Journal of Urban Studies on Space and Place

Abstract Introduction
 Public spaces have always been fundamental to the urban fabric, acting as physical venues for social interactions and enduring symbols of cultural and social identity. Across civilizations, such spaces have provided a sense of continuity, reflecting their societies' values, priorities, and aspirations. In Iranian architecture, public spaces such as squares, markets, mosques, and gardens hold particular importance. These spaces were thoughtfully designed over various historical periods to address a spectrum of needs, from facilitating trade and social gatherings to fostering spiritual and recreational experiences. Their defining features include a focus on human scale, climate-appropriate designs, and a deep respect for the social, cultural, and economic contexts in which they were embedded.
In contemporary times, the rapid pace of urbanization, changing lifestyles, and evolving societal values have transformed the role and expectations of public spaces. Once primarily centered on singular or localized functions, modern public spaces are expected to address a broader and more diverse array of needs. They must accommodate the demands of dense urban living, provide platforms for cultural expression and community engagement, and adapt to changing mobility and technology use patterns. Designing multifunctional spaces that cater to these diverse requirements has become a challenge and a necessity in urban planning and architecture.
Beyond merely fulfilling physical needs, contemporary public spaces must also foster a sense of connection among citizens and between individuals and their environment. They should provide opportunities for social interactions, encourage recreation, and strengthen the sense of belonging and identity within urban communities. These spaces can unite, bridging generational and cultural divides while promoting inclusivity and accessibility for all societal groups.
This research investigates the successful attributes of traditional public spaces in Iran, uncovering their enduring relevance in today's urban contexts. By analyzing principles such as human-centered design, multifunctionality, and integration with cultural and historical values, the study proposes guidelines for creating contemporary public spaces. While addressing the practical needs of modern society, these spaces must also serve as custodians of cultural heritage, ensuring that the identity and legacy of their communities endure amidst the dynamism of urban evolution.
 Methodology
This research employs a historical-evolutionary method combined with a qualitative approach. Historical documents and sources related to Iranian architecture and urban planning during the Ilkhanid, Timurid, Safavid, and Qajar periods were analyzed in the initial stage. These periods were selected for their profound influence on the development of public spaces. Content analysis of these historical sources focused on uncovering the spaces' architectural, social, and cultural characteristics.
In the second stage, field studies were conducted in Isfahan, examining locations such as Shahid Rajai Parks, Nazhvan, Mardavij, Khaju Bridge, Si-o-Se Pol Bridge, Shahrestan Bridge, and the Metropol Complex on Chaharbagh Street. Citizen interviews and direct observations of how these spaces are utilized provided insight into contemporary needs and expectations. Finally, the data were synthesized using comparative analysis to propose design solutions tailored to modern multifunctional spaces.
Conclusion
 This research analyzes successful historical collective space design principles and adapts them to contemporary needs, yielding valuable insights. Key findings include:
Contemporary Markets: Modern markets should integrate public and private spaces to facilitate social and commercial interactions.
Squares as Cultural Hubs: Public squares must be designed for cultural, educational, and recreational activities and serve as venues for community engagement.
Gardens as Educational Centers: Green spaces should incorporate educational and cultural elements alongside recreational uses.
Cultural Identity in Design: Emphasizing local cultural identity in public spaces can enhance community attachment and collective identity.
Overall, applying successful historical patterns to contemporary design can improve urban life quality and create spaces that address citizens' cultural, social, and psychological needs.

Abstract Introduction
Considering the importance of the indicators of a happy city in improving the quality of life of citizens and overall significant impact in achieving sustainable urban development, examining the status of a happy city and the factors affecting it can be an essential tool for improving the level of a happy town by city managers and those involved in the development of the metropolis. Isfahan. In this regard, the evaluation of each of the quality indicators of the urban environment in three physical, economic, and social dimensions has been done. This research was conducted to answer the question, What is the level of Isfahan metropolis in terms of happy city indicators? Which components have had the most significant influence on the city's indicators?
