The Role of Symbolism in Shaping Sensory Perception of Place: A Study on Memorial Architecture

Urban living is deeply intertwined with the culture of a society, where cultural symbols shape individuals' perceptions by conveying foundational beliefs, shared values, and social behaviors. In the fast-paced modern world, dominated by the challenges of industrial urbanization, individuals increasingly yearn for a connection to their heritage, seeking elements of the past as a means of reclaiming lost ideals and identity. This study focuses on urban landmarks in Iran, a nation renowned for its rich architectural and urban planning heritage. The research categorizes prominent city landmarks to identify effective models for strengthening the sense of place in contemporary urban planning and architecture. By emphasizing the historical memory of citizens through cultural, historical, and memorial symbols, this study explores how familiar landmarks contribute to urban identity. The methodology employed is a combination of literature review and content analysis, forming the foundation of this quantitative research. Findings reveal that stories associated with landmarks play a pivotal role in how individuals ascribe meaning and value to places, ultimately shaping their identity. Landmarks, as integral components of the urban fabric, influence the functionality and cohesion of cities, with their presence fostering emotional connections between people and their environment. Furthermore, the research highlights the significance of integrating familiar cultural symbols and patterns in strategic urban locations, which not only support social activities but also reflect the cultural and regional identity of the community. Cities become dynamic and vibrant when their design aligns with the cultural and social values of their inhabitants, underscoring the critical role of landmarks in fostering a sense of belonging and continuity.

کلیدواژه ها:

urban Landmarks ، symbolism ، Iranian architecture ، sense of place