Shokatieh School; a pillar of knowledge in South Khorasan Province
The Shokatieh School is one of the historical buildings in the city of Birjand, South Khorasan Province. Recognized as the third Iranian school established in the modern style, it follows the traditional maktab khaneh (educational institutions). Currently, the building is 124 years old. Construction of the Shokatieh School began in 1890, funded by the endowments of Amir Esmail Khan, known as Shokat al-Mulk I, and was completed in 1894.
After the Dar ul-Funun Higher School and shortly after the Roshdiyeh Primary School in Tabriz, the Shokatieh School in Birjand is acknowledged as the third school of this new type in Iran. Initially functioning as an elementary school, a high school was later added, and in 1922, the Emarat Qaleh Girls School was opened, ISNA wrote.
The historic Shokatieh School is located adjacent to Montazeri (Khaki) Street within the historical fabric of Birjand. The building is situated in an alley with a relatively steep incline, positioned lower than the street level, with entrances found at its lowest point.
Constructed in the Iranian desert architectural style, the Shokatieh School is designed for four seasons, featuring a central courtyard surrounded by connected spaces. The courtyard occupies a significant portion of the building, paved with bricks, and in the center lies a pond with a platform approximately 30 centimeters high. The entrance boasts a vaulted arch decorated with intricate stucco work.
This school is a single-ivan structure with a tall and magnificent ivan. Its architecture includes elements typical of Iranian design, such as the entrance, vestibule, corridors, ivan, rooms surrounding the courtyard, shahneshin, and a bath. The building has two entrances: one on the southern side and the other on the western side.
The design of the Shokatieh School, utilizing the central courtyard, achieves optimal functionality and creates balanced environmental conditions. Inside, a beautiful kolah firangi (a hexagon shaped building) can be found in the hall, adorned with exquisite decorative patterns. Additionally, the building features stunning stucco work, decorative brackets, and intricate brickwork.
The Shokatieh School has played a significant role in enriching the science and culture of Birjand, Greater Khorasan, the East, and other regions of the country. Many of its graduates have excelled on national and international stages, contributing valuable services to the academic community.