Methodology
The purpose of this research is applied-developmental research. In terms of its nature, it is a descriptive-analytical research, and the research method is correlational analysis. Two library and field methods have been used to collect the information needed for the research. The research area is the metropolis of Isfahan. The data analysis in this research was done in two stages. In the first stage, to measure the status of the happy city indicators in the study area, the study's sample size was estimated to be 315 households through Cochran's formula. In this research, a random sampling method was used, the sampling error level was 5% and the samples were selected with a confidence level of 95%; In the GIS environment, the samples were randomly selected using the Hawths Tools function; From the Sampling Tools menu, by selecting the Generate Random Points option, 315 samples were chosen as points. The validity of the questionnaire was also determined using the pre-test, and its reliability was assessed using Cronbach's alpha in the SPSS software environment, which indicates the high consistency and reliability of the data.
Research Findings
According to the factor loadings extracted in the standardized model in the LISREL software (Table 3) in Isfahan metropolis, it is stated in this way that out of 35 components, 27 components were selected as practical components (with different effect intensity), into nine indicators. Physically, nine components out of 13 social indicators, 10 components, and eight components out of 13 economic indicators were left as practical components, and eight components were omitted due to the coefficient being less than 0.3%. On the other hand, it should be noted that in the physical index, the quality of lighting at night with a factor load of 0.93 is the most relevant and influential; In the social dimension, the level of satisfaction with feelings and mental health with a factor load of 0.91, the level of satisfaction of the residents with the income of the head of the household, the job security of the head of the household, in the economic dimension of the household with 0.79% are the priority.
 
 
Conclusion
Today, cities have become fragmented and chaotic places, significantly affecting the residents' vitality. The rapid growth of urbanization in the metropolis of Isfahan has caused critical and spiritual problems, and the increase in social vitality and the factors affecting the happiness of citizens can effectively solve these problems. Therefore, it is necessary to evaluate each of the indicators of the happy city and identify the influential factors in its promotion. Therefore, in line with the research hypotheses, the main goal of this research is to measure the indicators of a happy city by relying on the practical physical and social components. It is economic in the metropolis of Isfahan; The results of the research show that Isfahan metropolis, in terms of having happy city indicators, in order of priority, physical index with 0.511%, social index with 0.287% and finally economic index with 0.266% have the most role in the city indicators. have been happy in the studied area, which indicates the importance of the physical dimension compared to other dimensions.
Comparing the current research with other researches, Oraki et al. (2018) analyzed the spatial factors affecting the happy city from the perspective of the citizens, and the researcher's findings show that the most important influencing factor is the physical characteristics, including the quality of the landscape, which The present research is consistent. Gemini et al. (1400) evaluated and analyzed the state of the happy city and identified its determinants in small urban spaces. They concluded that physical-spatial structure has the most role in social vitality, and low participation has the least role. It is effective. Also, Samavati et al. (2017) identified factors affecting happiness in urban public spaces, and the results of multiple regression analysis showed that at the level of social characteristics, the sub-index of satisfaction with feeling and physical health has the most significant effect on the level of a happy city. It is consistent with the present study.

Abstract Introduction
Processes of social polarization have increasingly reshaped urban public spaces through systemic inequalities, restrictive policies, and uncontrolled development. Mechanisms such as hostile architecture, unequal spatial distribution of amenities, technological dominance, and reductionist planning have profoundly altered the meaning and function of public space, intensifying spatial alienation. The legacy of these tactics is a diminished public sphere, fading symbolic value, and erosion of the collective urban spirit—conditions that perpetuate a self-reinforcing cycle of exclusion and detachment. A genealogical reading of this history reveals how successive intellectual and structural currents have chipped away at social capital and undermined the activist role of public spaces. Ignoring the escalating dynamics of spatial inequality is no longer possible; understanding them is essential for reclaiming inclusive urban commons.
