The historic background of residential areas show that territorial behavior is respectful for inhabitants, designers and architects, and it is considered as something necessary for living. what we are going to explore here is levels of territorial behavior which are called Understanding Territories and their distinguishing featureis illegal ownership of the clients. The territories play a pivotal role in forming the organic physical structures of historic textures and can be classified at four levels: the territory impacted by place inhabitant, the territory influenced by accessibility system, the neighboring territory and the territory impacted by ritual system. Research method, in this paper, is qualitative and the case study is to create Talarpish (Balcony)in historic city of Maosuleh; It is tried to analyse the issues according to physical and social structures of the city. The results indicated general satisfaction, neighborhood satisfaction, respect to access routes and ritual system of Alambaranis examples which has been respected by Talarpish (Balcony) applicant in masouleh. Understanding territories in collective mentality of Iranian has historically been Sustainable and can with their mechanism updating be used in the management of historical places.

The town of masouleh is located some 60 km away from Rasht (Guilan, Iran) , 30 km southwest of Fooman, in a mountainous and forested area. Its elevation is 1050 m above sea level and it is established on a rocky slope having a unique architecture in Iran and even in the world. The harmony between architecture and natural and geographic environment, is exclusive and astounding and has been documented as a national heritage under the code of 1090. Therefore ,the preservation and conservation of this natural collection is very important both for the present and future. However, at the present time this town is facing with various natural and man-made hazards such as debris falls, floods, mudflows, earthquakes, and human caused problems resulting from development projects. These factors maximize the risk probablity. On the other hand, evidence suggests that the previous location of Masouleh has been 5 km away from the present place, and there do exist the remains of human civilization. Natural disasters have destroyed the old Masouleh. Natural hazards can cause hazards and change likely dangers to disasters. This hazards are: natural climatic conditions, hydrological, geological, biological and technological effects.To identify the Natural hazards of Masouleh, the author has studied and used statistical meteorological, hydrological data in the framework of a research plan at Islamic Azad University (Rasht Branch).This article also makes attempts to present the geographic location of the old city of Masouleh and discover the hazards and risks that threaten people both at present and future.

Studies of stream and river ecosystems in Iran are very sketchy and their information is rather general and vague. Understanding various aspects of river systems is vital for their management and protection. The present study was aimed to obtain and present information on key stream populations and evaluate their responses to arrays of environmental gradients as a model for other north Iran (Guilan) streams. During the study, in the period of 6 months (summer - autumn 2010) 23 diatom genera were identified from Masouleh stream. Physical and chemical parameters including temperature, electron conductivity (EC), pH, Fe, salinity, nitrate and orthophosphate were measured and analyzed in water column simultaneously. CCA test showed that EC, pH, Fe and salinity were the most important factors controlling diatom distribution. Values of two major components of CCA differed significantly (P<0.05). DCA analysis was used to observe taxonomic differences and similarities between diatom genera in different sites. We found that chemical parameters exert stronger impacts on diatom population than physical factors although studying of both parameters were essential to have an accurate understanding of stream health assessment and status. Diatom indices (diversity, evenness, TDI and PTI) provided useful information on biosenosis of the Masouleh stream and therefore application of this index is recommended for other streams in northern Iran.

Sash windows are windows where the glazed panels are opened by sliding vertically with colored glasses that can pass sunlight with different colors in proportion to the hours and intensity of radiation. Masouleh historical city is one of the areas with the most remarkable sash windows in its architecture. In this research, it is tried to categorize various types of sash windows in Masouleh historical city. It is also tried to analyze and evaluate the visual, structural, functional and light features of sash window. The present research has used field method and descriptive-analytic studies to achieve these goals. The results of the research indicate that sash windows in Masouleh can be categorized in 6 different types of diverse sash windows, such as non-porous market sash windows, double glazed one-Daraki sash windows, two-Daraki sash windows, three-Daraki sash windows, four-Daraki sash windows, and five-Daraki sash windows. Also, by reviewing and analyzing the visual and structural features of Masouleh's sash window, the main reasons for the appearance of different types of sash windows are as follows: creating more human dimensions in the dimensions of the openings, creating a suitable covering (Hijab) for users in the interior, creating visual visibility proportional to user-friendly conditions (Animating), increasing physical protection from older users and children, reducing energy consumption, as well as weight reduction in buildings in order to reduce vulnerability to earthquakes. Research objectives 1. Investigating, introducing and categorizing different types of sash windows in Masouleh historical city. 2. Understanding the visual and structural features of sash windows in Masouleh historical homes. Research questions 1. How many different types of sash windows are in the Masouleh historical city? 2. What factors affect the formation of the visual and structural features of sash windows in Masouleh historical houses?

