Experiencing place identity: A phenomenological study of visitor perception in old Jeddah

Background: Jeddah (Al-Balad), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, embodies a rich tapestry of cultural and architectural heritage that shapes its unique place identity. Methods: This study explores the phenomenological experience of visitors to Old Jeddah, focusing on how sensory perceptions and spatial interactions contribute to their understanding of place identity. By employing a mixed-method approach combining in-depth interviews and on-site observations, this research uncovers the nuanced ways in which visitors engage with the physical and intangible heritage of Al-Balad. Findings: The findings reveal three primary dimensions of visitor experience that enhance place identity: spatial nostalgia, where historical architecture evokes memories and emotional ties; sensory layering, wherein the interplay of sights, sounds, and smells enriches the cultural narrative; and interactive belonging, where participatory activities, such as heritage tours or artisan workshops, foster a deeper sense of connection. A key novelty lies in demonstrating how these sensory and spatial dimensions collectively form a dynamic and evolving sense of place identity, distinguishing Old Jeddah from other heritage sites. Conclusion: This study contributes to heritage literature by bridging phenomenology and place identity theory, while providing actionable insights for policymakers and conservationists to design visitor-centered interventions that strengthen cultural preservation and engagement. Novelty/Originality of this article: By prioritizing authentic, multisensory experiences, this research highlights the potential of Old Jeddah to remain a living heritage site that resonates across generations.研究背景：吉达（巴拉德老城）作为联合国教科文组织世界遗产（UNESCO World Heritage Site），承载着底蕴深厚的文化与建筑遗产，塑造了其独一无二的地方身份（place identity）特质。 研究方法：本研究聚焦吉达老城游客的现象学体验（phenomenological experience），探讨感官感知与空间互动如何助力游客理解地方身份。本研究采用结合深度访谈与实地观察的混合研究方法（mixed-method approach），揭示了游客与巴拉德老城有形与无形遗产互动的细腻路径。 研究发现：结果显示，三类核心游客体验维度可强化地方认同：其一为空间怀旧（spatial nostalgia），即历史建筑唤起游客的记忆与情感联结；其二为感官分层（sensory layering），即视觉、听觉与嗅觉的交织互动丰富了文化叙事；其三为互动式归属感（interactive belonging），即遗产导览、手作工坊等参与式活动助力游客建立更深层次的情感联结。本研究的关键创新之处在于，证实了这些感官与空间维度共同构成动态演化的地方认同感知，从而使吉达老城区别于其他遗产地。 研究结论：本研究将现象学与地方认同理论相结合，丰富了遗产研究领域的学术成果，同时为政策制定者与遗产保护者提供了可落地的实践启示，助力其设计以游客为中心的干预方案，强化文化保护与公众参与。 研究创新/原创性：本研究通过聚焦真实的多感官体验，凸显了吉达老城作为活态遗产地的潜力，使其能够跨越代际引发情感共鸣。