Examining the Impact of Semantic Axes of Form Structure from Herdeg’s Perspective on Place Identity in the Caravanserais and Saras of the Historical Bazaar of Qazvin

Aims: This study examines the impact of the physical and structural elements of the Qazvin Bazaar—particularly saras and caravanserais—on place identity and users’ spatial experience. It focuses on seven structural–semantic axes of spatial form: the Central–Functional, Symmetry–Interaction, Visual, Movement–Access, Spiritual, Horizontal–Vertical, and Spatial–Connecting axes, and their influence on three dimensions of Place Identity: Social Interactions, Spatial Realm, and Visual Sensitivity. Methodology: The research employs a hybrid qualitative–quantitative methodology: initially, a qualitative morphological and interpretive analysis of spatial structures was conducted to identify patterns, hierarchies, and functional relationships; the findings informed the development of a quantitative cross-case matrix that systematically compared nine saras and caravanserais within the bazaar. Spatial coherence, functional hierarchy, and the measurable contribution of each axis to social and perceptual experiences were assessed using operationally defined indicators. Findings: Results show that large, multi-centered caravanserais such as Sa’d al-Saltaneh and spatially expansive saras such as Vazir, scoring high across centrality, visual extent, and movement axes, have the strongest measurable influence on Social Interactions, place attachment, and Visual Sensitivity. Smaller, single-courtyard saras, including Haj Reza and Dalan Deraz, provide complementary local and guild-focused functions, with limited Territoriality and moderate social engagement. The study operationalizes form–meaning coherence through observable spatial relationships, demonstrating how aligned structural axes, circulation patterns, and hierarchical organization reinforce Place Identity. Conclusion: These findings provide a replicable analytical framework for evaluating the relationship between spatial structure and place identity in historical Iranian–Islamic bazaars and highlight the practical significance of preserving cultural heritage in contemporary architectural and urban planning practices.