Journal of Urban Studies on Space and Place

Abstract Introduction
Contemporary cities face escalating risks from natural hazards and human-induced threats owing to rapid population growth, infrastructural complexity, and spatial densification (Rezaie Narimisa et al., 2019). Enhancing urban resilience has therefore emerged as an urgent imperative. Within this context, passive defense—a non-confrontational strategy aimed at vulnerability reduction and improvement of absorption, response, and recovery capacities—offers a robust framework for threat mitigation at the neighborhood scale (Ghajari et al., 2018).
As the primary organizational units of urban fabric, neighborhoods constitute critical arenas for implementing passive defense measures. Public and strategic facilities located within them are frequently primary targets during crises; consequently, reducing neighborhood-level vulnerabilities substantially strengthens societal defensive capacity. Accordingly, this study examines neighborhood resilience in Qom City, Iran, through the lens of passive defense, addressing three principal research questions:
· How do neighborhood spatial indicators (green space provision, building density, and distance from strategic centers) exert direct and indirect influences on shelter design criteria and overall neighborhood resilience?
· Which shelter design criteria do experts regard as most critical to neighborhood resilience, and how are these criteria hierarchically ranked?
· How does the prioritization of shelter design criteria differ according to shelter function (public, hospital, command), and what are the implications for resilience planning?

Theoretical Framework
The neighborhood represents a multifaceted construct in urban studies, encompassing social, perceptual, physical, functional, and political dimensions. Internationally, neighborhoods are typically conceptualized as spatially bounded areas possessing distinct identity and providing daily services within convenient walking distance. In the Iranian context, official guidelines define neighborhoods as units containing 700–1,250 households accessible within a 4–5-minute pedestrian radius and anchored by mosques, schools, parks, and local commercial facilities.
Beyond demographic and service thresholds, collective identity, social interaction, spatial legibility, environmental quality, and physical continuity are pivotal to neighborhood cohesion. The neighborhood scale is particularly salient for passive defense and resilience planning, as it aligns with citizens’ lived experience and hosts essential infrastructure and population concentrations. Core passive defense principles—appropriate site selection, concealment and camouflage, emergency circulation networks, structural reinforcement, and multifunctional space design—are most effectively operationalized at this level. Moreover, neighborhood resilience extends beyond technical parameters to incorporate social capital, access to open space, environmental quality, and service coordination. Within this integrated perspective, shelter design emerges as a vital nexus of technical, spatial, and socio-functional considerations, yielding safe and adaptable refuges during crises.

Methodology
This applied investigation adopted a descriptive–analytical design. Data were collected through documentary review, field observation, expert questionnaires, and geospatial analysis. The study area comprised Qom City, with three representative neighborhoods (Pardisan, Emam, and Shahrak-e Qods) selected via cluster sampling. Expert judgment was elicited from 12 specialists in architecture and passive defense using structured questionnaires. Quantitative analysis and structural equation modeling were performed using SPSS 26 and AMOS 24 software.

Results and Discussion
Expert assessments, validated by the Friedman rank test, established structural resistance and emergency evacuation routes as the preeminent shelter design criteria (highest mean ranks). Spatial indicators significantly moderated these criteria: green space provision and greater distance from strategic centers correlated positively with structural resistance and accessibility, whereas elevated building density exhibited inverse relationships.
Criterion prioritization varied markedly by shelter typology. Emergency routes emerged as the dominant consideration for hospital shelters, reflecting the imperative of rapid patient evacuation and ambulance access. Conversely, concealment and camouflage assumed primary importance for command centers to minimize detection risk. Structural resistance and strategic location, however, retained universal salience across all functional categories.
Structural equation modeling confirmed that neighborhood resilience is shaped through both direct pathways (safety-oriented design criteria and favorable physical attributes) and indirect pathways mediated by design criteria. Hierarchical cluster analysis delineated three neighborhood typologies: (1) planned resilient neighborhoods exhibiting optimal spatial characteristics and high design compliance; (2) dense vulnerable neighborhoods constrained by excessive building density and limited open space; and (3) location-dependent neighborhoods whose resilience hinged predominantly on proximity to or distance from strategic assets. These typologies facilitate targeted, context-specific interventions.
The results affirm the necessity of a systemic approach that integrates shelter design standards with neighborhood physical planning, acknowledges functional differentiation, and leverages spatial analytics to strengthen urban resilience.

