Sense of Place and Sacred Places: A Phenomenological Study of Ancestral Hall Spatial Narratives—The Shike Ancestral Hall, En Village, Guangdong

Based on the narrative perspective, this paper studies the spatial characteristics and cultural significance of the Shike Ancestral Hall in En Village, Guangdong, as a sacred building. By drawing on Lefebvre’s theory of spatial production, the physical space, cultural value, and community sentiment of the Shike Ancestral Hall are linked to explore its role in the sense of place, clan memory, and cultural identity. The study found that the combination of perceived, conceived, and lived space gives the Shike Ancestral Hall profound social, cultural, and religious significance. The ancestral hall is not only a material existence but also a vital link to maintain the emotional and cultural identity among clan members. Through the multi-sensory experience of the building, including light, sound, touch, and smell, the unique atmosphere of the sacred space is revealed, further deepening the need for sustainable development and protection of cultural heritage.