Methodology
To trace and contextualize the genealogy of spatial alienation, this study employs a systematic literature review aligned with the PRISMA  protocol and a scientometric analysis using VOSviewer. Three authoritative databases—Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar—were queried for the period 1867 – 2025 with Boolean search strings that paired ‘spatial alienation’ with terms such as ‘urban exclusion,’ ‘public space commodification,’ and ‘right to the city.’ After duplicate removal and abstract screening, full-text eligibility was assessed against peer-review status and thematic relevance. Bibliometric indicators (co-authorship networks, citation counts, and keyword co-occurrences) were then visualized to reveal prevailing research clusters and conceptual lineages. Complementary qualitative coding captured theoretical inflections—from early structuralist explanations through critical and post-modern turns—allowing a layered interpretation of how discourses on power, space, and inequality have evolved.
Result and discussion
‏The findings demonstrate that spatial alienation emerges as a complex and multidimensional phenomenon deeply embedded in macroeconomic, social, and spatial mechanisms. It reflects entrenched power relations, uneven resource distribution, and exclusionary spatial production processes within urban contexts. The systematic literature review and scientometric analysis reveal that dominant theoretical frameworks—primarily rooted in Western structuralist and critical theories, as developed by Lefebvre, Harvey, Foucault, and Bourdieu—have shaped much of the discourse on spatial alienation. These frameworks effectively expose power dynamics, spatial inequality, and social exclusion yet often marginalize local lived experiences and contextual specificities.
Moreover, the scientometric analysis highlights a concentration of knowledge production within a limited network of institutions and scholars, which narrows the diversity of perspectives and overlooks critical local narratives. This centralization of research limits the inclusion of varied geographic and cultural contexts, especially those from the Global South, where the manifestations of spatial alienation may differ significantly due to unique socio-economic and cultural factors.
The results emphasize expanding analytical approaches by integrating interdisciplinary and cross-cultural perspectives. Incorporating diverse epistemologies and acknowledging local experiences can enhance spatial alienation studies' theoretical robustness and practical relevance.
From a policy and planning perspective, the study underlines the imperative for equity-focused urban strategies that systematically address spatial alienation's economic, social, cultural, and physical dimensions. Such methods require revisiting spatial organization, promoting equitable resource redistribution, and fostering social cohesion through participatory and culturally sensitive governance. Effective interventions must simultaneously interrogate urban form, power relations, and dominant discourses to disrupt cycles of alienation and revive the social vitality of public spaces.
In conclusion, confronting spatial alienation demands a comprehensive, multi-level approach capable of intervening at individual, institutional, and structural scales. Beyond physical infrastructure, policies must address social, cultural, and psychological dimensions to facilitate meaningful social interaction, identity formation, and inclusivity in urban environments. Continuous reflexivity and adaptability in urban policy are essential to respond to ongoing economic and spatial transformations, ensuring resilient and just urban futures.
Conclusion
 ‏Spatial alienation is neither an inevitable by-product of urban growth nor a purely technological challenge; it is the cumulative outcome of structural inequalities, disciplinary practices, and the commodification of space. Reversing this trajectory demands a paradigm shift toward justice-centered, community-led planning that treats public space as a collective right rather than a market commodity. Only through such integrated, multi-scalar interventions can cities break the cycle of alienation, restore the social vitality of public realms, and realize the inclusive promise of the "right to the city.

Abstract Introduction
Empowering women in the decision-making environment of the Isfahan metropolis is regarded as a socio-cultural necessity that plays a key role in enhancing transparency, justice, and efficiency in urban management. This process allows for more accurate attention to women's needs and challenges in urban policymaking. Women's active participation in urban decision-making processes not only increases the diversity of perspectives but also contributes to sustainable development and the fair distribution of urban resources and services, ultimately helping to reduce gender inequalities.