Conclusion
This investigation demonstrates that structural resistance and emergency evacuation routes constitute the cornerstone shelter design criteria for enhancing neighborhood resilience, followed by strategic location and concealment measures. Neighborhood spatial characteristics—green space provision, building density, and distance from strategic centers—exert significant direct and indirect effects on criterion fulfillment and resilience outcomes. Furthermore, functional specialization markedly influences criterion hierarchy, with hospital shelters prioritizing circulation efficiency and command facilities emphasizing concealment.
Ultimately, achieving robust urban resilience necessitates the systematic integration of shelter design with neighborhood-scale spatial planning, explicit consideration of shelter function, and adoption of differentiated, evidence-based strategies tailored to local physical and strategic conditions. Such an approach will facilitate the development of resilient, adaptive urban shelter networks capable of withstanding contemporary threats.

Abstract Introduction
In the contemporary era, marked by significant transformations in lifestyle, cultural diversity, and the growing complexities of urban spaces, the nature of individuals' engagement and interaction with religious environments has undergone noticeable changes. This evolution is particularly crucial when considering the ways in which a sense of spirituality is cultivated or enhanced within religious spaces, specifically among women and men. Empirical findings alongside various research studies indicate that individuals’ spiritual connection to mosques can be influenced by an array of factors. These factors encompass physical characteristics, such as the architectural design of the dome or mihrab, the strategic use of lighting, and sensory attributes, including scents, sounds, color schemes, and the materials used in the mosque's construction. Furthermore, socio-cultural dimensions play a significant role, involving community engagement, intergenerational connections, and the facilitation of human interactions within the mosque environment. While numerous studies have explored the role of mosques in fostering social and spiritual interactions, there remains a notable gap in comprehensive research addressing these three dimensions (physical, sensory, and cultural) through the lens of gender differences. This raises an essential question: Which architectural elements and features exert the most profound influence on individuals' spiritual experiences in mosques? Additionally, does the extent of this influence vary significantly between women and men, or are these impacts distributed equally across genders?
Theoretical framework
The differences in environmental perception between women and men are significant and encompass various dimensions influenced by factors such as socialization, cognitive processing, and ideological frameworks. Numerous studies have highlighted that women generally exhibit stronger attitudes and behaviors concerning environmental protection and awareness compared to men. Women tend to demonstrate a heightened sensitivity toward their surroundings, often focusing intensely on the finer details of their immediate environment. This inclination makes them more likely to carefully evaluate specific aspects of a space, whereas men are generally observed to approach spatial interpretation with a broader and more comprehensive perspective. These notable distinctions in how individuals perceive their environment underline the importance of incorporating such considerations into architectural design practices. By doing so, designers can effectively engage the senses and attention of all users. Furthermore, women and men hold varied perceptions of the quality of interior environments, which further emphasizes the necessity of adaptable and inclusive spatial designs tailored to meet diverse needs.
Methodology
The research methodology was conducted in two phases: an initial descriptive-analytical approach, followed by a survey-based method. A structured questionnaire was employed to gather data, comprising 31 indicators related to physical, sensory, and socio-cultural components in mosque architecture. Each indicator was assessed using a nine-point Likert scale ranging from "strongly disagree" to "strongly agree." The questionnaire’s content validity was confirmed prior to implementation by five specialists in architecture with expertise in environmental psychology. Its reliability was also verified by calculating the Cronbach’s alpha coefficient. The study population consisted of worshippers and individuals participating in cultural activities at mosques in Yasuj city. The final sample size included 282 respondents, evenly distributed between genders, with 141 men and 141 women. Participants' ages ranged from 21 to 71 years, with the highest frequency observed in the 43–59 age group. Sampling was carried out using a purposeful and convenience-based method to ensure representation across various gender and age demographics among mosque users. Data analysis was performed using SPSS software. The questionnaire’s reliability was evaluated again using the Cronbach’s alpha coefficient, while its validity was established through content review by experts. To identify the factor structure of the questionnaire, exploratory factor analysis with the Varimax rotation method was applied. Additionally, an independent t-test was conducted to examine significant differences between gender groups regarding the influence levels of the indicators. Furthermore, a one-sample t-test was utilized to assess the significance of indicator means against hypothetical values. Statistical descriptions including mean values, standard deviation, and frequency percentages were presented during the analysis process.
