Document Type : Original Article

Authors

• HAHIDEH REZAEI ¹
• rahmat mohammadzade ²

¹ TABRIZ ISLAMIC ART UNIVERSITY

² Department of Architecture, Faculty of Engineering, Tabriz University, Tabriz, Iran.

Abstract

For hundreds, and perhaps thousands, of years, people around the world gathered to exchange goods and services necessary for their livelihoods. These spaces, commonly called "commercial spaces," often became an inseparable part of living communities. The purpose of this study is to conduct a comparative analysis of the forms of commercial spaces in the West and traditional markets in the East (Middle East) during the classical era, employing a comparative study method with analytical-descriptive approaches. Data collection was conducted through library research. The findings indicate that the concept of markets in the West differs from that in the Middle East, where markets played a fundamental role in the urban structure and acted as the heart and primary driving force for the growth and formation of cities, accompanied by architecture and urban spaces suited to the local environment. These markets significantly influenced economic, social, and political communications on both regional and national scales. For citizens, they were essential for creating sensory richness and strengthening a sense of belonging, reflecting the multifunctionality, indigenous architecture, and the close relationship of the market with local neighborhoods.

In contrast, in the Western context, commercial spaces developed alongside other important buildings in the central city square or along main streets, featuring rich architecture, diverse landscapes, and a homogeneous mix of functions. These commercial spaces served not only for trade and local buying and selling but also as venues for political gatherings and festivals. In the West, commercial spaces, aligned with their architectural context and offering diverse activities, contributed to fostering a sense of belonging among individuals. However, it seems that due to the lack of functional cohesion with surrounding neighborhoods, users may experience a lesser sense of belonging compared to Eastern markets

Keywords

• comparative study
• commercial spaces
• Bazaar
• classical era

Main Subjects

• Urban Design