Collection 21: 24 TT (Tower-Tomb) of Iranian architecture style!
Tower-tombs can be considered examples of both Iranian memorial architecture and high-rise architecture due to their high heights and urban scale, as well as the memorial elements and geometry of their design. These tombs or towers are generally located on circular or polygonal bases and are closed at the top with either conical or spherical domes – although in some cases, like Toghrol Tower, the dome has been destroyed over time.
Aside from the gigantic Gonbad-e Qaboos, most of these towers are almost equal in size and proportion, as demonstrated by the pictures, which show a gradual decrease in height. While many of these monuments were built during the post-Islamic period, some are said to have pre-Islamic foundations or were rebuilt upon ruins.
Compared to minarets, these monuments have larger plans and lower heights, as they serve different purposes. However, in Iran, some of them are referred to as minarets, such as the Lajim minaret.
Tower-tombs are significant architectural achievements, both in their artistic form and historical function. Therefore, preserving and restoring these structures is critical to understanding Iran’s rich architectural heritage.