چكيده به لاتين
This dissertation explores the morphological transformations of sacred cities following religious mega-events, with a focus on Najaf after the 2003 Iraq War. The Arbaeen event, one of the largest religious mega-events globally, plays a critical role in shaping Najaf’s urban morphology, as the city serves as both a starting and ending point for this pilgrimage. Local "Zuwar" often arrive and depart on the same day, while international "Zuwar" stay for several days, driving the construction of hotels near the shrine of Imam Ali and guesthouses ("Mokebs") in both inner and outer city areas. The motivations of event hosts, including investors and "Mokeb" owners, heavily influence these transformations. This study aims to understand the impact of the Arbaeen event on land use changes and the resulting morphological transformations in Najaf. Specifically, it investigates how the motivations of event hosts affect these transformations, explores the characteristics of urban morphological changes resulting from the event, and examines the side effects these changes have on the local community. By analyzing features along the event's route—from the city center to suburban areas—and focusing on the urban legacy of the Arbaeen event, the study provides a comprehensive understanding of these processes. The dissertation employs an exploratory study methodology to identify variables driving morphological changes in Najaf, extracted through a literature review. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research integrates quantitative analysis through maps and geographic information systems to study urban legacies, alongside qualitative analysis of interviews, observations, textual documents, and social media monitoring to examine social, cultural, and religious dimensions. The Delphi method was used to validate and refine variables related to the Arbaeen event’s impact on Najaf’s morphology. Findings reveal that the Arbaeen event has led to significant morphological changes driven by economic and intangible motivations. In the city center, investors reshape the urban fabric by converting residential buildings into hotels due to economic incentives. In the suburbs, "Mokeb" owners purchase land and construct free guesthouses, motivated by religious aspirations for intercession, mercy, and pride in tribal heritage. The study also highlights political dimensions, such as the strengthening of Najaf’s position as a religious hub, and social aspects like fostering unity and showcasing the region’s hospitality culture. The research identifies that intangible side effects—such as enhanced religious, social, cultural, and media dimensions—positively impact the local community, while tangible side effects, like urban and economic changes, often have negative consequences. The dissertation argues that urban planning for cities hosting mega-events must address the underlying motivations driving morphological transformations. Aligning urban morphology with the city’s religious, social, and political values can result in more sustainable outcomes. The study further recommends channeling religious and spiritual motives to prevent material-driven transformations that distort the urban fabric, fostering sincere intentions among "Mokeb" organizers, and addressing practical issues like congestion through infrastructure improvements, such as a metro system between Najaf and Karbala and adequate parking facilities. Additionally, enhancing tribal pride and hospitality culture can be leveraged to create positive urban legacies. This research contributes to the limited body of literature on the effects of religious mega-events on urban morphology, particularly in the context of the Arbaeen event. It underscores that the rapid competition among "Mokeb" owners, fueled by religious, socio-cultural, and political factors, is the main driver behind tangible and intangible transformations. The insights gained may assist researchers, urban planners, festival organizers, and public authorities in managing event cities more effectively and mitigating negative impacts.