Result and discussion
The present study aimed to explore mental and psychological differences between women and men in the process of fostering and enhancing spiritual feelings within mosque architecture, yielding noteworthy findings. The results indicate that sensory components have the most significant impact on individuals' spiritual experiences. This influence is particularly pronounced among women, who exhibit greater sensitivity to these factors. Elements such as natural light, appealing acoustics, pleasant fragrances, and soothing colors play a crucial role in creating a spiritually uplifting environment for women. These characteristics align with women's heightened sensitivity to environmental details and sensory stimuli, ultimately fostering a sense of belonging, psychological tranquility, and spiritual upliftment. Conversely, men tend to be more influenced by structural and architectural elements. Features such as grand domes, tall minarets, intricately designed mihrabs, and the effective utilization of human-scale proportions in spatial design are among the aspects that capture men's attention. These architectural elements, emphasizing divine order and unity, effectively contribute to enhancing men's focus and spiritual experience.
Conclusion
The thoughtful design of mosques can deeply enrich the spiritual experience of worshippers, especially when practical recommendations are applied. Sensory elements play a crucial role, with features like natural lighting, calming acoustics, harmonious color schemes, and soothing fragrances such as incense and rosewater enhancing the atmosphere. Attention to traditional architectural details, like domes, mihrabs, and human-scaled minarets, combined with designs that promote unity and focus, further elevates the space. Equally important are cultural and social considerations. Spaces dedicated to dialogue, religious education, and community activities foster a sense of belonging and collective spirituality. For women, creating private and serene areas ensures a more focused and tranquil worship experience. Balancing sensory, architectural, and social dimensions in mosque design creates an environment that meets the diverse needs of all attendees. Such holistic approaches provide a deeply immersive and sustainable spiritual experience for everyone.

Abstract Introduction
The contextual basis of this research is the conceptual gap within architectural and urban planning studies regarding the understanding of the reciprocal relationships among key components of the collective mindset in place. In the contemporary fast-paced world, the formation of this mindset, which directly impacts place memorability and place attachment, has become a primary concern. The present problem arises from the frequent neglect of a coherent theoretical framework capable of comprehensively explaining the dynamics among these three key constructs. This mindset is not merely a product of physical interactions but rather a complex outcome of social, historical, and psychological processes. The research problem focuses on this deficit in understanding these interrelations, as well as the urgent need to deeply investigate the socio-cultural impacts of places on these constructs, particularly in societies like Iran, which, despite a rich history, face rapid identity transformations. Accordingly, the primary objective of this research is to elucidate the interactive mechanisms between memorability and place attachment and to analyze the mediating role of the collective mindset in this relationship. More precisely, the goal is to analyze and explain the mental models of theorists concerning this tripartite interaction, thereby identifying factors that contribute to enhancing these connections and exploring their impact on social and cultural identity.
The rationale for this research is rooted in addressing existing theoretical weaknesses and the progressive decline in the quality of spatial experience within human settlements. In both theoretical and practical realms of architecture, we often encounter a disjuncture or a reductionist view of these concepts; contemporary urban environments are designed as alienating spaces, lacking the power to generate deep memories or attachment. This not only leads to the weakening of the sense of belonging and reduced social participation but can also result in the erosion of cultural and collective identity. Therefore, this research theoretically aids in bridging the existing conceptual gap and, on a practical level, presents more applied solutions for designers and policymakers to create spaces that reinforce human bonds and collective identity. This is particularly crucial in the revitalization of historic fabrics and the design of vibrant public spaces, potentially assisting in the recovery of indigenous place values.

