Urban Design and Walkability: Lessons Learnt from Iranian Traditional Cities

Physical activity is connected to public health in many ways, and walking its most popular form. Modern planning models have been applied cities manage rapid urban expansions. However, this practice has led low level of walkability strong car-dependency today’s cities. Hence, study aims provide a review the promising design parameters affecting walkability, using Frank Lawrence’s theory “Objectively Measured Urban Form” (density, connectivity accessibility, mixed-use development) as basis discussion. The second part paper takes case approach, through discussing main elements traditional Iranian (mosques, bazaars, residential quarters, alleyways) analyses their impacts on promoting walkability. This concludes that incorporating inherent values will complement modern practices.