World Heritage Research: Browse Publications: Page 107

Unsacred Monarchy: The Kings of Castile in the Late Middle Ages

Burgos Cathedral — 2024 — WHEDF6D9E948E

A significant ritual innovation emerged during the coronation of Alfonso XI (1312–50), King of Castile, León, and other territories, in 1332. Unlike traditional anointing ceremonies, Alfonso was knighted by a mechanical arm of St. James' statue in Santiago de Compostela's cathedral before returning to Burgos for the royal unction. This deviation from sacred norms—combining pilgrimage symbolism with secular monarchy—challenges conventional narratives about late medieval kingship and religious authority. The study reconstructs this event through historical documentation, highlighting how Alfonso XI strategically integrated chivalric and religious elements to legitimize his rule, thereby reshaping the ceremonial landscape of Castile's monarchy.

Unsettled Heritage: Living next to Poland's Material Jewish Traces after the Holocaust by Yechiel Weizman (review)

Historic Centre of Kraków — 2024 — WHE6A185FA820

Yechiel Weizman's Unsettled Heritage reveals that the near-total disappearance of Poland's Jewish material heritage after the Holocaust was not a passive process but an active, institutionalized effort involving discursive, legal, and symbolic work. Through extensive archival research and ethnographic fieldwork in small towns—rather than major cities like Kraków or Warsaw—Weizman demonstrates how language (e.g., labeling sites as 'abandoned' or 'former') and legal frameworks facilitated the erasure of Jewish memory. He uncovers how antisemitic tropes about sanitation and neglect were weaponized to justify the repurposing or destruction of Jewish sites, while local knowledge gaps expose a 'nonmemory' where traces persist subconsciously. The study challenges narratives of Jewish absence in Poland, showing that forgetting was a deliberate, multi-layered process.

Untangling the chronological complexities of the Andean Central Coast Formative Period: A Bayesian reassessment

Chavin (Archaeological Site) — 2024 — WHE28EC16608A

A Bayesian reassessment of radiocarbon dates from 13 Formative sites on Peru's Central Coast and Chavín de Huántar reveals that the U-shaped temple tradition peaked between 1500–1000 cal BC, overlapping with Chavín's rise (1100–550 cal BC). This challenges assumptions about uniform ceramic spread, showing instead a discontinuous pattern. The study also identifies coeval aceramic Formative sites (El Paraíso, Buena Vista) alongside Late Archaic ones (Ancón, La Florida), suggesting complex cultural transitions. By integrating 249 dates via OxCal, researchers mapped architectural and ceramic trajectories, providing a refined timeline for Andean Formative period dynamics.

Unveiling Agricultural Heritage: Mapping Historical Features in Farming Landscapes

Aranjuez Cultural Landscape — 2024 — WHE4469B64C8A

Agricultural heritage, though often overshadowed by more prominent landscapes, holds significant cultural and environmental value. This study introduces a novel methodology to assess the historical depth of agricultural features—such as roads, livestock routes, plots, buildings, and land use—in non-outstanding farming areas using historical cartography. The approach aims to recognize and preserve traditional techniques and processes that sustain cultural landscapes and gastronomic identities, even in regions lacking exceptional heritage status. Applied to Spain’s floodplains and irrigation areas near Aranjuez (Community of Madrid), the method demonstrates potential for integrating agricultural heritage into spatial decision-making, ensuring its long-term conservation.

Unveiling the First Neobatrachian (Anura) Discovered in the paleokarst system of Bolt’s Farm (Plio-Pleistocene; Cradle of Humankind), South Africa

Fossil Hominid Sites of South Africa — 2024 — WHE54E20B15B7

Researchers have uncovered the first fossilized remains of a neobatrachian frog (Anura) from the Plio-Pleistocene paleokarst system at Bolt’s Farm, part of South Africa’s Cradle of Humankind. This discovery, described through CT-scanning analysis, reveals an articulated specimen with clear osteological similarities to the Pyxicephalidae family, suggesting it belonged to this large African group. The frog's preserved position mirrors that of living pyxicephalids during dormancy, implying it died in a dry season, reinforcing paleoenvironmental reconstructions of seasonal savannah conditions. This finding extends South Africa’s anuran fossil record beyond the southern Pliocene sites and provides new insights into the region’s ecological history.

Updating Chimpanzee Nesting Data at Mount Assirik (Niokolo Koba National Park, Senegal): Implications for Conservation

Niokolo-Koba National Park — 2024 — WHEDE3C32607E

Chimpanzees in Niokolo-Koba National Park (NKNP), Senegal, prefer nesting in closed-canopy habitats like gallery forests and exhibit a distinct nesting behavior compared to populations cohabiting with large carnivores. A recent study recorded 626 chimpanzee nests at Mount Assirik, revealing an average nest height of 8.07 ± 0.36 meters, significantly lower than previously documented in other regions. The research also identified that chimpanzees selectively choose tree species for nesting, with 12 out of 37 species being the most frequently used. Additionally, the study found that nest decay rates averaged 68.8 ± 5.8 days, providing new insights into chimpanzee nesting behavior in NKNP. These findings update decades-old data and offer critical information for the conservation management of this northernmost West African chimpanzee population.

