Feasibility Study on Balancing Smart Urban Development and Cultural Heritage Preservation in the Historical City of Mehriz

Articles in Press

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Department of Urban Planning, Faculty of Art and Architecture, Yazd University, Yazd, Iran

2 Yazd University

3 Department of Urbanism, Yazd University

Abstract

In the context of rapidly accelerating technological transformations, small historical cities such as Mehriz face a dual challenge: on one hand, the need to utilize emerging technologies to improve citizens’ quality of life, and on the other hand, the necessity to preserve and strengthen the city’s historical and cultural identity. This study aims to identify and analyze the key drivers of smart urban development in Mehriz using the Structural Analysis Method (MICMAC) to examine the interrelationships among these drivers. After the initial identification of drivers through literature review and expert interviews, a cross-impact matrix was developed to determine the degree of influence and dependence of each factor. The results indicate that factors such as cultural tourism, smart infrastructure, and historical fabric preservation are among the most influential drivers affecting smart city development in Mehriz. Finally, a proposed framework is presented that emphasizes the use of context-based and sustainable technologies with an identity-oriented approach. This framework can serve as a model for other small historical cities in Iran.

Keywords

Main Subjects

Spatial Planning

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 21 June 2026

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History

  • Receive Date: 04 May 2025
  • Revise Date: 25 October 2025
  • Accept Date: 21 June 2026

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