Factors influencing a sense of belonging in the regeneration of Noghan Neighborhood in the residential fabric near the Imam Reza Shrine

One of the main characteristics of environment-human relationship is a sense of belonging to place, which plays a crucial role in making him remain there. A sense of belonging to place among residents of historic area makes it sustain in a variety of aspects. Noghan Neighborhood situated in a area near the Imam Reza Shrine in Mashhad lies within the area of rehabilitation and renovation. Considering the significance of a sense of belonging to place as an important factor influencing the regeneration of old neighborhood, the study attempts to identify and offer factors associated with a sense of belonging for residents and pilgrims living in the Noghan Neighborhood (as an integral part in the regeneration). The research method is qualitative and its practical process consists in the use of an open questionnaire and observation. The results of the research suggest that Imam Reza Shrine in the vicinity of this neighborhood is the most important factor influencing a sense of belonging; because of the power of such environmental factor over time, the understanding of residents have been affected, which extends their duration of residence and bring them satisfaction. Other environmental and individual factors influencing the sense of belonging are in the next ranks compared to this factor.