Yakhchāl (dated 400 CE), which means “ice pit” in Persian, is an ancient type of evaporative cooler or refrigerator. These structures were used to store ice and food throughout the year in arid regions of the Middle East, particularly Iran long before modern electric powered refrigerator. They were built mostly in the Dasht-e Lut and Dasht-e-Kavir deserts areas of Persia (modern-day Iran) to store ice and preserve food.
The design of yakhchāls varied, but they typically consisted of a subterranean storage space, often several meters deep, with a dome-shaped structure above ground.
A bâdgir and qanat utilizing evaporative cooling for a building–like a yakhchāl
Interior of yakhchal in Meybod, Iran showing conical chimney and ice house interior
The subterranean part was used for storing ice, which was usually brought from nearby mountains during the winter and stored through the summer months. The thick walls of the yakhchāl, often made of a special mixture of clay, sand, ash, and other materials, helped to insulate the interior, keeping it cool despite the hot desert temperatures outside.
The above-ground dome, usually made of mud brick or other materials, contained openings and vents that allowed cool air to enter and circulate, facilitating the ice-making process during the winter.
Yakhchāls are not only remarkable for their functional design but also for their architectural elegance. Many of them featured intricate geometric patterns and decorations, showcasing the craftsmanship of the builders.
While many yakhchāls have fallen into disrepair over the centuries, some still stand as reminders of ancient ingenuity and serve as historical landmarks.
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