Urban Development, Heritage Preservation, and Stakeholder Dynamics in the M’Zab Valley: A Strategic Analysis Using the MACTOR Tool

M'Zab Valley — 2024 — WHEB81D8ACF17

A strategic analysis of the UNESCO World Heritage site M'Zab Valley, Algeria, reveals significant governance challenges that hinder effective heritage preservation amid urban development pressures. The study identifies a prioritization gap where institutional stakeholders favor urban expansion over cultural conservation, exacerbated by poor coordination and weak legal frameworks. Using a mixed-methods approach—including documentary analysis, stakeholder interviews, and the MACTOR tool—the research demonstrates that underdeveloped co-governance mechanisms and limited technical capacity further complicate sustainable heritage management. Key recommendations focus on integrating diverse stakeholders, strengthening sectoral policy alignment, fostering participatory decision-making, and upgrading legal and technical instruments to address contemporary sustainability challenges. These insights offer a global model for balancing development and preservation in culturally significant urban contexts.

Urgent Prioritization of Conservation Sites for the Jagüilla (Tayassu pecari) in the Honduran Moskitia Region

Río Plátano Biosphere Reserve — 2024 — WHE9EFF67A45D

A critical analysis identifies four key conservation sites for the endangered jagüilla (Tayassu pecari) in Honduras, prioritizing areas with recent sightings to mitigate population decline. The study, using camera trap data from 2016–2022, confirms jagüilla presence in Sierra de Agalta National Park, the Río Plátano Biosphere Reserve (core and cultural zones), and the Warunta Mountains, where groups of up to 100 individuals were documented. Notably, this marks the first recorded jagüilla activity in Sierra de Agalta since 1994, highlighting its potential as a conservation target. Threats from hunting and deforestation in protected areas are emphasized, underscoring the urgency for participatory monitoring and habitat protection to safeguard this vulnerable species.

Use of Forest Resources and the Organization of Forestry in Northern Ural Mountains in the Second Half of the 19th and Early 20th Centuries

Virgin Komi Forests — 2024 — WHEC6075CEFA5

Historical archival documents reveal that the Northern Ural Mountains, now part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site 'Virgin Forests of the Komi,' experienced selective logging and forest resource use from the late 19th to early 20th centuries. Despite plans for large-scale logging in the Pechora River basin by a Swedish company, operations were hindered by logistical challenges. Forest governance evolved through administrative divisions, with timber primarily used for local boat-building and fuel for salt production on the Kama River. Annual logging volumes remained modest, with selective harvesting focusing on specific landscape units rather than clear-cutting. The study underscores the importance of integrating historical land-use records into ecological research to understand past impacts on these intact forests.

Use of otolith microchemical and morphological analyses for stock discrimination of Sarpa salpa on two Tunisian islands, Djerba and Kerkennah

Djerba: Testimony to a settlement pattern in an island territory — 2024 — WHE304E989E64

A groundbreaking study reveals that otolith morphological and microchemical analyses can effectively distinguish between Sarpa salpa fish stocks on the Tunisian islands of Djerba and Kerkennah, marking a significant advancement in fish stock discrimination methods. The research also highlights notable differences between male and female stocks within each population, along with high fluctuating asymmetry in both populations. This dual-method approach, combining traditional morphological analysis with innovative microchemical techniques, demonstrates their complementary power in assessing fish stock dynamics, offering valuable insights for fisheries management and conservation efforts.

User experience analysis in virtual museums

Castle of the Teutonic Order in Malbork — 2024 — WHE695EED0BF1

Virtual museum user experience analysis reveals that the Museum of Auschwitz-Birkenau outperforms Malbork Castle Museum in usability metrics, despite similar eye-tracking engagement. The study employed a multi-method approach—Nielsen heuristics for expert interface evaluation, Gazepoint GP3 HD eye tracking to measure visual attention, and System Usability Scale surveys combined with self-reported feedback from 16 participants. While both museums demonstrated comparable user focus during tasks, the Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum achieved higher usability scores, suggesting design elements that enhance navigation and interaction. This research underscores the importance of intuitive interfaces in virtual heritage experiences, offering insights for improving digital preservation platforms like Malbork Castle's.

User Experience Analysis of Zhangjiajie Wulingyuan Tourism Brand Based on Emotional Design Theory

Wulingyuan Scenic and Historic Interest Area — 2024 — WHE802B156272

A study reveals that while Zhangjiajie Wulingyuan's natural landscapes are highly appealing, its tourism brand faces challenges in functional design and internationalization. Using Norman’s emotional design theory, researchers analyzed visitor experiences across sensory, functional, and cultural-emotional dimensions, identifying gaps in digital services and interactive elements. The research, combining literature reviews, case studies, and KJ method analysis, suggests that enhancing service design—particularly through digital integration and localized offerings—could significantly boost the site's brand competitiveness. These findings offer a framework for optimizing other UNESCO World Heritage Sites' visitor experiences.

