Document Type : Research Paper
Authors
1 Associate Professor, Department of Urban Planning and Design, Faculty of Art and Architecture, Shiraz University,
2 M.A. Student in Urban Design, Department of Urban Planning, Faculty of Art and Architecture, Shiraz University
Abstract
Multisensory perception of urban spaces, particularly the role of non-visual senses such as olfaction, remains an underexplored area within urban studies. The present study aims to conduct a systematic analysis of smellscape perception in the historic Vakil Bazaar of Shiraz and to elucidate its role in shaping users' sensory experience. Grounded in the theoretical framework of smellscape and adopting a mixed-method approach, this research seeks to address the following questions: How is the smellscape perceived within this bazaar? Which odor sources exert the most significant influence on user experience? And what relationships exist among olfactory perception, subjective perception, and overall spatial perception?
The research employs a descriptive-analytical methodology based on field data collection. The identification and classification of dominant odors within the study area were carried out using the novel scent-walk technique. Perceptual data were gathered through structured questionnaires administered to a randomly selected sample of 120 space users. Key indicators assessed included odor intensity, pleasantness, spatial extent of diffusion, and odor harmony. Data analysis was performed using correlation tests in SPSS software.
The findings reveal that odors associated with traditional land uses—particularly herbal medicine shops (attari) and carpet workshops—exert the greatest impact on users' olfactory perception and function as identity-defining elements of the space. In contrast, odors emanating from newer commercial uses exhibit significantly lower levels of pleasantness and harmonic integration. Furthermore, a statistically significant correlation was observed among olfactory perception indicators, subjective perception, and overall spatial perception. The study concludes that acknowledging smellscape as an integral component of urban intangible heritage can effectively contribute to enhancing the experiential quality of historic spaces and strengthening the sense of place.
Keywords
Main Subjects
)