Life in the Alleys: Reclaiming In-Between Places in the Old Center of Bushehr, Iran

Abstract In the relentless march of modernization, historic cities find themselves at a critical crossroads, grappling with the challenges of preservation and adaptation. The twenty-first century witnessed transformative shifts that have altered the essence of urban heritage. The rapid evolution of technology, changes in lifestyle, and the globalization have cast a shadow over the architectural and cultural patterns that defines historic city centers. Against this backdrop of unprecedented change, this thesis seeks to navigate the intricate complexities of modernization, aiming not only to safeguard the tangible and intangible heritage of these urban fabrics but also to uncover innovative and sustainable pathways for their continued existence and relevance in the contemporary era. Within the broader context of urban revitalization, this research is situated in the historical city of Bushehr in the south of Iran. Bushehr lies in a vast plain running along the coastal region on the Persian Gulf coast of south-western Iran. It is built near the ancient port city of Rishahr (Sassanian, Riv Ardasher). It was the chief seaport of the country and is the administrative Centre of its province. Bushehr was the main trade center of Iran in the past centuries. The city structures are traditional in style, modest in proportion and cost. Due to its lack of rail connection to the interior of the country and its shallow anchorage, it has lost its position as the primary port of Iran. The strategic location of city of Bushehr has been the main reason for the establishment of the port of Bushehr. Today Bushehr remains among the most important ports in the Persian Gulf. It has an international airport, and highways connect the city to Ahvaz to the northwest and Shiraz to the northeast. A secondary coastal road links Bushehr to Bandar-e Abbas to the southeast. The old section of central Bushehr has many examples of traditional Persian Gulf architecture from the period 1870 to 1920. Most of these mansions are registered under the list of national heritage, which among them faculty of Art and Architecture stands as the heart of cultural heritage conservation in the old center, as it has increased social spirits among the residents of the historical quarter. Bushehr is an export market for farm produce from the neighboring and fertile Fars Province. Bushehr’s industries include seafood canneries, foodprocessing plants, and engineering firms. The Iranian navy maintains a base here. Focusing on the broader concept of urban revitalization, this research seeks to inject new life into historic city center. It proposes a holistic and sustainable approach to breathe new life into Bushehr’s old center. Drawing from the in-between places, the aim is to transform abandoned public spaces into social and cultural hubs. The vision is not merely to cater to tourism but to reintegrate the area as a livable, dynamic space with diverse daily activities. Emphasizing the significance of social hubs, the design aims to facilitate socialization, cultural exchange, and the fostering of a vibrant community spirit. In essence, this thesis proposes a strategy that extends beyond traditional tourism paradigms. It suggests a dynamic, sustainable, and culturally immersive transformation in Bushehr’s old center, combining history, modernity, and community regeneration. The following sections will delve deeper into the specific details of this transformative approach.