Using a Space Syntax Approach to Enhance Pedestrians’ Accessibility and Safety in the Historic City of George Town, Penang

Melaka and George Town, Historic Cities of the Straits of Malacca — 2024 — WHECADC01AE70

A space syntax analysis of George Town, Penangreveals critical structural inefficiencies in its pedestrian network, including poor connectivity, suboptimal integration, and safety hazards such as limited zebra crossings. The study identifies concentrated pedestrian flows along two-way roads and inadequate access to key attractions, exacerbated by the unique 'five-foot way' shophouse design adapted to Malaysia's climate. Using space syntax indicators like intelligibility and choice, researchers propose targeted interventions, including strategic infrastructure upgrades and zebra-crossing installations, to enhance accessibility and safety in this historic urban landscape. This approach offers a novel method for optimizing pedestrian environments in Southeast Asian heritage cities.

Using citizen science image analysis to measure seabird phenology

Sceilg Mhichíl — 2024 — WHEF0D1A9C566

Black-legged Kittiwake (Rissa tridactyla) breeding timing shifts with latitude, arriving and departing 2.6 and 1.2 days later per degree northward, respectively. This pattern aligns with ecological expectations but was revealed through a novel citizen science approach using time-lapse camera data from 11 North Atlantic colonies over nine years (2014–2023). Over 35,000 volunteers tagged seabirds in >200,000 images, with most contributing briefly but collectively enabling large-scale analysis. A standardized method validated citizen science annotations against expert review, demonstrating reliability for long-term monitoring. Notably, Kittiwakes wintered at Skellig Michael (Ireland), unlike nearby Skomer Island, suggesting site-specific behavioral differences. This cost-effective, scalable framework leverages public engagement to track phenological changes in response to environmental shifts, offering a model for global seabird conservation efforts.

Using Deep Learning Approaches to Quantify Landscape Preference of the Chinese Grand Canal: An Empirical Case Study of the Yangzhou Ancient Canal

The Grand Canal — 2024 — WHE8E9CBFBADF

A deep learning approach reveals that the fusion of the Yangzhou Ancient Canal and classical gardens creates a highly preferred landscape, characterized by 'Canal and Watercraft Remains.' Tourists' preferences are reflected in photographic content and element composition patterns, with dense preferences observed in northern sections. This study demonstrates an efficient and scalable method for evaluating landscape preferences along the Chinese Grand Canal, offering valuable insights for strategic planning and conservation efforts.

Using deep learning for enrichment of heritage BIM: Al Radwan house in historic Jeddah as a case study

Historic Jeddah, the Gate to Makkah — 2024 — WHE992C4639AA

A novel deep learning approach enhances the digitization of historic building geometry, addressing key challenges in heritage Building Information Modeling (BIM). By integrating laser scanner and unmanned aerial vehicle imagery data, researchers developed a scan-to-HBIM workflow that significantly improves the interpretation of spatial weathering forms and façade degradation. This method reduces subjective decision-making and resource demands while creating an HBIM library for Saudi Hijazi architectural elements. Applied to Al Radwan house in historic Jeddah—a UNESCO World Heritage site—this study provides stakeholders with a tool to identify, monitor, and analyze the types and extent of façade degradation, offering valuable insights for conservation efforts.

Using fruiting Ape food trees (Myrianthus holstii) to count sympatric mammals at Kahuzi-Biega National Park, Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo

Kahuzi-Biega National Park — 2024 — WHE075AF76FED

A novel approach using fruiting Myrianthus holstii trees as bait for camera traps successfully documented 23 mammal species, including the endangered Grauer's gorilla (Gorilla beringei graueri) and chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes schweinfurthii), in Kahuzi-Biega National Park. This cost-effective method revealed that ripe fruits attract a diverse range of mammals with no significant correlation to tree size, suggesting fruiting trees as reliable sampling points for biodiversity assessments. The study also highlighted distinct activity patterns, with 60% of species being diurnal and 30% nocturnal. These findings demonstrate the potential of this technique for large-scale mammal censuses in protected areas.

Using Geophysics to Locate Holocaust Era Mass Graves in Jewish Cemeteries: Examples from Latvia and Lithuania

Modernist Kaunas: Architecture of Optimism, 1919-1939 — 2024 — WHE082AF7B116

Geophysical surveys have identified potential mass graves in three Jewish cemeteries in Latvia and Lithuania, used during the Holocaust for burials of victims from ghettos and mass killings. Ground-penetrating radar (GPR) and electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) detected trench anomalies in Riga's Old Jewish Cemetery, corroborating survivor testimonies. In Kaunas' Zaliakalnis Cemetery, anomalies were found in a stone-less area, while preliminary GPR analysis suggested possible graves in Liepaja's Livas Cemetery. These findings align with historical accounts and suggest a high probability of mass burials at all sites. Future research aims to expand survey areas and incorporate additional geophysical methods.

