Dash Kasan; an imperial architecture in the Mongol capital of Sultaniyya

Abstract The village of Varāy (Viyar) is located at the foot Āq Dāgh Mountain in southeast Sultaniyya , Iran, and known for its impressive rock-cut architecture called Dash Kasan . history which later became Ilkhanid (Mongol rulers) capital, began with issue an order by Arghūn Khan (1258–1291 CE), to build a huge city enclosed stone walls fortifications. According many field, occupied prominent place development Arghūn’s architectural project; first as quarry, then Buddhist monastery. This building unique design decoration. site’s two large-scale dragon snakes carved out cliffs, vast open space cutting solid rock are only examples their kind Iranian art architecture. Although most debates on identity this site date centered religious function during Mongol period, there little evidence support idea. Hence, nature scope earlier studies not sufficient substantiate discourse surrounding monument. aim paper study enigmatic complex provide more detailed description current remains. results, layout suggests it was originally designed pre-Ilkhanid Mongolian ceremonial halls reflects Chinese, East Asian influence that evident pervasive throughout territories.