Analysis of Environmental Factors Influencing the Sense of Tranquility in the Architecture of Religious Spaces through Biofeedback Measurement of Users’ Physiological Responses

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Ali Sadeghi habibabad 1
Pietro Matracchi 2
1 Assistant Professor, Architectural Engineering Department, Faculty of Technical and Engineering, Yasouj University, Yasouj, Iran. Postal Code:7591874934
2 Full Professor, Department of Architecture, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.
10.48311/bsnt.2025.116684.82878
Abstract
Aims: Iranian architecture during the Islamic period exemplifies the profound influence that architectural spaces can have on the human mind. Spaces designed by past architects were not only distinguished by their aesthetic and cultural value but also effectively conveyed a sense of tranquility and spirituality. This study aims to identify and analyze the factors contributing to the creation of a sense of calm in Islamic and religious architecture, focusing on the Shah Cheragh Shrine in Shiraz as a representative case study.
 
Methods: A mixed-methods approach was employed. Initially, a descriptive-analytical examination of the shrine’s spatial and sensory characteristics was conducted. This was followed by experimental and survey-based methods to assess users’ physiological and psychological responses. In the experimental phase, 17 participants’ physiological indicators—including heart rate, pulse, blood pressure, and body temperature—were measured while they experienced the shrine’s architectural spaces. In the survey phase, 200 pilgrims responded to a researcher-designed questionnaire addressing perceptions of tranquility, focus, and spiritual experience within the space.
 
Findings: Results indicated that the spatial and sensory elements of the Shah Cheragh Shrine exerted a significant positive influence on participants’ mental states based on Islami-Iranian Identiy.
 
Conclusion: The study underscores the importance of human-centered design in religious architecture, emphasizing attention to sensory and physiological dimensions. Findings suggest that Islamic architectural principles can effectively promote mental well-being and spiritual experience. Deliberate and thoughtful design of religious spaces can therefore yield lasting positive effects on users, supporting both psychological health and enriched experiential engagement.

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  • Receive Date 29 September 2025
  • Revise Date 14 October 2025
  • Accept Date 30 December 2025