Document Type : Research Paper
Author
Department of Archaeology, University of Neyshabur, Neyshabur, Iran.
Abstract
A part of the identity and culture of the people of Iran has been preserved in the framework of native and local games. In Iran land, many local and diverse sports are performed in various ceremonies. Among these games that have gained a national aspect in Iranian culture is the game of polo, which has been passed down from one generation to the next and continues to exist. Polo has a high place in Iranian culture and has gone beyond a mere game and is connected with the value and intellectual system of Iranian society. Our understanding of the polo game relies more on historical texts, literature, and artifacts. But the gap that can be seen in this field is the examination of the phenomena and evidence of polo games from the perspective of intangible cultural heritage. Therefore, the purpose of the present article is to know the place, importance, and explanation of the polo match as one of the components of identity in the culture of Iranian people with a descriptive-analytical method. In order to achieve this goal, the game of polo has been considered in various fields of oral traditions, social customs, and performing arts. First, the toponyms that are connected with polo have been checked. Then, the evidence of playing polo among native and local games has been discussed. And it tried to identify the signs of polo and to express its similarities and differences among different regions. The result of the research showed that the polo game was customary not only among the nobles and elders but also among the ordinary people of Iran. Eleven places related to polo, as well as holding it in different regions of Iran, both on horseback and on foot, are a sign of people's deep connection with this game. The polo match has played an effective role not only as a national game but also as an efficient cultural element in the cultural and social life of Iranian society.This game has reflected the attitudes of Iranians in people's lives and has contributed to the continuity of their cultural traditions.
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