Methodology
To achieve objectives, a mixed-methods (qualitative-quantitative) research design centered on Q-methodology was employed. Q-methodology is a potent tool for the systematic study of subjectivity and the exploration of perceptual structures regarding complex concepts like place experience. In a unique approach, instead of using human participants, the study utilized the works and perspectives of prominent theorists—such as Kevin Lynch, Christian Norberg-Schulz, Edward Relph, Yi-Fu Tuan, Maurice Halbwachs, Pierre Nora, Jane Jacobs, Altman & Low, Scannell & Gifford, and Dolores Hayden—as representatives of the theoretical population (P-set). This approach facilitated a structured analysis of the existing theoretical discourse. The selection of these theorists was based on theoretical purposive sampling to ensure coverage of a diverse spectrum of viewpoints across architecture, urban planning, environmental psychology, and urban sociology.
The research process was executed in several distinct stages. In the first step, identifying the concourse (discourse domain) was conducted through a preliminary literature review and documentary analysis to precisely define the thematic territory and the theoretical population. The second stage was the P-set selection, where purposive sampling of theorists based on specific criteria was performed, and the final list was compiled. The third step, research design, involved revising and refining the research questions and objectives to achieve the final research framework. In the fourth stage, context identification was undertaken through a deeper analysis of the selected works to ensure the coverage and diversity of perspectives. The fifth step, library sampling (concourse extraction), utilized indexing (Fiche-bardari) and qualitative content analysis to extract an initial set of potential Q-statements. The sixth stage, serving as an alternative to pre-interviews, involved a critical re-reading of theoretical texts to extract preliminary statements. In the seventh step, data familiarization was achieved through repeated, in-depth study of the texts and initial coding to reach theoretical saturation regarding the spectrum of viewpoints. The eighth stage was the Q-set development; here, through content analysis and statement refinement, the final set comprising 75 statements (deemed sufficient for theoretical saturation) was compiled.

Discussion and Result
The results from the factor analysis led to the identification of three distinct mental models. Statistical analysis of the data (KMO value = 0.748 and Bartlett's Test significance, p < .001) confirmed the suitability of the data for factor analysis. Based on the Total Variance Explained table and the Scree Plot, two principal factors with Initial Eigenvalues greater than 1 were identified (Factor 1 = 3.949 and Factor 2 = 2.079), which collectively explained 75.350% of the total variance before rotation and 65.607% after rotation. Factor 1 was named "Lived-Experience and Affective Bond with Place"; this factor showed the highest factor loadings for the concepts of "Phenomenology of Place" (P3) with a loading of 0.886 and "Place Identity" (P4) with a loading of 0.782. This pattern emphasizes the importance of the internal, sensory, psychological, and affective dimensions of the human-place relationship and the formation of attachment as an existential and identity-based bond. Factor 2 was named "Collective Memory and Image of the Place." This factor exhibited very high factor loadings for the concepts of "Collective Memory" (P1) with a loading of 0.959, "Places of Memory" (P5) with a loading of 0.963, and "Image of the City" (P2) with a loading of 0.924. This mental model clearly focuses on the collective, symbolic, and visual dimensions of place, indicating that a place's capacity for representing collective memory (aligning with Halbwachs and Nora) and its physical legibility (aligning with Lynch) are foundational to forming a shared perception. In addition to these two principal factors, two auxiliary factors were also extracted: "Reconstruction of Memory and Return to Place Experience" (primarily defined by the "Power of Place" (P7) concept with a loading of 0.973, emphasizing the role of conflict and inequality in memory representation) and "Environmental Holism" (defined by "Integrated Models" (P8) with a loading of 0.898, stressing the need for interdisciplinary and technological approaches).

