摘要: Justification of Outstanding Universal Value　　The different traditional samples of Iranian architecture show that this kind of architecture has always turned towards ecological and social sustainabili

Justification of Outstanding Universal Value

　　The different traditional samples of Iranian architecture show that this kind of architecture has always turned towards ecological and social sustainability along with respect for natural resources and their preservation for posterity. Attention to the inexhaustible energy sources such as sun, wind, and their use for the improvement of living conditions has had a long history in Iran. The use of wind as a modified form of solar energy has had a long history in the arid areas of Iran. Structural elements such as Asbads which are compatible with environmental, climatic conditions and ecological capacities are unique and outstanding examples for this claim. Asbad is a self-revealing example for a local creative thought which has wisely made use of the existing potentials of the region to fulfill the needs of local communities. This technology in its entirety is a local phenomenon. All the factors effective in the construction and function of this device are local orientated, a phenomenon which is still dynamic and alive. The materials needs for the building of each individual part and also the workforce for the construction and operation of Asbad and even the layout methods give it a unique and outstanding value.  

　　Criterion (i): Iran has been one of pioneers in the use of clean energy. The creative ingenuity in harnessing natural forces such as wind, underground or runoff waters has clear examples in the farthest periods of architectural and social history of Iran, Asbad being one of them. With its hidden enigmas, the traditional architecture of Iran was able to provide the key for the communities' needs, communities which faced a plethora of shortcomings and climatic hazards. By making use of centuries old experiences, these communities managed to turn the threats into golden opportunities for themselves. Asbad is one of the samples displaying Iranian innovative ingenuity which has been erected in windy parts of the country (Sistan and Baluchistan). It is the most efficient method for the use of clean energy (wind) and it depicts the ingenuity of the communities living along the desert to deploy the natural forces and adapt themselves with them, it is a masterpiece and a good example of human ingenuity.

　　Criterion (ii): This set of windmills is considered as prototype of the windmills all over the world which the next generation of windmills ‘technology has been adapted from them. Furthermore, this cultural tradition has been promoted in similar regions. Architectural and technological improvement, utilizing sustainable energy compatible to the nature and from the point of architectural style related to the function, it is considered a unique architecture in the world. Enjoying numerous technical, architectural and engineering characteristics, Asbasds played a vital role in the life of local people in the past. Iran's asbads are the legacy of our ancestors who were able to make a suitable use of environmental conditions and transfer their knowledge to next generations. This industrial heritage stands at the highest degree of ingenuity in terms of use of nature, architectural design, materials and know-how. It also enjoys other outstanding features such as: the use of locally available materials, adaptability with the ecology, the use of renewable energies, innovation in architecture, avoidance of frivolity and inward-looking orientation.

　　Criterion (iv): Asbads as a unique industrial, architectural sample of Iran is in fact a mechanical machine which converts wind energy into other forms of energy. The nature of this integrated architectural structure was a kind of technological mutation in the use of wind energy. Asbads are exclusive Iranian structures which despite their simple mechanism enjoy a wise and methodical design, enabling them to control destructive winds and turn them useful.

　　Criterion (v): Technically and technologically, windmills from Sistan to khorasan, are outstanding examples of a technical, architectural collection, forming an exceptional landscape which is considered as an important phase in development of human knowledge and technology. Furthermore, using earthen materials and plants demonstrate this system interaction with its environment. Asbads are a clear example for concerns for natural resources and their preservation in order to engender prosperity and comfort, without endangering the environment. It is a perfect example for man's ingenuity and innovation to improve human life by creating aerodynamic property in order to better absorb wind energy. The use of locally available and abundant materials in the area and the use of renewable energy by converting it to mechanical energy to grind grains and the use of local plants for the covering of the sails are all indicative of the environment-friendly nature of asbads.