The objective of this study was to define different erosions types in the drainage basin of Masouleh Rudkhan and to determine the rate of erosion and production of sediments. The factors affecting erosion such as phsiography, topography, climatic condition, hydrology, geology, geomorphology and vegetation were investigated. This drainage basin has an area of about 227.72 km2. Based on the geomorphological survey, 3 joints, 18 geomorphological faces and 229 primitive joints could be determined. The rate of erosion and sediment production of every work-joint were studied, employing geomorphological units (qualitative) and E.P.M. method (quantitative). The sub-drainage basin number 4 showed the highest erosion rate (2.1) and the largest sediment productions (94081 m3). This is due to the effects of slope and low resident of shale, clay and silt as well as the change of land use and. The sub-drainage basin number 8 showed the lowest rate of erosion (0.69) and sediment production (12297.5 m3) owing to the natural resistance of such stones as diorite, gneiss and gabbro. The results showed that in every geomorphic unit, the resistance of stone against erosion was the most important parameter and that the most important eroding factor was the change of land use and forest destruction. Furthermore, there was a logic relation between the geomorhological units and the rate of erosion. Thus, the use of E.P.M. model in this case was found to be appropriate and logical.

Japan and Guilan being located in similar climates have experienced same architectural and artistic characteristics such as Kumiko art and Gereh-Chini. Due to the fact that so far no research has been conducted on the similarities and differences between Kumiko and Gereh-Chini, the present study will try to investigate the components forming the two arts. With the aid of comparative studies, the authors aim to answer the following questions: What factors have been effective in the formation of Japanese Kumiko art and Masouleh's Gereh-Chini? Are the geometric motifs of the two arts categorized in several levels? What are the similarities and differences between the two arts? This investigation is based on descriptive-analytical and comparative studies, and library and field methods have been used in the recognition of Gereh-Chinis. The results of the research show that the most effective factors in the formation of Kumiko art are the existence of concepts such as plant forms, animals and cultural interactions with China and India, traditional clothes of China and Japan, elements of traditional architecture and the living environment of Japan. Concepts of Gereh-Chini include celestial objects, religious symbols, holy names and numbers, simple and complex geometric shapes, non-native patterns, animal motifs and native plants of Masouleh. Among the main differences and similarities between the two arts, we can point out the presence of complex geometric structures, simple materials and the more delicate framework of Kumiko compared to Gereh-Chini. Komikos are used in dividing spaces and Gereh-Chinis are used in openings. Kumiko joints are in the form of mortise and tenon and Gereh-Chinis are in the form of mortise and tenon and ghavarehbori. The results of the research show the existence of formal similarities, the influence of religious and historical concepts and the use of same plant forms and animal motifs in the two arts.

In traditional Iranian architecture, openings go beyond their functional roles such as ventilation, lighting, and access, embodying semantic and aesthetic dimensions that shape the cultural and social identity of spaces. The traditional bazaar of Masouleh, as a prominent example of  Iranian vernacular architecture, features openings that can be analyzed in terms of form, decorative patterns, and cultural meanings. This research seeks to address two main questions: 1. What concepts have influenced the formation of ornamental elements in the openings of Masouleh’s historical bazaar? 2. How are these openings categorized, and what geometric patterns do they follow? The study aims to examine the typology and semantics of the bazaar’s openings through an analysis of their form, ornamentation, and symbolic meanings, thereby contributing to the preservation and continuity of this region’s architectural identity. Employing a descriptive-analytical approach, supported by field studies and software-assisted analysis, this research investigates the performance of openings in relation to natural lighting in the Masouleh region. Among the 104 commercial units in Masouleh’s historical bazaar (68 active and 34 inactive), 15  buildings featuring decorated openings were selected for typological classification and for identifying the underlying conceptual influences. To analyze the performance in daylighting, VELUX Daylight Visualizer 3 was utilized. The findings reveal that the openings of these commercial buildings  fall into five primary types: single transomless windows, windows without transoms, transom windows with inscriptions, modern additions (e. g., advertisements, lamps), and orsi windows. The geometric knotwork patterns  observed include sunburst motifs (29%), diamond-square patterns (24%), and composite designs incorporating both geometric and vegetal elements. Functionally, the inscribed and framed openings demonstrated the most effective performance in providing natural light and ventilation. This study  emphasizes that the openings of Masouleh Bazaar, drawing inspiration from mystical, geometric, and natural themes, are not merely utilitarian features but are integral to the cultural and historical identity of the region.

