The Evolution of Bazaar and Meydon

The Evolution of Bazaar and Meydon

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Part five of Abbas Amanat’s Lecture Series on the Intertwined Dualities and the Challenges of Modernity in Iran explores the profound transformation of two critical spaces in Iranian society: the Bazaar and the Meydon. These spaces were not merely physical marketplaces or fields but represented the intricate interplay between economy, politics, and religion in Iran’s historical trajectory. By tracing their evolution from the late Qajar period to the 1957 revolution, Amanat highlights the shifting power dynamics and socio-economic forces that redefined Iran’s traditional structures, providing a window into the broader transformation of the nation from a semi-autonomous economic system to a centralized modern state.

The Bazaar: From Central Pillar to Decline

The Bazaar historically played a pivotal role in Persian society. In ancient times, this marketplace served not only as an economic hub but also as a socio-political epicenter. As reflected in Ferdowsi’s Shahnameh, the Bazaar was a gathering place for social interactions and even revolutionary movements, such as Kaveh the Blacksmith’s rebellion.

Traditionally, the Bazaar operated as a semi-autonomous entity, sustained by its own capital, guilds, and merchants. Its close ties to the Ulama (religious scholars) further underscored its importance. Merchants paid religious taxes and often sent family members to religious schools to act as legal representatives, creating a deep interdependence between the Bazaar and religious institutions.

However, several factors contributed to the decline of the Bazaar over time:

  1. Global Market Integration: The growing reliance on global markets exposed Iran to economic vulnerabilities and trade fluctuations.
  2. Emergence of Modern Banking: Banks offering lower interest rates disrupted the Bazaar’s traditional financial systems, leading to widespread bankruptcies among merchants.
  3. Shift to Modern Commerce: Streets like Tehran’s Lalehzar emerged as hubs for modern businesses and consumer goods, drawing customers away from the traditional Bazaar.
  4. Oil Revenue: The discovery of oil provided the state with independent financial resources, reducing its reliance on the Bazaar and increasing state control.
  5. Migration of Merchants: Many wealthy merchants transitioned to modern business ventures, further weakening the Bazaar’s influence.
  6. Rise of the Meydon: Representing state power, the Meydon became increasingly prominent, relegating the Bazaar to a more conservative role often tied to the clergy.

By the mid-20th century, the Bazaar’s diminishing influence aligned it more closely with marginalized clergy, fostering a conservative outlook. It became a center of opposition to the Pahlavi regime, playing a crucial role in the 1957 revolution. Ironically, after the revolution, the Bazaar’s importance waned further as the Islamic Republic consolidated its power.

The Meydon: Symbol of State Power

While the Bazaar symbolized the traditional economy, the Meydon (field) embodied state presence and influence. Historically serving as caravanserais, Meydons provided security and facilitated the state’s oversight of the Bazaar. Iconic examples, such as Isfahan’s Naqsh-e Jahan Square, demonstrate how these spaces intersected with economic, political, and religious powers. This square connects key landmarks like the Shah Mosque, the Ali Qapu Palace, and the Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, highlighting the Meydon’s multifaceted role.

Over time, the Meydon evolved to support state-controlled trade, independent of the Bazaar. As the government’s economic power grew, its reliance on the Bazaar diminished, and the Meydon became a potent symbol of centralized authority.

A Broader Societal Shift

The transformation of the Bazaar and Meydon reflects Iran’s broader societal evolution from a traditional, semi-autonomous economic system to a modern state with centralized control. The shifting power dynamics between these two spaces symbolize the interplay of tradition and modernity that continues to shape Iranian society.

By examining this transformation, Abbas Amanat sheds light on the complexities of Iran’s history, illustrating how economic spaces serve as mirrors to societal and political change.


In line with the vision of the Iran 1400 Project, which aims to explore the evolution of ideas and institutions in Iran over the past century to foster informed discussions about its future, we are pleased to share a summary of Abbas Amanat’s lecture series titled “Intertwined Dualities and the Challenge of Modernity in Iran.” This series was produced by Aasoo, a non-profit organization affiliated with the Tasselmi Foundation. Aasoo promotes dialogue and tolerance through research, publications, and multimedia initiatives, fostering understanding and inclusion within Iranian society. We extend our gratitude to our friends at Aasoo for facilitating this enlightening lecture series, which addresses the complex challenges of modernity in Iran.

The lectures are conducted in Farsi, and the Iran 1400 Project provides a summary and key takeaways of each lecture in English to engage a broader audience.

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