Abstract

Religion has played an important role in the formation of Iranian cities during the Islamic era, so it is necessary to reconsider in development planning, among other factors, to achieve more sustainable development. The present study has studied the background of the influence of Islamic culture on the growth and development of cities in the Islamic period by examining documents and libraries. The present study then presents a conceptual framework of urban development of the Islamic era and extracts the elements and principles of the physical fabric of cities in Muslim-inhabited lands. Then, by using interviews, observing and carefully examining historical documents and information about Sagharisazan neighborhood, the role of religion in the development of Sagharisazan neighborhood, based on the four components of physical texture, bazaar, mosques and shrines, has been studied and analyzed. The analysis of the research shows that religion and religious elements have played an important role in shaping the development of Rasht and Sagharisazan neighborhood of Rasht has been affected by these factors and elements has found an important place in Rasht. Sagharisazan neighborhood is affected by the tombs in it and the numerous mosques in it, have a great impact on the physical fabric of the neighborhood and are located in the focal points of the neighborhood. Also, this neighborhood, like other Islamic cities, has a compact texture, high density and organic texture and winding, and the market as the backbone of this neighborhood, has had a great impact on its growth and development.