AbstractConsidering the rich history of Iran in the field of art and architecture, delightful doors with unique characteristics are found, each of which is derived from cultural, religious, and social interactions. Typology, recognition, and reproduction of antecedent motifs and designs in traditional doors could revive cultural identity in contemporary cities. Doors and windows are influential factors in shaping buildings in Iranian architecture. Having a thousand-year-old history with the presence of skilled blacksmiths and carpenters, Masouleh has treasured beautiful gates being formed in various buildings at different parts of the town. The purpose of the research is to determine the typology and knowledge of the types of traditional doors in the historical town of Masouleh. The research method is field and library studies. At first, 32 ancient doors in Masouleh were selected for field studies. In the next step, library and interview methods were used to identify the components and designs of the doors. The research results show that the doors in Masouleh are of three types: building, religious, residential and commercial. The doors of the religious buildings are classified into three levels: woodcarving, Girih, tiles, and geometric motifs. The most important factors shaping the decorations of religious doors is the praise of God, which is presented in the form of Islamic, animal, and calligraphy motifs. The doors of the residential buildings are classified into three levels: plain with no design, the ones with geometric design, and Girih tiles. Residential doors are formed based on a combination of the beautiful art of metalwork and woodwork, respect for the needs of the users, and the religious beliefs of the people of Masouleh. The doors of commercial buildings in Masouleh are in the form of collapsible and Girih tile designs. The flexible structure of the collapsible doors of commercial buildings allows for maximum coverage of the openings and visibility of handicrafts. The results indicate that the neighborhoods of Masjed-Bar, Khaneh-Bar, and Keshe-sar have the most classic traditional doors.Keywords: Masouleh, Traditional Doors, Iranian-Islamic Arts, Typology. IntroductionDoors and windows are influential factors in shaping buildings in Iranian architecture. In the structure of the doors of traditional Iranian buildings, the visual and emotional connection between the exterior and interior of the buildings is well observed in terms of cultural characteristics. Based on the environmental and climatic conditions of each geographical region of Iran, the created spaces have doors with numerous sizes, shapes, and variations from a functional perspective, based on which they have various names. Entrances play an essential role in separating buildings from public space. In Iranian architecture, doors are a symbol of entering into two different worlds; therefore, doors have semantic and physical sanctity in the beliefs of the Iranian people. Doors are manifestations of the religious beliefs of their inhabitants. With a thousand-year-old history and the presence of skilled blacksmiths and carpenters, Masouleh has treasured beautiful gates that were made in various buildings in different parts of the city. Unfortunately, due to the rapid pace of change at all levels of society and the existence of natural disasters and human disasters, it is feared that the traditional arts of Masouleh, which have been formed in this historic city for centuries, will become endangered in the not-too-distant future. In fact, conducting such research can play an important role in the preservation and introduction of works of art in Masouleh. The aim of the research is to find several types of traditional doors based on the frequency, function of buildings, differences and similarities of the decorative and functional structures of Masouleh doors. Achieving these goals is a step towards recognizing and properly protecting the monuments of the historic city of Masouleh. Accordingly, the research questions are as follows: Are the traditional doors of Masouleh classified into several categories? What are the effective factors in forming the designs and decorations of traditional Masouleh doors? How is the redundancy of traditional Masouleh doors among neighborhoods? What are the differences and similarities between the doors based on physical, functional and decorative terms? Research method: In the first section of the research, 564 existing buildings in Masouleh have been initially evaluated based on field studies, which include 445 residential buildings, 104 commercial buildings and 15 religious’ buildings. In the next step, information and pictures of 32 ancient doors of Masouleh, which were more decorated and older than other doors, have been prepared. In the last step, the components of the doors, the function of the door components, and the types of doors are interpreted and presented based on descriptive-analytical studies, depending on the use and the reason for the emergence of various types of traditional doors.  Identified TracesThe doors of the historic city of Masouleh are derived from the social, religious, and cultural concepts of the people who have lived there for centuries. Findings show that the materials of the wooden frames and slats of traditional doors in Masouleh are from ebony, oak, walnut, beech, and maple trees. Also, metal fasteners for Masouleh doors such as studs (shamseh, Mallow and simple metal studs), knockers (simple, Poolaki knockers, separate and continuous-stud Poolaki knockers), metal handles made by local blacksmiths and other central provinces such as Yazd and Isfahan. Specifications for the physical dimensions of Masouleh doors include religious buildings = 1.50 cm wide and 2.50 cm high, residential buildings = 2.50 cm wide and 200 cm high, and commercial buildings = 400 cm wide and 200 cm high. The results also show that the old neighborhoods of Masouleh such as Masjed-bar, Khaneh-bar, Asad Mahalleh and Keshe-sar have the oldest traditional doors. Most of the nose designs are in the form of simple designs, leaf designs, and copper stud Mallow designs. The results show that the Masouleh’s doors do not often have studs and the design of the existing studs is also filled with copper studs with Mallow designs and Shamseh designs of 14, 12, 11, and 10 points. The point that should be mentioned is the attention of the people of Masouleh to the religious teachings and beliefs that have led to the emergence and installation of knockers for men and women on residential doors. The results show that the frequency of female knockers is higher than that of men. In general, the design of the hinges of Masouleh buildings is in the form of doors with a square rectangular design, with no design, crescent designs, Girih tiles, woodcarving, rhombus rectangular design, arrow design, arched design and collapsible doors. Conclusion Masouleh doors are classified into three levels: religious, residential, and commercial. Religious buildings, due to their function as a place of worship for Muslims, have led to the formation of the doors of mosques with Islamic motifs and calligraphy for the praise of God and the deceased. The exterior doors of religious buildings often have woodcarvings and geometric patterns, and the middle and inner doors of the mosques in Masouleh are designed with Girih tiles. The results also show that traditional doors of residential buildings have three types of doors, including plain with no design, doors with geometric designs, and Girih tiles. Traditional doors of residential buildings have minimal designs on wooden slats, but they have beautiful metal decorations such as studs, knockers for men and women, internal and external locks and fasteners, Poolaki underknockers, and handles with plant and animal designs. The traditional doors of Masouleh’s commercial buildings are designed to meet the needs of users in collapsible and Girih tile forms. Collapsible doors have been used in most of the Masouleh commercial buildings due to their wide openings, ease of closing, light weight, and high security due to the lack of holes on the hinges. The doors of Masouleh’s commercial buildings do not include wooden and metal ornaments.

