The Ancient Persian Air Conditioner: Lowering Indoor Temperatures by Ten Degrees

Did you know about the ancient Persian air conditioner? With desert air becoming more prevalent, it might be wise to adopt some architectural tricks from cultures in hot climates.

While modern technology allows us to adjust room temperatures at the push of a button, sustainable and natural cooling solutions are worth considering. For instance, Madrid has recently implemented an organic method of cooling streets used in the Middle East. 

Traditional Windcatchers: Nature's Air Conditioners

Strolling through the streets of Iran and Egypt, you'll notice structures resembling chimneys or bell towers protruding from rooftops. These are windcatchers, organic air conditioners developed thousands of years ago by desert dwellers. These architectural marvels capture the wind and direct it downward into living spaces or underground storage rooms while expelling warm air accumulated inside.

Both Iran and Egypt claim the invention of this life-saving device, but Iran seems to have a stronger case. Archaeological evidence from a Zoroastrian fire temple, built around 4000 BC, reveals chimney-like structures without ash remains, indicating their use as windcatchers. In contrast, evidence from Egypt dates back to around 1300 BC, showing triangular structures on noble residences that likely served a similar purpose.

Egyptian windcatchers, often triangular and discreetly integrated into roofs, can be seen atop the Citadel in Cairo. Iranian windcatchers, however, are typically rectangular and open on all four sides, designed according to the prevailing wind direction. In Yazd, a UNESCO World Heritage city and the center of Zoroastrianism, hexagonal and octagonal windcatchers are common due to the multidirectional wind.

In Maybod, near Yazd, the wind comes predominantly from one direction, so windcatchers are designed to avoid the sand-filled desert air blowing from the north. Traditional Persian homes did not rely solely on windcatchers for climate control. These homes featured a central courtyard and were divided into summer and winter wings to optimize sunlight exposure throughout the year. Windcatchers were placed in the summer wing to cool the living area effectively.

In some cases, air from the windcatcher was channeled to the basement, where it passed over a pool of water, further cooling the air. This water came from surrounding mountains through underground channels, creating a natural and efficient cooling system.

Studies show that windcatchers can reduce indoor temperatures by up to ten degrees. Despite their effectiveness, many people in these regions now prefer electric air conditioners. However, modern adaptations of windcatchers are still in use, such as those incorporated into the design of Qatar University.