The Imperial Bank Treasury, part of the historic Imperial Bank building in Tehran’s Toopkhaneh Square, is a masterpiece of Qajar and early Pahlavi architecture, constructed between 1927 and 1929. Originally the central office of the Imperial Bank of Persia, this structure was designed with European influences blended with traditional Iranian elements and is now a section of the Bank Tejarat Museum. The treasury, as the secure heart of the building, stands out for its distinctive architectural features.
One of the most notable aspects of the treasury’s design is its thick, robust walls, inspired by European Romanesque style. Built to safeguard valuable assets such as banknotes and securities, these walls are constructed from brick and stone, engineered to withstand theft and natural damage. The use of pointed arches and muqarnas-decorated columns in the interior reflects a fusion of Iranian artistry with Western structural techniques. Delicate tilework and intricate plaster decorations, especially around the treasury entrances, add a regal touch to the space.
The interior layout follows a basilica plan, featuring a tall central area across two floors, with limited natural light to enhance security. The wooden ceiling, combined with ribbed vaulting patterns, creates a harmonious aesthetic reminiscent of Achaemenid grandeur. Additionally, underground passageways connected to the treasury, uncovered during restoration, highlight the ingenious design for secure and discreet access.
Despite damage from wear and tear, as well as demolitions in recent decades, restoration efforts have aimed to preserve the building’s authenticity. The Imperial Bank Treasury, with its unique architecture and historical function, is not only a symbol of banking innovation in Iran but also a living testament to the art and techniques of a transitional architectural era.