Cemetery as a Sociocultural Space in the Persian Cities

Abstract

Examining the planning of cemeteries in the urbanism system of Iran does not show a good<br />condition. In fact, cemeteries in the most Persian cities have become large-scale open spaces outside the city. This could<br />cause irreparable damage to the cities because of the partial and/or improper use of the capacity of urban lands. Along<br />with this, historical cemeteries within the cities have been abandoned. However, it seems that urban space with function<br />of the cemetery has a specific sociocultural potential. Cemeteries can be very effective elements in the symbolic network<br />of the city. As a result, it is also an essential element which must be associated with the structure and organisation of the<br />city and the neighbourhoods, not as a waste and marginal element. In addition, examining this symbolic space achieve<br />a symbolic dialogue which will result in exploring the beliefs, emotions, dreams, and imaginations of ancestors which<br />means these urban areas need a specific attention. This paper, by using descriptive-analytical research method, attempts<br />to explain sociocultural functions of cemeteries as an urban space, and to scrutinise its pathology through reviewing its<br />position in the urban plans in Iran. In the following, via an emphasis on the sociocultural role of the cemetery, a series<br />of strategies will be expressed for promoting its position within cities.