Assistant Professor, Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning, Art University of Isfahan
Abstract
Once a prosperous capital in the Safavid period, Isfahan was neglected for almost two centuries after its siege by Afghan invaders. Under the Qajar rule, governors were frequently replaced until 1290 AH (circa 1900 AD) when Prince Zel-os-Soltan was appointed governor. He governed Isfahan for some thirty years. In the first seven years of his reign, he managed the abandoned royal lands, promoted suburban development, restored royal buildings and built new commercial edifices. Nevertheless, the latter years of his reign witnessed adverse impacts of his rule in particular, destruction of Safavid gardens and palaces.
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