Abstract Introduction
The transformation of urban environments in contemporary cities has increasingly distanced spatial structures from their cultural roots, generating identity crises and visual homogenization across diverse contexts. In response, the discourse on urban landscape has shifted toward cultural and identity-oriented paradigms that regard landscape not merely as a physical composition but as a medium of social meaning and collective memory. Within this framework, local identity emerges as a decisive factor shaping the perceptual and aesthetic qualities of urban space, ensuring cultural continuity and social cohesion. This study investigates the role of local identity in forming the urban landscape patterns of Urmia—a culturally diverse city in northwestern Iran—and develops a policy framework aimed at enhancing landscape quality through the integration of indigenous cultural values. The research addresses a significant theoretical and practical gap in Iranian urban studies, where the relationship between cultural identity and landscape morphology remains underexplored, and planning policies often neglect the symbolic and social dimensions of place.

Methodology
The study adopts a mixed-method approach combining causal–comparative and survey techniques. Quantitative data were collected from 384 Urmia residents, selected via Cochran’s formula and stratified random sampling to represent all five municipal zones. A structured Likert-scale questionnaire measured eight cultural dimensions—historical, literary–artistic, economic, political–diplomatic, ecological, religious, ethnic–local, and ethical–perfection—and their correlations with urban landscape indices such as visual quality, diversity of spatial forms, and perceptual coherence. Data were validated for reliability using composite reliability, Cronbach’s alpha, and average variance extracted (AVE), and were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and multiple regression models. Complementary expert analysis was conducted to derive strategic policy orientations, integrating empirical findings into a comprehensive policy framework for identity-oriented landscape governance.
Discussion and Result
Findings reveal that all cultural dimensions contribute to the formation of Urmia’s urban landscape with varying magnitudes and mechanisms of influence. Among them, the “culture of perfection”—a composite construct reflecting ethical, spiritual, and humanistic values—exerted the strongest impact (β = 0.796, p < 0.001), indicating that moral and value-driven cohesion serves as a critical foundation for aesthetic harmony and collective belonging. The “economic culture” (β = 0.691) and “historical culture” (β = 0.689) followed in significance, emphasizing the dual role of functional vitality and heritage continuity in maintaining urban identity. The “literary–artistic culture” demonstrated a considerable correlation (β = 0.574), reinforcing the idea that aesthetic symbolism and local art practices enrich urban readability and sensory engagement. Likewise, the “ethnic–local culture” (β = 0.575) enhanced spatial diversity and social inclusiveness, particularly in districts characterized by strong multiethnic interaction. In contrast, “religious” and “technological–organizational” cultures showed limited effects, suggesting that modern urban governance in Iran has increasingly detached spiritual and managerial domains from the experiential and symbolic layers of space.
The analytical synthesis underscores a multidirectional and reciprocal relationship between culture and landscape: while cultural values inform the configuration and perception of urban form, the spatial structure simultaneously reinforces or transforms collective cultural expression. This interdependence positions the urban landscape of Urmia as both a mirror and a mediator of local identity. The dominance of ethical and perfection-oriented values signifies the persistence of human-centered worldviews in Iranian cultural consciousness, where spatial meaning extends beyond visual form toward moral and social order. The interaction between economic and historical cultures further reveals that sustainability of the landscape depends not only on preserving material heritage but also on embedding economic vitality within culturally resonant urban fabrics. Moreover, the influence of artistic and ethnic dimensions highlights the importance of participatory cultural production in creating legible, inclusive, and emotionally engaging urban environments.
Building on these insights, the study formulates five strategic policy axes for identity-oriented landscape governance: (1) **Historical dimension** – revitalizing historic cores and incorporating local narratives in urban design to reinforce collective memory; (2) **Artistic dimension** – integrating vernacular arts and crafts into urban façades, furniture, and public spaces to enhance aesthetic coherence; (3) **Economic dimension** – linking creative economies and cultural tourism with sustainable urban development to generate place-based value; (4) **Ethnic–local dimension** – reflecting cultural diversity through inclusive design processes and supporting community-led cultural initiatives; and (5) **Ethical–perfection dimension** – institutionalizing moral and cultural values in planning through cultural charters, training programs, and performance assessment tools. Together, these strategies propose a transition from a “landscape of power,” dominated by top-down aesthetic regulations, toward a “landscape of culture,” shaped by shared meaning and civic participation.
The results have broader theoretical and practical implications. Theoretically, they contribute to the emerging body of knowledge linking local identity with urban landscape quality, demonstrating that cultural variables can be empirically measured and integrated into planning frameworks. The findings confirm that landscape quality is not a static visual property but a dynamic synthesis of cultural narratives, collective values, and spatial experience. Practically, the research offers a policy model adaptable to other culturally diverse Iranian cities, providing a pathway for embedding identity-oriented approaches in urban design, regeneration, and heritage management. By aligning urban policy with cultural continuity, cities can foster resilience, belonging, and aesthetic integrity in the face of modernization pressures. The Urmia case illustrates that sustainable urban landscapes emerge when cultural memory, creative expression, and moral values are intertwined within spatial planning, ensuring that the city’s evolution remains rooted in its local identity rather than abstract global templates
Conclusion
Overall, this study demonstrates that the revitalization of urban identity in Iranian cities requires a paradigm shift—from material reconstruction to cultural regeneration—wherein urban landscapes are re-envisioned as living narratives of place. Integrating indigenous cultural dimensions into planning and governance can thus transform landscapes from passive physical environments into active cultural systems that sustain meaning, continuity, and community well-being.

