of entrances, visibility of the building from outside, geometric facade arrangement, minaret placement, emphasis on vertical axis, expression of horizontal axis, dome shape, type and facade of decorative elements in the buildings have been explored. The research findings indicate that a valuable variety of geometric patterns have been used in the construction of these buildings, however, adherence to principles such as hierarchical access and spatial boundaries, volumetric organization, building facade and the adaptation of the four-iwan pattern, signify the continuity of a tradition in the architecture of these structures in Greater Khorasan.