Seljuk Studies

Identifying, Site Locating, and Date Setting of Ismaili Castles in Damghan

Document Type : Research Articles

Author

Muhammad Saber

M. A Student of the History of Iran, University of Tehran. Tehran. Iran

Abstract
For almost a century, the study of Ismaili castles has been one of the most important topics in the historical field of Ismaili studies. Qumis’s geographical location, its military and economic capacities during Ismaili reign (1090-1256), and its position as a gateway between two important parts of the Ismaili realm, i.e., Daylam-Alamut and Quhistan, turned it into an outstanding place. The founding of the Seljuk dynasty in 1039 led to Iran’s territorial integrity and security and, consequently, the economic growth in cities like Merv and Neyshabur. It also resulted in the development of transportation networks. Taking control of such networks was one of the priorities of the Seljuk dynasty’s rivals, such as the Ismaili state. After taking control of the Girdkuh castle and other castles in Qumis, the Ismaili state was able to control the region’s main routes. It broadened this state’s dominance and financial viability as a government established in the heart of the Seljuk territory, setting the stage for Ismaili-Seljuk conflicts and nearby rulers loyal to the Seljuk empire, like the Bavand dynasty in Tabarestan. The study was conducted on the Ismaili castles in Damghan, which cover an area of 104 hectares. Also, the floors of nine mountain castles were measured and recorded. Photogrammetry was used for the surveying. The earthenware floors of nine castles were examined. The Damghan castles considered in this study date from ancient times until the 13th century. Because of the eras specified in the title, this project focused on the 11th and 13th centuries.

Keywords

Ismaili castles
Damghan
Ismaili state
GirdKuh
mountain castles
photogrammetry

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  • Receive Date 16 November 2023
  • Revise Date 11 February 2024
  • Accept Date 11 March 2024

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