The Perception of the “Sacred Place” of Xi’an Daxingshan Temple from the Perspective of Lefebvre’s Spatial Triad Theory

Abstract

Religious architecture has long been integral to world civilization. Amid increasing urban stress and a growing need for spiritual anchoring, Buddhist temples are reemerging as vital place of cultural heritage and inner healing. This study applies Henri Lefebvre’s spatial triad theory and the “sense of place” theory to examine the historical roots of “perceived space” the design intentions within “conceived space,” and the experience of “sacred place” in “lived space.” Using Xi’an’s Daxingshan Temple as a case study, the research combines ethnographic and phenomenological methods, including field observations and interviews. Findings reveal how spatial sequence, synesthetic design, and symbolic ornamentation collectively shape “sacred place” perception. The study ultimately offers insights for creating emotionally resonant and spiritually restorative environments, bridging heritage preservation and contemporary urban well-being.