Using ground crack and very low frequency measurements to map the location of the June 2007 Father’s Day dike, Kīlauea Volcano

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park — 2024 — WHE41E361DE31

Researchers successfully mapped the location of a dike intrusion during Kīlauea Volcano's June 2007 eruption using ground crack measurements and very low frequency (VLF) data. This study provides critical insights into volcanic processes, particularly the timing and extent of magma movement beneath the Earth's surface. The approach combined field observations with advanced geophysical techniques, enabling precise localization of the dike's path. Collaborations with USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, National Park Service, and University of Hawai'i at Hilo enhanced data collection efforts, including aerial surveys and crack station measurements in Nāpau Crater. The findings contribute to better understanding volcanic hazards and improving eruption response strategies.

Using the Heavy Metal Indices and Benthic Indices to Assess the Ecological Quality in the Tidal Flats of Garolim Bay, South Korea

Getbol, Korean Tidal Flats — 2024 — WHE47996B5A9C

A comprehensive assessment of the ecological quality in Garolim Bay's tidal flats reveals that despite low concentrations of heavy metals and total organic carbon, 63% of the stations exhibit unacceptable ecological conditions. The study utilized two heavy metal indices and five benthic indices to evaluate the ecosystem's health robustly. Notably, the Benthic Opportunistic Polychaetes Amphipods Index (BOPA) showed strong performance in correlation and kappa analyses, though it had some limitations. The research underscores the importance of using multiple indices for a more accurate ecological assessment, providing critical insights into the impacts of anthropogenic activities on tidal flat ecosystems.

Using Virtual Endocast to Measure Total Endocranial Volume of Orkhon Hyena Fossils

Orkhon Valley Cultural Landscape — 2024 — WHEDB9F819AC9

A new method using virtual endocasts derived from computer tomography (CT) scans has revealed insights into the brain volume of fossil hyenas from the Orkhon Valley Cultural Landscape. The study measured the total endocranial volume, including the frontal sinuses, of a cave hyena skull from the Bag-Nariinam hollow in Mongolia. This non-destructive approach allowed researchers to compare the findings with known brain volumes of extant and extinct hyaenids, providing evidence that Mongolia may have been one of the last habitats for cave hyenas during the Upper Pleistocene. The research also sheds light on the dispersal history of two cave hyena species—Crocuta spelaea and Crocuta ultima—in Asia, with Mongolia serving as a potential border between their ranges. Additionally, findings from Tsagaan-Agui Cave suggest that hyenas persisted in this region until the middle of the Last Glacial Maximum, long after their disappearance from Siberia.

Utilization of non-timber forest products as alternative sources of food and income in the highland regions of the Kahuzi-Biega National Park, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo

Kahuzi-Biega National Park — 2024 — WHE32F1AB81D3

Non-timber forest products (NTFPs) around Kahuzi-Biega National Park (KBNP), Democratic Republic of Congo, serve as a significant alternative income source and nutritious food for local communities. The study identified 55 NTFPs exploited primarily for self-consumption, contributing 23.3% to household incomes—second only to agriculture. Key species like Solanum nigrum, Termitomyces robustus, Amaranthus viridis, and Piper nigrum are rich in proteins, dietary fibers, zinc, and iron, though some require processing to mitigate anti-nutritional elements. While NTFPs create employment opportunities, challenges such as low market values (48.6%), short shelf life (22.5%), and excessive taxation hinder their potential. The research underscores the role of NTFPs in alleviating poverty and hidden hunger, advocating for their promotion to sustain livelihoods around protected areas.

Utilizing Controlled Source Audio-Frequency Magnetotelluric (CSAMT) Method for Subsurface Structural Characterization of Wadi Rum, Southwest Jordan

Wadi Rum Protected Area — 2024 — WHE5B71C30F3F

Research using the Controlled Source Audio-Frequency Magnetotelluric (CSAMT) method reveals that Wadi Rum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Jordan, features a subsurface graben-like structure with two distinct fault systems trending northeast and southwest. The study identified four distinct subsurface layers, including low-resistivity alluvial sediments, medium-grained sandstone, coarse basal conglomerates, and high-resistivity basement rocks. These findings provide critical insights for hazard assessment and urban development planning in the protected area, which sits at the junction of the African and Arabian tectonic plates.

Validating the Skills of Satellite Rainfall Products and Spatiotemporal Rainfall Variability Analysis over Omo River Basin in Ethiopia

Lower Valley of the Omo — 2024 — WHE2F542BC7C9

Satellite-based rainfall estimates are increasingly vital for assessing spatial and temporal rainfall variability, especially in data-scarce regions. A study validated nine satellite rainfall products over the Omo River Basin in Ethiopia, identifying MSWEP v2.2 as the most reliable. Using MSWEP, researchers analyzed long-term rainfall trends from 1990 to 2017, revealing significant variability with coefficients of variation (CV) exceeding 30% in southern, northern, southeastern, and central parts of the basin. The study also detected pronounced seasonal positive and negative anomalies, which can lead to floods or droughts, impacting the basin's resources. Trend analysis showed an increasing trend in southern portions and a declining trend in central to northern areas, with greater but non-significant variation across most of the basin.

