History of Arg-e- Alishah in Tabriz

Arg-e-Alishah: Throughout history, many structures have been built for certain purposes. Some of them are still standing, and others only have names left. Some structures have also been repositioned over time and some deformed.

Arg-e- Alishah in Tabriz is one of these buildings that due to the destruction of the building, its history and use is definitely not clear. That is why there are many contradictions about the Arg and the use of this building is not known.

There are many historical monuments in the city of Tabriz. Buildings that each belong to a specific historical period and depict the glory and architecture of that historical period.

One of the most famous of these buildings is Arg-e-Alishah. This Arg was built in the 8th century AH in the old square of Tabriz. The Arg dates back to the patriarchal period. What remains of this magnificent building today is the only south Iwan (porch) of the Arg, which is 33 meters high.

During the excavations, there are many narrations about the purpose of building Arg-e- Alishah. Some consider the reason for building the Arg to be the construction of a large mosque by order of Taj al-Din Alisha Gilani (one of the patrons of the patriarchal period). But some consider the construction of the tomb as the reason for building the Arg.

Arg-e- Alishah is the tallest brick building in Tabriz. The width of the Iwan(porch) is 30 meters and its walls are 10.5 meters wide.

A feature that makes this Arg unique is its huge vault, which is wider than Taq Kasra. Therefore, Arg-e- Alishah in Tabriz is one of the special buildings.

Construction history

To build Alisha Citadel in Tabriz, a skilled architect, a master (Falaki Tabrizi) was selected to build a magnificent building in Tabriz. A building that is larger than Taq Kasra and can be seen from all parts of Tabriz.

Due to the rush in the construction of this building, the original structure was not built strong. Part of the roof dome collapsed during construction.

There are many narrations about the completion of the construction of Arg-e-Alishah in Tabriz. Some sources say that after Alisha’s death, the construction of the citadel was left unfinished. It is said that Alishah’s body was also buried next to the Arg.

Destruction of Arg-e-Alishah

During the first Iran-Russia war, Arg-e-Alishah became one of the important defensive points due to its excellent location and high altitude.

Therefore, during the war, the Arg was used as an ammunition depot by order of Abbas Mirza (Crown Prince FatAli Shah).

In the second Iran-Russia war and after the constitutional period, people used this Arg to defend themselves against enemy forces.

In the book (New History) written by Jahangir Mirza Qajar, it is stated: “The Russians, who were dissatisfied with the defense of the people of Tabriz, stormed the Arg and destroyed it. But this did not satisfy them either. Due to the negligence of Russian forces, part of the Arg caught fire while moving ammunition.”

During the Russian invasion, holes were made for shooting and placing the cannon on the walls of the Arg, changing the shape of the building.

Other reasons for the destruction of Arg-e-Alishah in Tabriz, we can mention the numerous earthquakes that have occurred in this city. The earthquake has caused a lot of damage to the Arg and has caused cracks in its walls.

Architecture of Arg-e-Alishah

  Arg-e-Alishah in Tabriz is a brick structure. This building is built in the style of Azeri architecture.

Durable materials such as lime, mortar and brick have been used in the construction of the Arg.

  Many wooden boards (700 years old) have been used in the construction of the Arg. The reason for using wood was to reduce the weight of the building for more flexibility against earthquakes.

Only three high walls of the old Arg building remain, which is in the shape of Iwan . According to experts, this section was used as a Shabestan.

One of the interesting things about building walls is that they continue up to 7 meters inside the ground.

After the end of the occupation of Tabriz and at the end of the Qajar rule, new structures were built in and around the Arg-e-Alishah.

Buildings such as Nejat School (the first modern school in Iran), the Kolah Farangi Mansion and the Lion and Sun Theater

Unfortunately, these buildings were destroyed during different periods.

Arg-e-Alishah in Tabriz is still standing after all these unfortunate events. This magnificent citadel is a sign of the greatness of its time.

Arg-e-Alishah still has its attraction and attracts many tourists every year. so You can book your Iran tour with Oak travel gency to visit this and other Iran monuments.