Abstract Introduction
Physical inactivity is a pressing global health concern, exacerbated in modern urban environments by sedentary lifestyles. In Iran, it is a major risk factor for prevalent non-communicable diseases like heart disease and diabetes. Concurrently, rapid urbanization and growing dependence on private vehicles have worsened environmental issues and diminished active transportation. Public transit systems, notably metros, offer a sustainable alternative that can alleviate congestion, improve air quality, and inherently promote physical activity by requiring walking for access and egress. Despite these potential benefits, the integration of health impact assessments into transport planning is often overlooked. This study addresses this gap by conducting a health economic evaluation of the Dowlat Abad Metro Station in Tehran, inaugurated in 2019. The primary aim is to quantify the health benefits, specifically in terms of prevented premature deaths and associated economic savings, arising from the increased physical activity facilitated by the station.

Theoretical Framework
This research is grounded in the methodology of Health Impact Assessment (HIA) and utilizes the World Health Organization's Health Economic Assessment Tool (HEAT) for walking and cycling (Kahlmeier et al., 2023). The theoretical basis is supported by robust epidemiological evidence establishing a continuous, dose-response relationship between physical activity and health; higher activity levels correlate with a reduced risk of all-cause mortality and diseases such as cardiovascular conditions. The study draws on international literature confirming that proximity to public transport, especially rail-based metros, is inversely associated with obesity rates, primarily due to the integration of walking into daily commutes. For economic valuation, the HEAT framework primarily employs the Value of a Statistical Life (VSL) approach, which estimates the societal economic value placed on reducing the risk of premature death.
Methodology
The study applied the WHO's HEAT methodology within the context of Tehran. The standard HIA process—comprising screening, scoping, appraisal, and reporting—was followed. Data were collected via a survey of 213 users of the Dowlat Abad Metro Station to capture travel patterns, including walking times to/from the station, trip frequency, and socio-demographic data. The core analysis calculated avoided premature deaths attributable to the metro-induced physical activity. Key parameters included:
1- Physical Activity Volume: Based on average walking times of 11-15 minutes (access) and 5-10 minutes (egress), converted into Metabolic Equivalent of Task (MET) expenditure;
2- Relative Risk (RR): A value of 0.81 for 660 MET-minutes/week was used to link activity to mortality risk reduction;
3- Population Attributable Fraction (PAF): Calculated as PAF = (RR-1)/RR to determine the fraction of preventable deaths;
4- Avoided Mortality (E): Estimated using E = PAF × B × P, where B is Tehran's baseline mortality rate and P is the exposed population;
5- Economic Valuation: Benefits were monetized using both the official Iranian "Diyah" (blood money) and Iran-specific VSL estimates.
Discussion and result