Validation of Gross Primary Production Estimated by Remote Sensing for the Ecosystems of Doñana National Park through Improvements in Light Use Efficiency Estimation

Doñana National Park — 2024 — WHE9A3CCD17E0

A novel approach to estimating gross primary production (GPP) in Doñana National Park, Spain, demonstrates that the inclusion of the Sentinel-2 Land Surface Water Index (LSWI) significantly improves model accuracy compared to traditional light use efficiency (LUE) models. The study, validated with eddy covariance data from two distinct ecosystems—xeric shrubs and seasonal marshes—reveals that water status has a greater influence on GPP than meteorological variables in this water-scarce region. This finding underscores the potential of integrating remote sensing data to enhance carbon assimilation monitoring in heterogeneous landscapes, offering critical insights for global change research.

Valongo, the Place of the Ancestors: Spiritual Practices among Enslaved Africans in Nineteenth-century Rio de Janeiro

Valongo Wharf Archaeological Site — 2024 — WHE74856042D4

Archaeological research at Valongo Wharf, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Rio de Janeiro, has uncovered vestiges of spiritual practices among enslaved Africans who passed through the port during the 19th-century transatlantic slave trade. These findings, analyzed through a decolonial lens, challenge dominant narratives by centering the voices and experiences of subaltern populations, offering new insights into the resilience and cultural continuity of enslaved Africans despite the brutalities of colonialism. The study employs critical Latin American thought to reinterpret material remains, revealing the wharf's significance not only as a site of suffering but also as a place of memory where ancestral spiritual practices endured.

Valoración del reconocimiento del patrimonio industrial en las ciudades Patrimonio Mundial por la UNESCO: lecturas y miradas en el caso de Évora (Portugal), Capital Europea de la Cultura en 2027

Historic Centre of Évora — 2024 — WHE5A6C63E774

A recent analysis reveals that Évora's industrial heritage, pivotal to its urban development and modern identity, remains underrepresented in the city's narrative as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Despite being designated Capital Europea de la Cultura 2027, the study finds that this heritage is not adequately integrated into the city's historical stratification or its cultural capital proposal. The research evaluates Évora's application for the title, assessing whether and how its industrial legacy—symbolic of modernity and growth—is recognized in official documentation and public perception. By examining urban landscapes, historical records, and cultural policies, the study highlights a gap between Évora's industrial past and its current preservation efforts.

Valuasi Ekonomi Taman Nasional Ujung Kulon

Ujung Kulon National Park — 2024 — WHE6C8A17D364

A study on Ujung Kulon National Park estimated the economic value of marine tourism, revealing that visitors' willingness to pay amounts to Rp 512.898.500,00 annually. This value reflects the projected conservation benefits and tourism potential of the park's 1.619,68 Ha area, including both land and water zones. The research used a quantitative and qualitative survey method with purposive sampling to analyze factors such as travel cost, visit duration, and education level, which influence marine recreation demand. The findings highlight the park's significant economic potential for sustainable tourism development, aligning with central government goals and expected to drive broader regional progress.

Valuation of Ecosystem Services for Driving Community-assisted Forest Landscape Restoration in Endane Biodiversity Corridor, Sri Lanka

Sinharaja Forest Reserve — 2024 — WHEE9690DAA97

In the human-dominated southwest Sri Lanka, a forest landscape restoration project linking a peripheral forest reserve to Sinharaja Rainforest Complex was established. The study found that the Endane Biodiversity Corridor provides ecosystem services valued at 6,465 USD per hectare annually in 2021, totaling 382,362 USD for its 59.3 hectares. This value includes provisioning (1,950 USD/ha), supporting (645 USD/ha), regulating (3,807 USD/ha), and cultural services (38.8 USD/ha). Species-rich home gardens were found to generate significantly higher provisioning services compared to tea monocultures. The study highlights the potential for enhancing biodiversity in monoculture tea gardens and home gardens through agroforestry and enrichment planting, offering a strategy for community-assisted forest restoration. This approach is crucial for financing and encouraging local participation in conservation efforts.

Vanished Glories: Nin, Biograd, Šibenik

The Cathedral of St James in Šibenik — 2024 — WHED34D8006DA

Historical and cultural insights reveal the lost glories of Nin, Biograd, and Šibenik, particularly focusing on the UNESCO-listed Cathedral of St James. The study highlights the region's rich heritage, from its Croat origins and vanished capitals to its maritime significance as a 'Bride of the Sea' and Templar stronghold. It explores the diverse cultural layers—Muslim paradises, seafaring traditions of Zlarin, and architectural marvels like Šibenik Cathedral—while also touching on natural wonders such as the Krka Falls and Skradin's monastic heritage. The research approach combines historical narrative with geographical exploration, offering a multifaceted perspective on the area's past.

Variable breeding success and its implication in the conservation of endangered yellow‐eyed penguin ( Megadyptes antipodes ) at the New Zealand subantarctic Auckland Islands

New Zealand Sub-Antarctic Islands — 2024 — WHE3952E0FD1F

Breeding success of the endangered yellow-eyed penguin (Megadyptes antipodes) varies significantly over time, with a sharp decline observed in 2017 due to high egg mortality on Enderby Island, Auckland Islands. Despite higher fledging success compared to mainland New Zealand in some years, chicks were smaller and lighter, suggesting potential challenges in juvenile survival. The study highlights the need for ongoing monitoring across subantarctic populations to establish baseline productivity and assess the impact of anthropogenic stressors. Researchers analyzed 167 nests over three breeding seasons (2015–2017), tracking egg/chick mortality and fledging rates, alongside chick condition data from 276 individuals. These findings underscore the importance of consistent monitoring to inform conservation strategies for this declining species.

