Handicrafts as cultural creative clusters: a spatial-cultural planning approach for the regeneration of the urban historical fabrics
International Journal of Tourism Cities
ISSN: 2056-5607
Article publication date: 19 July 2024
Issue publication date: 29 November 2024
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the role of handicraft production units within creative cultural clusters (CCCs) and their impact on urban regeneration, particularly within the historical fabric of Isfahan. It aims to identify the key factors contributing to the development of CCCs and how these clusters, in turn, influence tourism development.
Design/methodology/approach
The research method of this study is based on a quantitative approach, using a researcher-devised questionnaire as the primary data collection instrument. The statistical population included 227 units of handicraft makers in the historical fabric of Isfahan. The data processing and analysis were performed using SPSS software.
Findings
Statistical analysis confirms the creative industries, spatial and socio-cultural indices significantly impact tourism, with means of 14.19, 19.07 and 15.11. Clustering, cultural resources and tourism are key to CCCs growth, while innovation and cultural identity have less effect. CCCs enhance Isfahan’s historical fabric, improving urban space attractiveness and fostering social ties. Handicraft clusters around Naqsh-e Jahan square notably influence the economy and cultural identity, with shop placement reflecting the city’s character.
Originality/value
The originality of this research lies in its analysis of how handicraft production within CCCs contributes to urban regeneration and tourism in Isfahan, with a novel focus on the socio-cultural and economic impacts of these clusters in a historical context.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
Declaration of competing interest: The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper.
Institutional review board statement: The study followed ethical guidelines for research involving human subjects. These guidelines included obtaining informed consent, ensuring confidentiality and privacy and protecting participants’ rights. This study was evaluated by Research Ethics Committees of Islamic Azad University- Najafaba Branch and approved with approval-ID [IR.IAU.NAJAFABAD.REC.1402.203].
Declaration of generative AI and AI-assisted technologies in the writing process: While preparing this work, the authors used word tune and Grammarly to improve the quality and efficiency of their writing. After using this tool, the authors reviewed and edited the content as needed and took full responsibility for the publication’s content.
Financial support: This research received no specific grant from funding agencies in the public, commercial or not-for-profit sectors.
Citation
Taheri, S., Khalilpour, F., Ashayeri, M. and Shabani, A. (2024), "Handicrafts as cultural creative clusters: a spatial-cultural planning approach for the regeneration of the urban historical fabrics", International Journal of Tourism Cities, Vol. 10 No. 4, pp. 1393-1413. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJTC-02-2024-0042
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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