Due to avoiding utilization of human figures and abstaining from idolatry, decorations have specific geometry in Islamic art and architecture. One of the striking characteristics of the knots (girih) that has caused to dynamicity throughout its thousand-year history is its regeneration and diversification of the diverse geometric properties. Girih tiling decoration is part of geometric arts in the traditional buildings of the historic town of Masouleh dates back to eight hundred years. Traditional and local architects of this historical town have adopted special and intellectual plans for creating visual attractions in expression and creation of girih tiling in the walls of the monuments. One of these valuable solutions is diverse geometric decorations patterns. Since the main facades of the houses in this town are directly located in the sunrise direction and it is accepted landscape for the citizens of this historical town, so the artists have shown their art and style in this part of the monument and built beautiful and harmonic diverse wooden windows and variety of these patterns are seen in all five neighborhoods in this town. Girih tiling consists of straight and broken lines on a regular basis that could be reasonably expanded in the surface. In the present study, it has been tried to classify the decorations in girih tiling in the neighborhood of Masouleh and also investigate girih tiling including scrolls and edges, and also the role of decoration in this element. The methodology of the research is based on field study and direct observation of the monuments and decorations and taking image and converting into Auto CAD files with dimensional analysis. Also, for description of girih tiling, descriptive and library studies have been conducted. Questions that the research seeks to answer in this paper are: Can it 8 D be offered a defined pattern for opening girih tilingby analyzing of the decorations in neighborhood of Khanehbar in Masouleh? And also is the largest usage of the patterns seen in scrolls (middle or central plan)? Does scroll use most patterns in its margins? The girih tiling patterns of “gavarehbari” with “boteh jegeh” designs (paisley), eight squares ornamental layout, rectangular, “hasht-chahr longeh tokhmedar”, and gavarehbari with the scales patterns are more common patterns. Fourteen patterns were seen in studying the girih tiling patterns employed in the combined windows that “alat jafari chokhati” and then rectangular tiling and seven and eight sides tiling patterns were common. The patterns used in the friezes are mostly eight squares layouts. The most common patterns in the margins are four- side tiling in all parts. Diverse patterns of girih tiling, besides with diverse combinations resulted from placing together and offering shapes in the friezes and marginal patterns have offered rich visual ornamentation in the historical city of Masouleh. Such studies aid reproduction of these patterns in the contemporary fine arts while preservation and documentation of the fine and visual patterns in the Iranian girih tiling.

Conformance with the principles of passive defense in architectural works and urban planning plays a decisive role in creating stability and protecting the life and financial interests of citizens. The research method is descriptive-analytical and field and library methods were implemented to investigate the statistical population. In this research, 564 buildings in the historical city of       Masouleh, being constructed based on passive defense concepts, have been investigated. The     research question is as follows; How is passive defense observed in the architecture and urban planning of the historical city of Masouleh? And how can it be used for the architecture and urban planning of Iranian cities by rereading the concepts of passive defense in Masouleh? The research results indicate that the location of the city, dispersion of the buildings (vital to medium), city  camouflage, confusion in the eyes of the enemy, structural fortifications of the buildings, quick  repairability of the buildings, protection of urban facilities, design criteria of urban furniture,   materials used in the structure and facade, form of buildings, number of entrances and exits and the presence of multi-functional spaces on the floors, small and protected openings in the facade, safe space, shelter, protective walls, compliance with building height and scale based on the importance factor, privacy, access to vital and medical places, service centers, parking lots and infrastructure facilities of Masouleh have been in line with the concepts of passive defense.