Variación espacial en la estación seca de las características fisicoquímicas del agua marino-costera en Bahia Damas, Parque Nacional Coiba, Panamá

Coiba National Park and its Special Zone of Marine Protection — 2024 — WHEAE06A1A29F

A study of Damas Bay in Coiba National Park, Panama, revealed significant depth-related variations in marine physicochemical parameters during the 2023 dry season. Temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, and electrical conductivity decreased with depth, while salinity, total dissolved solids, density, hydrostatic pressure, and nutrient concentrations increased. Nitrate levels were lower than previously reported for Coiba's dry season, averaging 0.33 μM up to 25 meters, whereas phosphate levels aligned with expected values (0.17 μM at 25 meters). The findings highlight the influence of depth and coastal proximity on nutrient dynamics, emphasizing the need for continued monitoring to detect seasonal and annual variations. This research was supported by SENACYT's macro project.

Variation in Niche and Interspecific Associations across Elevations in Subtropical Forest Communities of the Wuyi Mountains, Southeastern China

Mount Wuyi — 2024 — WHE6F027F9802

A study of subtropical forests in the Wuyi Mountains, China, reveals that plant species' niche overlap and interspecific associations vary significantly with elevation. The research found that while mid-elevations (560–1400 m) exhibit the strongest interactions between tree and shrub species, higher elevations show a marked decrease in niche overlap, suggesting diverse resource-use strategies adapted to environmental conditions. By analyzing 20 dominant tree and 23 shrub species across three elevation ranges (low, mid, and high), the study provides insights into the ecological processes shaping plant community structure in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Vegetation Analysis in the Archaeological Area of Pasargadae WHS (Iran) Enhancing the Naturalistic Value of the Site within the Occurring Environmental Changes

Pasargadae — 2024 — WHEA9E408B1CB

A pioneering vegetation analysis of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Pasargadae (Iran) reveals seven distinct plant communities shaped by environmental, edaphic, and anthropogenic factors. The study identifies key bioindicator species such as Launaea acanthodes and Stipa barbata, which reflect ecological gradients and human interventions, including water resource management. Hilly grassland communities were found to host the highest diversity of conservation-significant plants, emphasizing their critical need for protection. Climate data indicates increasing xeric conditions due to dam construction and irrigation, underscoring the urgency of preserving Pasargadae's naturalistic and historical values. This research provides a framework for integrating vegetation analysis into site management strategies amid environmental change.

Vegetation types and habitats with participation of plant species – local endemics to the marble part of Northern Pirin Mts., Bulgaria

Pirin National Park — 2024 — WHEE79C7868D0

A study of the marble part of Northern Pirin Mountains, Bulgaria—a UNESCO World Heritage Site and NATURA 2000 protected zone—reveals that eight local endemic plant species exhibit remarkable ecological flexibility despite their restricted range. These species, including Cyanus achtarovii and Arabis ferdinandi-coburgii, thrive across diverse vegetation types due to the uniformity of the high mountain marble relief. The research, employing Braun-Blanquet’s phytocoenological approach, classified these communities within major syntaxa and EUNIS habitats, underscoring the area's high conservation value as a refuge for rare and relict flora. This finding highlights the unique adaptive strategies of endemic species in alpine and subalpine carbonate environments.

Vegetational and Structural Features of Forest Clearings in Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park — 2024 — WHECA2B593DB8

A comprehensive analysis of forest clearings in Plitvice Lakes National Park reveals five distinct plant communities, with the Salicetum capreae being the most prevalent. The study identified 257 vascular plant species across 60 families, dominated by Asteraceae, and highlighted significant representation of hemicryptophytes (H) and Eurasian chorological types. Notably, 11 strictly protected, 6 nearly threatened, 3 vulnerable, 2 data-deficient, and 4 endemic species were documented. The research, employing taxonomic keys and the Braun-Blanquet approach, also found that most clearings have an anthropogenic origin, are irregular in shape, occupy small areas (<1000 m²), and are located along forest edges or roads. This study provides the first detailed vegetational and structural data for this habitat type, offering a foundation for future research.

Venezuelan Historical Archaeology. Current Perspectives on Contact, Colonialism, and Independence

Coro and its Port — 2024 — WHE033341BE61

This groundbreaking volume, the first comprehensive study of Venezuelan historical archaeology available in both English and Spanish, sheds new light on the country's complex past from precolonial times to the republican period. It reveals how indigenous experiences during colonialism, missionization, and commodity production shaped landscapes and societies, with a focus on key case studies like Coro and other foundational cities. The research integrates recent fieldwork and unpublished data, employing a critical historical approach to analyze everyday life, consumerism, and social practices surrounding death. By bridging gaps in Latin American archaeology, this bilingual work offers transformative insights for scholars globally.

