Caravanserai as Semi-nodal Spatial-Economic Elements in the Urban Structure of Tabriz's Historical Bazaar: A Morphological Analysis Based on Spatial Syntax

Abstract

The historical bazaar of Tabriz represents a complex urban-commercial system shaped by long-distance trade networks connecting Iran to Anatolia, the Caucasus, and Central Asia. While previous studies have mainly examined their architectural and socio-economic features, the spatial role of caravanserais in the internal bazaar network has not been adequately explored. This study examines the spatial location of caravanserais in the bazaar structure using a hybrid approach that combines morphological analysis and spatial syntax techniques. Caravansers were assessed in terms of their integration, connectivity, and proximity to major intersections and movement corridors. The findings indicate that caravanserais are mainly located along highly integrated routes and close to key intersections, although they do not consistently coincide with syntactic nodes. This study argues that caravanserais function as semi-nodal spatio-economic elements that reinforce movement patterns and trade hierarchies, rather than independently creating them. This research contributes to urban morphology and heritage studies by providing a measurable interpretation of traditional bazaar systems and advocating for their sustainable integration into contemporary urban contexts.