Journal of Tourism and Development

Journal of Tourism and Development

The impact of indigenous Iranian music on the development of cultural tourism with a focus on spiritual health

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
1 PhD student in Tourism Management, Department of Tourism, Faculty of Tourism, University of Science and Culture, Tehran, Iran
2 Professor of Tourism Management, Department of Tourism, Faculty of Tourism, University of Science and Culture, Tehran, Iran
10.22034/jtd.2025.490024.2988
Abstract
The indigenous music of Iran holds rich cultural and historical significance, deeply rooted in the spirituality of the region. It is believed that its melodic and rhythmic elements have a profound impact on individuals' spiritual well-being, promoting tranquility, mindfulness, and inner peace. For this purpose, the present study aims to examine the impact of Iranian indigenous music on the development of cultural tourism and spiritual health. The research method is descriptive-survey and is applied in terms of purpose. By conducting documentary studies and interviews with academic experts and tourism industry specialists, 9 factors were identified. In this research, using the Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling technique and the Smart PLS3 software, the data were analyzed and the research model was designed. The research findings indicate that all direct relationships in the model, with the main variable (cultural tourism development and spiritual health), were significant and accepted in the hypothesis test. The highest path coefficients, in order, are related to indigenous music on spiritual health, the diversity of provincial and ethnic music, and participation in music festivals and events. Among the selected factors, indigenous music on spiritual health has the greatest importance for the development of cultural tourism. The results of this research can contribute to the promotion of cultural tourism development and spiritual health in Iran. By promoting local music events, supporting local artists, and creating appropriate infrastructure, the attractiveness of tourism will increase, and the experience of tourists will become richer, ultimately leading to the economic and cultural growth of the country
Keywords

 
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