Venice

Venice and its Lagoon — 2024 — WHE517967E6B0

Venice stands as a testament to human adaptation and resilience against environmental challenges. This comprehensive study reveals how the city has evolved from its origins to the present, responding to geographic constraints, industrialization, and mass tourism while maintaining its unique cultural identity. The research highlights Venice's dramatic urban transformations, its shifting political roles—from a powerful city-state to an overseas empire—and its enduring impact on art, architecture, and music. By examining the lives of its diverse inhabitants, from nobles to commoners, Christians to Jews, the study offers a multifaceted perspective on how Venice has shaped and been shaped by its environment, providing critical insights into its vulnerability and future in the face of rising sea levels.

Venice Charter and the Development of Authenticity

Historic Centre of Warsaw — 2024 — WHE96ED372001

The concept of authenticity in heritage conservation has evolved significantly since the Venice Charter of 1964, shifting from a focus solely on original materials to encompass both tangible and intangible attributes. This shift was catalyzed by the inclusion of intangible heritage criteria in World Heritage Site inscriptions, notably influenced by Japan's contributions. Case studies such as Abu Simbel, the Historic Centre of Warsaw, and Mostar Bridge illustrate how major interventions or reconstructions can influence the perceived authenticity of a site, with material characteristics playing a crucial role in shaping the 'truthful experience' of heritage. The study underscores the dynamic nature of authenticity, shaped by societal values and evolving chartered definitions.

Verbal Autopsy and Outbreak Investigation of Anthrax in Livestock and Wildlife at the Virunga National Park Interface Area, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Virunga National Park — 2024 — WHEC7788FFBE5

A study confirms the presence of Bacillus anthracis, the causative agent of anthrax, in North Kivu province, Democratic Republic of the Congo, highlighting its significant impact on both livestock and wildlife within the Virunga National Park interface area. The research reveals that while farmers exhibit a strong awareness of anthrax—identifying clinical symptoms and attempting prevention—they also engage in unhealthy practices related to handling and consuming contaminated meat. Transhumance livestock systems, human activities, and the absence of surveillance programs are identified as primary contributors to outbreaks. Conducted through a cross-sectional survey in 2015 and an outbreak investigation in 2021, the study underscores the urgent need for collaborative surveillance efforts to mitigate this zoonotic threat and its socioeconomic consequences.

Vertebrate Fossil Permineralization in a Sequence Stratigraphic Context: Capsules of Early Diagenesis from Shallow-marine Siliciclastics (Eocene, Egypt)

Wadi Al-Hitan (Whale Valley) — 2024 — WHEDB1354D44B

Vertebrate fossil bones from Wadi Al-Hitan, Egypt, act as 'time-capsules' of early diagenetic conditions, preserving authigenic minerals and microtaphonomic features linked to their original Eocene depositional context. Analysis using µXRF and petrography revealed distinct preservation patterns based on stratigraphic position: bones along sequence boundaries show Fe-oxide linings and evidence of desiccation, while those from systems tracts exhibit calcite microfacies consistent with subaqueous deposition. This study highlights the sensitivity of fossil preservation to post-mortem environmental conditions, offering new insights into the taphonomic processes that shape the fossil record.

Vertical ozone formation mechanisms resulting from increased oxidation on the mountainside of Mount Tai, China

Mount Taishan — 2024 — WHEAD91AE1610

A study on Mount Taishan, China, reveals that vertical ozone (O3) formation mechanisms differ significantly between the mountainside and ground level. Unlike the VOC-limited regime observed at surface sites, the mountainside exhibits a NOx-limited regime due to lower NO levels, which restrict hydroxyl radical (OH) recycling reactions. This leads to earlier O3 peaks, higher concentrations of hydroperoxy radicals (HO2), and organic peroxy radicals (RO2). The arrival of fresh air masses rich in NO accelerates OH radical cycling, enhancing atmospheric oxidation and impacting surface O3 concentrations through vertical transport. Simulations indicate that considering vertical transport reduces the peak O3 production rate at the surface due to differences in O3 formation sensitivity vertically. This study underscores the significant sensitivity of O3 formation to NO within the boundary layer (BL) and highlights the potential impact of vertical in situ O3 formation on surface-level concentrations, particularly in cities with mountainous terrain.

Vibration vulnerability assessment of heritage structures in Lahore: a step towards sustainable conservation

Fort and Shalamar Gardens in Lahore — 2024 — WHECFE01058DE

A significant portion of Lahore's heritage structures, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Shalamar Gardens and Lahore Fort, are vulnerable to ground-borne vibrations from modern infrastructure development. This study reveals that 17% of these structures face immediate risk, with road traffic being the predominant source (72%) of vibrational impact. Researchers employed a vibration vulnerability assessment framework from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) to map risks using remote surveys and Google Earth data, validating findings experimentally at Buddha's Tomb. The resulting vibration vulnerability map provides actionable insights for policymakers to prioritize conservation efforts, ensuring sustainable preservation of these cultural landmarks.