Survey findings indicated the station is mainly used by a young, educated population for work and study, with most users walking to and from it. The health appraisal revealed significant outcomes: the station's use prevents an estimated 68 premature deaths annually, equating to 1,020.6 Years of Life Lost (YLL) prevented (range: 719.4–1,321.8 YLL). Economically, using the "Diyah" value (1.2 billion tomans per life) yielded annual savings of 1,632,960 million tomans. A more precise analysis using Iran-specific VSL data estimated savings of 452 billion tomans per year. These results align with global studies using HEAT, affirming that the health gains from active travel outweigh risks like air pollution. They underscore that metro investments are not merely transport solutions but also crucial public health interventions. The discussion notes that the metro's impact is mediated by local factors, such as the quality of the pedestrian environment around stations. While the metro expands "activity spaces," maximizing its health potential requires supportive urban design, including safe pathways for the "last mile" of the journey.
Conclusion
This study demonstrates that the Dowlat Abad Metro Station has yielded substantial health and economic benefits for Tehran by promoting physical activity. The prevention of dozens of premature deaths and the generation of significant financial savings highlight the important co-benefits of investing in sustainable public transport infrastructure. The research underscores the necessity of integrating health considerations into urban and transport policy from the outset, advocating for a move beyond sectoral silos. It concludes that while metro development is a necessary step for improving population health, it is not sufficient on its own. To fully realize its potential, it must be coupled with complementary measures such as creating safe pedestrian and cycling infrastructure and promoting mixed land use. Future research should conduct prospective HIAs before project implementation and utilize longitudinal designs and localized data to enhance the accuracy of impact assessments.

Abstract The complex developments of cities and the necessity of evidence-based decision-making have highlighted the role of urban observatories as one of the key tools of urban governance. Despite the conceptual and technical development of urban observatories in Iran, the weakness in formal institutional structures and the lack of coherent organizational, legal, and executive frameworks have challenged the efficiency and sustainability of these institutions. The present study aims to develop a formal institutional model supporting the urban observatory of municipalities, focusing on the municipality of Yazd. This study is applied-developmental in terms of purpose and mixed (qualitative-quantitative) in terms of methodology. In this article, stakeholder analysis methods have been carried out using power-benefit matrix analysis, descriptive statistics analysis, and nonparametric Friedman mean and Spearman correlation tests in the SPSS software environment. The results of the analyses show that the urban observatory can be implemented in the Yazd city municipality, and the most important findings from the analyses show that the development of an institutional model supporting the urban observatory consists of evaluation and reporting measures, sustainability and institutionalization, monitoring and supervision, data collection and management, security, rule of law, design and formulation, implementation and implementation of the program and stakeholders. The success and sustainability of the urban observatory requires formal institutional support, a transparent governance structure, an integrated data system, legal and security requirements, active participation of stakeholders, and continuous organizational learning. The proposed model can be used as an operational framework to promote data-based decision-making, transparency, accountability, and improvement of urban management in municipalities.