Theoretical Framework
‏The insufficient participation of women in urban decision-making structures may result in the neglect of crucial issues such as urban safety, access to public services, and work-life balance—all of which have a direct impact on citizens' quality of life. This study draws on theories of social justice, participatory governance, and gender equality to explore the consequences of empowering women, positioning this empowerment as a vital element in improving urban management outcomes.
Methodology
This study is qualitative, applied in its objective, and exploratory in its methodological approach. The statistical population includes the legal boundaries of the Isfahan metropolis in the year 2024 (1403 Hijri-Shamsi). Data collection tools include interviews and questionnaires. A one-sample t-test was used for data analysis. The sample size for the questionnaire includes 400 employed women in governmental, semi-governmental, and private organizations, selected randomly. Additionally, the interview sample consists of 20 experts chosen through purposive sampling.
Result and discussion
‏The research findings indicate that out of 84 basic themes related to the consequences of women's empowerment in the Isfahan metropolis, only 20 are above the average level. The overall average score for these themes is 2.7922, which reflects an undesirable situation. Among the themes, only "eliminating discrimination" and "life and health" scored above average. The negative values of the t-statistics for most themes further emphasize the overall weak and unsatisfactory state of women's empowerment outcomes in this context.
Conclusion
 ‏The results suggest that the consequences of women's empowerment in the decision-making environment of the Isfahan metropolis are generally at a weak and undesirable level. The low average scores and negative t-statistic values underscore the need for a comprehensive policy review and the implementation of proactive strategies to enhance women's participation in urban governance. Strengthening women's roles in decision-making structures is essential for achieving more equitable, effective, and accountable urban management.

Abstract Abstract
This research examines the relationship between the spatial configuration of architecture and the socio-religious rituals of the Elamites at the Chogha Zanbil site. By studying historical and archaeological evidence, particularly the Chogha Zanbil ziggurat and its surrounding spaces, this study seeks to reveal how the beliefs and convictions of the Elamites influenced the design and construction of this vast religious complex. The main research questions include:
 1- What rituals did the Elamite people participate in upon entering the precinct of the Chogha Zanbil ziggurat?
2- What similarities and differences existed between the architectural spaces designed for the performance of religious rituals by courtiers and common people?
 3- How are the Elamites' beliefs about the afterlife reflected in the design of the tomb spaces at Chogha Zanbil, based on their architecture?
The research method is descriptive-analytical, and the data were collected through documentary-library studies and field studies of the remaining of the ziggurat. The findings of the research show that the spatial configuration of Chogha Zanbil, including the courtyards, gates, access routes, and temples, was directly related to the rituals and religious ceremonies of the Elamites. Furthermore, differences can be observed in the spaces allocated to courtiers and ordinary people, which indicates social and class distinctions in the performance of religious rituals. In addition, the architecture of the underground tombs of Chogha Zanbil depicts the Elamites' belief in life after death and the needs of the dead in the afterlife.
1. Introduction
The ancient site of Chogha Zanbil is a magnificent legacy of the Elamite civilization, built around 1250 BC by order of Untash-Gal, the Elamite king. This complex includes a ziggurat, temples, palaces, and underground tombs, all of which were designed and built with special care and elegance. The purpose of constructing this complex was to create a space for performing religious rituals and honoring the Elamite gods.
2. Background of the Research
Numerous studies have been conducted in the field of architecture and archeology of Chogha Zanbil, but fewer studies have examined the relationship between spatial configuration and religious rituals of the Elamites. In this research, an attempt has been made to achieve a better understanding of how the beliefs and convictions of the Elamites influenced the architecture of this complex by carefully examining the various spaces of Chogha Zanbil and analyzing texts and archaeological evidence.
3. Research Methodology
This research was conducted in a descriptive-analytical method. The required information was collected through library studies and field studies of the Chogha Zanbil site. In the library studies section, historical and archaeological sources related to the Elamite civilization and the Chogha Zanbil site were studied. In the field study section, the آثار remaining from the ziggurat, temples, palaces, and underground tombs were examined and analyzed.
