Analyzing the Effect of Ritual Occasions on the Synomorphic Pattern in a Community Built environment (A Case Study of Jolfa: An Armenian Neighborhood of Isfahan)

Document Type : Original Research Paper

Authors

1 Master's student, Department of Architecture, Technical and Engineering Faculty, Shahid Ashrafi Isfahani NonGovernmental University, Isfahan, Iran.

2 Assistant professor and faculty member, Department of Architecture, Faculty of Technical and Engineering, Shahid Ashrafi Isfahani Non-Governmental University, Doctorate in Energy Architecture and Visiting Professor, University of Tehran, Iran.

Abstract
Synomorphy in architecture seeks the maximum synomorphy between the body, function and behavioral paradigm in line with the needs and perceptions of the residents and focuses on creating a positive experience for them. The function of the environment and the residents’ behavior, in an interactional relationship, is a common core between humans and the environment. Accordingly, the evaluation of synomorphy in behavioral settings helps us understand the efficiency of the environment. This study evaluates the effect of religious occasions (Christmas) on the formation of synomorphy in Jolfa, Isfahan. This is an applied study of a descriptive-analytical type performed using a qualitative-quantitative approach. Data were collected using document review, ethnography and field observations, especially through random observations within a targeted period of time - at three points in time before, at the beginning, and at the end of Christmas in three time periods: (9 to 12 in the morning), (14 to 17 in the afternoon) and (19 to 22 at night) and then they were analyzed. The field observations in Jolfa neighborhood of Isfahan shows that there are differences in the behavioral and social paradigm between the periods under research (ritual occasion period and normal days) and this factor affects the efficiency of the current uses in the area under investigation. The results of this study show that ritual occasions can significantly strengthen and stabilize the synomorphy paradigm. These occasions also lead to the emergence of certain patterns of behavior, activities, and changes in the environment, which may affect the behavior and different elements of the environment. In this regard, the synomorphy of the studied area can be increased through solutions such as modifying the urban furniture layout and increasing the quality and behavioral capabilities of urban walls.

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Articles in Press, Corrected Proof
Available Online from 22 July 2026

  • Receive Date 11 February 2024
  • Revise Date 13 July 2024
  • Accept Date 23 July 2024