Defensive Structures of the Khorasan–Kerman Route in Islamic Iran: A Structural–Conceptual Analysis of Ribats, Watchtowers, and City Gates

Document Type : Original Research

Authors
Maryam Mastalizadeh 1
Seyyed Rasool Mousavi haji 2
1 Department of Archeology, Faculty of Art and Architecture, University of Mazandaran, Babolsar, Iran
2 Associate Professor, Department of Archeology, University of Mazandaran, Babolsar, Iran.
10.48311/eijh.2026.105920.0
Abstract
This paper investigates the defensive structures along the medieval Khorasan–Kerman route, moving beyond isolated analyses to present them as an integrated spatial and ideological network. Employing a novel, multi-angled methodology that combines architectural detail, spatial distribution analysis (e.g., ribat spacing of 25–30 km), and examination of conceptual meanings, this study reveals the dynamic interplay between Seljuk and Safavid rule and their fortifications. Our findings demonstrate that these constructions ribats, watchtowers, and city gates—were not merely passive defenses but active agents in shaping political authority, territorial control, and the transmission of evolving religious identities (from Sunni Seljuk to Shi’a Safavid expressions). The unique contribution of this research lies in its synthesis of structural and conceptual analysis, offering a replicable framework for studying Islamic-era fortifications and uncovering how carefully planned networks fortified not just borders, but also the ideological landscape of eastern Iran. This work provides a more nuanced understanding of statecraft and belief systems in the period, opening new avenues for heritage preservation and historical interpretation.
Keywords
Khorasan&ndash
Kerman route, ribat, watchtower, city gate, structural&ndash
conceptual analysis
Subjects