Introduction: This study aims to explain the relationship between tourism development and the enhancement of place attachment within the historical fabric of Sirjan. Given the crucial role of tourism in revitalizing historical and cultural spaces, examining its impact on the sense of belonging among residents and local business owners holds particular significance. The research seeks to scientifically and empirically analyze how tourism development influences social and cultural sustainability in Sirjan’s historic district.Data and Method: The research employed path analysis and structural equation modeling (SEM), using SPSS and AMOS software for data analysis. The statistical population consisted of two main groups: (1) residents and business owners in Saran's historical area, and (2) academic and professional experts in tourism and cultural heritage. Data were collected through a 48-item questionnaire designed to measure various dimensions of tourism development and place attachment.
Results: The results indicate that tourism development has a significant and positive impact on strengthening place attachment in Sirjan’s historical fabric. A statistically significant relationship was observed between different dimensions of place attachment (such as emotional bonding, place identity, and functional dependence) and tourism development indicators. Furthermore, active participation of the local community was identified as a key factor influencing the process of tourism development. Finally, the structural relationships among the study variables were represented in a comprehensive structural model.