Evolving Cultural Experience of Historical Places: From Livability to Visibility (A Case Study of Naqsh-e Jahan Square in Isfahan)
| Autor: | Seyed Mahdi Etemadifard, Amirmohammad Niroumand |
|---|---|
| Jazyk: | perština |
| Rok vydání: | 2024 |
| Předmět: | |
| Zdroj: | Strategic Research on Social Problems, Vol 13, Iss 2, Pp 93-116 (2024) |
| Druh dokumentu: | article |
| ISSN: | 3041-8623 03312348 |
| DOI: | 10.22108/srspi.2024.141523.1998 |
| Popis: | IntroductionHistorical places possess distinct physical forms and materialities, but their modes of use and engagement can undergo transformations over time. In recent decades, a notable shift in the way people interact with and experience these spaces has become apparent, which is the focus of this research. The question arises whether, instead of serving as a means for sharing warm, meaningful, and specific atmospheric experiences, historical places have now become primarily beautiful vistas that must only be briefly admired due to contemporary demands, urban haste, and the unique living conditions enabled by new media. Isfahan's Naqsh-e Jahan Square, one of Iran's most prominent historical sites, has hosted a variety of spaces and physical forms, each reflecting a particular quality of urban life in different historical periods. Can a distinct and pervasive mode of engagement with Naqsh-e Jahan Square be identified, where its dominant form significantly differs from its previous forms? How do the people present in the square experience this change? And what are the key factors driving this transformation in the cultural experience of the site?. This study aimed to explore the evolving nature of people's interactions with and perceptions of this historic place, examining whether it had shifted from a space of lived experience to one primarily of visual consumption and spectacle. Understanding the underlying factors behind this potential transformation could provide valuable insights into the changing cultural significance of historical urban environments. Materials and MethodsGiven the nature of the research topic and the requirements of the field, this study employed an ethnographic approach. Ethnography involves direct observation, participation in daily activities, interaction, and interviews within the natural environment. The core of the ethnographic work was participatory observation.Through systematic observation of Naqsh-e Jahan Square at different times of day from November 2023 to May 2024, spanning consecutive and often continuous days, the researchers aimed to provide a comprehensive description of the various situations and activities occurring in the field. Detailed notes were taken to document how participants interacted with different parts of the square.During the observation periods, relevant photographs were also captured. Some of the most salient images will be briefly described in the findings section.For the interview component, the researchers first selected informants, who had been theoretically and practically engaged with Naqsh-e Jahan Square for many years. Additional interviewees were recruited from among the merchants operating in the four sides of the square and the adjacent covered market. Informal conversational interviews were also conducted based on the specific situations encountered during the researchers' presence in the square.Over the 7-month period, a total of 17 individuals (11 men and 6 women aged approximately 24 to 65 years) were interviewed and their concepts were coded and analyzed.Another method employed in this research was the review and secondary analysis of relevant documents and data. These materials included books and theses written about Naqsh-e Jahan Square, as well as the data obtained from the square's managers and the information websites of Isfahan municipality.The combined results of these field-based and analytical methods supported the researchers in addressing the research questions and developing a comprehensive understanding of the transformations in the cultural experience of this historic site. Discussion of Results & ConclusionThe observations indicated a shift in the use of mosques within Naqsh-e Jahan Square, transitioning from places of worship to tourist attractions. This was evidenced by the presence of numerous photographers at different times and the continuous efforts to enhance the square's visibility and framing for optimal visual perspectives.The interview findings revealed a focus among policymakers on the desirable representation of the square as a priority. This approach of privileging visual representation appeared to be in conflict with the habitual practices and lived experiences of those present in the square. The review of relevant documents also made the researchers aware of the physical changes to the space over the years, the numerous regulations imposed, and the hosting of special events - all aimed at sustaining the policies of visually representing the square.In relation to the research questions and methodology, the findings indicated the emergence of a particular mode of engagement with the square in recent decades. This shift appeared to be linked to broader social changes within Iranian society and, in many cases, beyond the country's borders.Urban social spaces have traditionally been integral to the urban fabric. However, the changes observed in the rhythm and quality of presence within Naqsh-e Jahan Square in a two-way interaction with the subjects present had led to further transformations in relation to the city and even national elements.Whereas the visual beauty of the square was previously effective in creating and sustaining other meanings, this research suggested that the possibilities of the square were now arranged primarily to enable an appropriate visual experience. Individuals and movements could now gain visibility by positioning themselves within the grandeur of the square, a meaning that was markedly different from the previous lived experiences and conceptions of this historic place.In conclusion, the findings of this study pointed to a transition in the cultural significance of Naqsh-e Jahan Square, from a space of shared, meaningful atmospheric experiences to one that was increasingly dominated by the imperatives of visual representation and spectacle. Understanding the factors driving this transformation can provide valuable insights into the evolving role of historical urban environments in contemporary society. |
| Databáze: | Directory of Open Access Journals |
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