Villa Tugendhat, 1930

Tugendhat Villa in Brno — 2024 — WHEAC4BCC3251

The Villa Tugendhat, designed by Mies van der Rohe and completed in 1930, redefines modernist architecture's relationship with landscape. Unlike traditional modernist designs that treat buildings as abstract figures against natural backdrops, this villa uses innovative glazing technology to dissolve architectural boundaries, immersing viewers in the surrounding environment. Its south-facing salon features six floor-to-ceiling glass panes, two of which fully retract into the basement, creating an unprecedented openness that heightens the viewer's connection to nature. This study highlights how the villa’s design reflects technological advancements and modernist attitudes toward landscape, offering a narrative about the era’s architectural innovations.

Villae d’otium della Penisola sorrentino-amalfitana. Un confronto tra la Villa San Marco a Stabiae e la Villa marittima di Minori in Costiera Amalfitana

Costiera Amalfitana — 2024 — WHE3DDB7F353D

A comparative analysis of two ancient coastal villas—Villa San Marco near Stabiae and the maritime villa in Minori on the Amalfi Coast—reveals how architectural design adapts to distinct landscape and geomorphological conditions. The study highlights that while both villas share common architectural roots, their structures diverge significantly based on local terrain and accessibility constraints. Villa San Marco, situated on Varano Hill with proximity to Stabiae, reflects a more integrated relationship with its urban context, whereas the isolated villa in Minori, historically accessible only by sea, exhibits unique adaptations to its coastal setting. This research underscores the influence of site-specific factors on the evolution of non-urban architectural complexes along the Campanian coast.

Vínculos Territoriales en las Misiones Jesuíticas-Guaraníes de Paraguay, Argentina y Brasil: un Enfoque de Análisis de Redes.

Jesuit Missions of the Guaranis: San Ignacio Mini, Santa Ana, Nuestra Señora de Loreto and Santa Maria Mayor (Argentina), Ruins of Sao Miguel das Missoes (Brazil) — 2024 — WHE0AB3DE8AFF

This study reveals the spatial interactions and territorial dynamics of the Jesuit-Guarani missions, a renowned tourist route spanning Paraguay, Argentina, and Brazil. By integrating qualitative and quantitative techniques with network analysis software (Gephi) and Geographic Information Systems (GIS), researchers mapped the relationships between these historical sites, highlighting how tourism flows shape their interconnectedness. The concept of 'friction of space' was employed to elucidate the complexities of these territorial links, offering new insights into the spatial organization and heritage significance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Virtual Field Trips Borobudur Temple Assisted with Songs in Stimulating Writing Skills of Descriptive Texts

Borobudur Temple Compounds — 2024 — WHED569266442

A virtual field trip to Borobudur Temple, combined with song assistance, significantly enhances students' descriptive text writing skills. This innovative approach outperformed traditional methods like static images, as demonstrated by a quasi-experimental study involving 52 students. The experimental group showed marked improvement in developing ideas and expanding vocabulary through song lyrics, translating into more detailed and informative descriptive texts. Statistical analysis confirmed the effectiveness of this multimedia learning tool (p < 0.05), suggesting its potential to revolutionize language education by blending cultural exploration with creative expression.

Virtual reconstruction of destroyed fortifications: the case study of Santa Caterina in Verona

City of Verona — 2024 — WHE93A7B4C122

A virtual reconstruction of the destroyed Fort of Santa Caterina in Verona reveals its historical significance as a strategic and architecturally notable military structure. Originally built between 1848 and 1856, the fortification, known as Werk Hess, played a pivotal role in the city's defense due to its dominant position and naturalistic integration into the landscape. Despite its current state of disrepair—with only remnants remaining—the study leverages surveying techniques, source analysis, and spatial representation to resurrect its former grandeur. This approach not only sheds light on its architectural and strategic importance but also lays the groundwork for further multi-disciplinary analyses of the fort and its surroundings.

Vision and Site: Revisiting a Pure Land Cave of Dunhuang

Mogao Caves — 2024 — WHE8DDA125FA1

A transformative viewing experience was crafted through the spatial construct of Buddhist paradise in Mogao Cave 172, a high Tang period (710–780 CE) Pure Land cave in Dunhuang, Gansu, China. The study reveals that architectural images and spaces, along with strategies like spatial layering, self-symmetry, scaling, and multimedia practices of cave-making, enhanced the situatedness of utopian vision. By analyzing visual contents, compositions, painting mediums, cave spaces, and cliff sites, the research illustrates how Pure Land imageries were integrated with architectural spaces to convey an invitation to the Pure Land.

Visitors’ Attitudes Toward the Expansion of Alternative Shuttle Bus System in Shiretoko National Park

Shiretoko — 2024 — WHE7FE96DAD08

A majority of visitors to Shiretoko National Park, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site renowned for its brown bear habitat, support the expansion of shuttle bus services as an alternative to private vehicles. A questionnaire survey revealed that features such as guided tours and optional experiences significantly encouraged visitors to switch to shuttle buses, despite low awareness of the pilot program. However, some visitors still preferred their cars, highlighting the need for improved promotion. The study used a choice experiment to assess visitor preferences, offering insights into balancing visitor convenience with conservation goals in protected areas.