4. Findings and Discussion
The research findings show that the spatial configuration of Chogha Zanbil, including the courtyards, gates, access routes, and temples, was directly related to the rituals and religious ceremonies of the Elamites. For example, the vast courtyards around the ziggurat were designed to hold processions and gatherings of pilgrims. The large and magnificent gates were a symbol of the power and greatness of the Elamite kingdom, as well as a way to enter the sacred space of the ziggurat.
The specific access routes guided the pilgrims towards the temples and special spaces.
Also, in the architecture of Chogha Zanbil, differences can be observed in the spaces allocated to the courtiers and ordinary people. For example, the royal gate and some special temples were probably intended for the use of courtiers and high-ranking officials, while ordinary people used other gates and more public spaces to perform religious rituals.
In addition, the architecture of the underground tombs of Chogha Zanbil depicts the Elamites' belief in life after death and the needs of the dead in the afterlife. The existence of water channels next to the tombs indicates the importance of water in the Elamites' beliefs, and probably for the purification of the dead or the performance of special ceremonies. Placing objects such as clay pots, water, and food in the tombs shows that the Elamites believed that the dead would need these items in the afterlife.
5. Conclusion
In general, the present research shows that the spatial configuration of the architecture of Chogha Zanbil was a reflection of the beliefs, convictions, and socio-religious rituals of the Elamites. The careful and intelligent design of this vast religious complex was such that it facilitated the performance of religious rituals and enhanced the spiritual experience of the pilgrims. Also, the differences in the spaces allocated to different strata of society indicate the existence of social and class distinctions in the performance of religious rituals in the Elamite civilization.

Abstract Introduction
Walking has emerged as a highly sustainable mode of transportation that plays a crucial role in enhancing urban livability and reducing environmental degradation. In an age where urban areas are grappling with severe issues such as noise and air pollution, walking offers an eco-friendly alternative to the reliance on private vehicles. This mode of transport not only contributes to environmental sustainability but also offers significant public health benefits. Numerous studies have indicated that walking serves as an effective means of alleviating stress, fostering mental well-being, and promoting physical fitness. It is not merely a physical activity; it is a holistic practice that fosters social connections and encourages community engagement, thereby enriching urban life.
The significance of walking extends beyond its environmental and health benefits. It is a multifaceted activity that encompasses various aspects of social interaction and individual well-being. Walking provides an opportunity for individuals to connect with their surroundings and with one another, creating a sense of community and belonging. The act itself can serve as a platform for socialization, where individuals engage in conversations, share experiences, and build relationships. Consequently, the design and accessibility of urban spaces play a pivotal role in facilitating or hindering walking behaviors among residents.
However, despite its many benefits, certain groups—particularly women—face unique challenges that can impede their walking experiences. Gender-based disparities in urban environments often lead to safety concerns, social restrictions, and infrastructural inadequacies that disproportionately affect women. Recognizing and addressing these barriers is essential for ensuring that all individuals, especially women, have equitable access to walking opportunities and can reap the associated health benefits. In this context, promoting inclusivity and equity in urban planning is vital for fostering environments that support the health and well-being of all community members
 
Methodology
To investigate the current state of research on women’s walking in urban environments, we conducted a comprehensive examination of scholarly articles published in the Scopus citation database between 2014 and 2024. The search utilized specific keywords, including “Walking,” “Walkability,” “Women,” and “Female,” to identify articles relevant to our focus on women’s walking patterns in urban settings. The emphasis on both social sciences and environmental sciences in our review allowed for a multifaceted understanding of the issues at play.
Initially, our search yielded a total of 4,153 articles. To refine this extensive dataset, we implemented a rigorous filtering process. We assessed the relevance of articles based on title and author name, and systematically eliminated those lacking English titles, abstracts, or keywords. Additionally, we excluded titles that were deemed irrelevant to our study focus. This meticulous approach resulted in a final selection of 130 articles, extracted from a diverse array of 76 sources, including academic journals and conference proceedings.
