Document Type : Original Article
Author
Asistant profeessor, conservation of historical architecture, Jundi-shapur University of Technology, Dezful, Iran .
10.22034/hsaj.2026.568784.1040
Abstract
Vaulted subterranean tombs in southwestern Iran, particularly in Khuzestan Province, represent some of the most significant funerary architectural remains of the Parthian and Elymaean periods and reflect the transformation of spatial organization, circulation patterns, and burial rituals during these eras. This study adopts a historical–interpretative approach based on library research and field investigations to conduct a comparative analysis of the spatial–architectural characteristics and access systems of these tombs. Six Parthian and four Elymaean vaulted tombs were selected and analyzed using archaeological reports and field observations. Archaeological documents, plans, and excavation reports were examined, followed by the analysis of architectural evidence, spatial proportions, and movement patterns observed on site. The main objective of the research is to identify the similarities and differences between the funerary architecture of these two periods and to clarify the evolution of burial patterns, chronological indicators, and the role of local traditions in shaping these spaces. The principal research question focuses on the similarities and differences in spatial organization, access hierarchy, and vault forms between Parthian and Elymaean tombs. The findings indicate that both periods shared a continuous architectural tradition characterized by rectangular plans, brick barrel vaults, and subterranean burial patterns. Nevertheless, notable differences can be observed in spatial proportions and circulation systems. The average length-to-width ratio in Parthian tombs is approximately 1:30, whereas in Elymaean tombs it reaches about 1:52, indicating a transformation in spatial proportions. In addition, Parthian tombs exhibit more diverse three-part spatial organizations, the presence of vestibules or dromoi, and more complex circulation patterns, suggesting a multilayered funerary structure. In contrast, Elymaean tombs tend toward simpler two-part organizations and more direct linear access to the burial chamber. These architectural changes demonstrate a gradual transformation rather than a cultural rupture and reflect evolving spatial concepts and funerary beliefs in Khuzestan. The identified patterns may serve as reliable analytical indicators for architectural chronology, archaeological interpretation, and conservation studies.
Highlights
· A comparative analysis of the spatial and architectural patterns of Parthian and Elymaean vaulted tombs in Khuzestan.
· Continuity of funerary architectural traditions in both periods through the use of rectangular plans and barrel-vaulted brick roofing.
· Significant differences in spatial proportions, with Elymaean tombs exhibiting more elongated burial chambers than their Parthian counterparts.
· Greater spatial complexity and more diverse circulation patterns in the Parthian tombs.
· Simplified spatial organization and more direct access routes in the Elymaean tombs.
· Identification of three principal spatial–circulation patterns in the funerary architecture of the two periods.
· Recognition of the dromos and entrance vestibule as key architectural features distinguishing Parthian from Elymaean tombs.
· The length-to-width ratio of burial chambers proposed as a diagnostic indicator for the chronological classification of funerary architecture.
· Evidence that the evolution of funerary architecture is reflected in changes to spatial organization and mortuary practices rather than construction technology alone.
· Provision of spatial and architectural criteria to support the chronological assessment, architectural interpretation, and conservation of pre-Islamic funerary monuments.
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