Ice production in the desert 2400 years ago
Natural refrigeration is an architectural method for producing natural ice and preserving food.
Around 2400 years ago, during the Persian Empire, tons of ice was produced in the desert with this structure, examples of this structure still exist, including in Tabriz-Iran
Dome refrigerators were shaped like thick walls of baked brick and mortar, and in winter water was collected from seas or from melting mountains.
This water would reach refrigerators through channels.
The water was then divided into small ponds inside the arch. The water froze over night due to the low desert temperatures.
After freezing, the ice was cut into blocks and was kept at the bottom of the refrigerator, which had the coldest temperature.
The dome shape and natural insulation of the walls helps keep ice cold for months.
During the summer, stored ice was used to cool drinks, maintain food, or even use for medical expenses when necessary.