The articles selected for review were analyzed for various metrics, including publication age, citation frequency, and author collaboration rates. The average age of the articles was determined to be 5.4 years, indicating the recency of the research focus. The annual growth rate of published articles was calculated at 5.76%, with an average of 20.72 citations per article. Notably, 21 of the selected articles were authored by a single researcher, while the remaining articles exhibited an average collaboration rate of 3.32 authors, highlighting the collaborative nature of research in this field. The findings reveal a dynamic and growing body of literature focused on women’s walking in urban environments.
Results and Discussion
The analysis of the articles indicated a notable trend in the geographic distribution of the research. The majority of articles were published by authors based in the United States (107 articles), followed by significant contributions from Japan, England, and Australia (29 articles each), and Iran (24 articles). This distribution suggests a concentration of research activity in developed countries, where urban design and policy issues related to walking have garnered significant academic attention.
Among the selected articles, the most frequently published journals included the Journal of Transport and Health and the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. These journals are known for their focus on public health, urban planning, and environmental issues, making them appropriate venues for research on women’s walking behaviors.
In terms of thematic categorization, the studies were grouped into four distinct categories:

Environmental Factors: This category encompasses research examining how physical urban environments, including infrastructure, green spaces, and walkability features, influence women’s walking behaviors. Studies in this area often highlight the importance of well-designed sidewalks, safe crossings, and accessible public spaces.
Safety and Security: Research in this category focuses on how perceptions of safety and security impact women’s willingness to walk in urban areas. This includes examining factors such as crime rates, lighting, and the presence of other pedestrians, which can either encourage or discourage walking.
Sociocultural Factors: This group of studies investigates the sociocultural dynamics that shape women’s walking behaviors, including societal norms, cultural expectations, and gender roles. Understanding these factors is crucial for addressing the barriers women face in accessing walking opportunities.
Gender Comparisons: Some studies explore the differences in walking behaviors between women and men, providing insights into how gender influences walking patterns, motivations, and experiences in urban settings.

The review of the literature revealed that most research has been conducted in developed countries, with a conspicuous gap in studies focusing on developing nations. Given the unique cultural and social contexts of developing countries, there is a pressing need for research that examines the factors affecting women’s walking behaviors in these regions. Insights derived from such studies could inform policy and planning efforts that are more culturally sensitive and tailored to the specific needs of women in diverse urban contexts.
Furthermore, the predominance of cross-sectional studies in the existing literature suggests that longitudinal research is particularly important for understanding the long-term effects of walking on women’s health and the impact of urban design on pedestrianization. Longitudinal studies could provide valuable data on how changes in urban environments influence walking behaviors over time and the subsequent effects on health outcomes.
Another significant finding is the variability in research methodologies. While some studies have adopted qualitative approaches to explore women’s lived experiences, others have employed quantitative methods to analyze walking patterns and behaviors. A mixed-methods approach, integrating both qualitative and quantitative methodologies, could yield a more comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing women’s walking behaviors and experiences.
Conclusion
 ‏ The findings of this study not only identify current research trends and gaps in the literature on women’s walking in urban environments but also offer a foundation for developing integrated theoretical frameworks. This framework can inform policymaking aimed at creating urban spaces that cater to the unique needs of women. Addressing the barriers women encounter in accessing walking opportunities is essential for fostering environments that promote health, well-being, and social equity.
By enhancing the inclusivity of urban design and planning, policymakers can help create urban communities where all individuals can thrive. Such efforts can contribute to a more sustainable urban future, where walking is not only a viable mode of transportation but also a pathway to improved health outcomes, enhanced social connections, and greater community cohesion. Ultimately, the promotion of walking as a fundamental component of urban life is essential for building vibrant, resilient, and inclusive urban environments. Through targeted research and informed policy interventions, it is possible to realize the transformative potential of walking in urban areas, ensuring that all individuals, particularly women, can fully participate in and benefit from the rich tapestry of urban life.