Ancient Villages in Southern Anhui – Xidi and Hongcun
—
2023 —
WHEDA203AE57B
Research on Hongcun Village, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site in China, reveals that the spatial form of its historical streets significantly influences both vitality and human cognition. The study found a positive correlation between the integration, intelligibility, and optionality of traditional street space and people's perception of vitality. Notably, residents and tourists perceive these spaces differently due to their distinct identities and awareness levels. Using Space Syntax theory for quantitative spatial analysis and cognitive imagery to explore mental perceptions, the research provides insights into how spatial morphology shapes behavior and cognition. This dual approach offers a framework for policymakers to balance preservation with tourism development, ensuring sustainable space allocation in traditional villages.
Medina of Fez
—
2023 —
WHE167EAE1B22
Fez’s medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1981, has undergone significant transformations shaped by tourism development and urban rehabilitation efforts. This study reveals that the medina's contemporary identity is formed through competing yet complementary spatial imaginaries, driven by diverse local and international actors. These imaginaries, emerging from daily practices and initiatives, redefine the medina’s role as both a tourist destination and a lived urban environment. The research qualitatively analyzes these transformations, offering insights into the conditions that foster new spatial narratives in Morocco's historical medinas. Such findings contribute to broader debates on heritage preservation and local identity reinvention.
The Jantar Mantar, Jaipur
—
2023 —
WHE65666BBDFF
New Delhi's public spaces, particularly around Parliament Street and sites like Jantar Mantar, Ramlila Maidan, and the Boat Club, have evolved through decades of protest, shaping democratic guidelines for dissent. The study reveals that while early post-independence enthusiasm for a shared public sphere was met with diverse opposition, government responses transitioned from colonial crowd control to democratic containment strategies. Key demonstrations, such as the JP Movement at Jantar Mantar, led to the designation of specific protest sites, illustrating how spatial contestations between state and citizens redefined public space use. The research bridges spatial and socio-cultural theories to analyze these dynamics beyond architectural grandeur.
Historic City of Yazd
—
2023 —
WHE80851DFF26
Dilapidated abandoned buildings (DABs) in historic cities contribute to the breakdown of sense of community identification and place, indicating a lack of spatial liminality. This study introduces spatial liminality as an epistemological tool for revitalizing disused urban fabrics, demonstrating that in-between spaces once facilitated spatial liminality, which was crucial for the formation of sense of place and citizenship during premodern eras. Using a mixed-method approach—combining questionnaire surveys, field studies, and interpretive historical analysis—the research investigates 12 urban blocks in historic Yazd and Kashan. The findings suggest that reutilizing DABs while preserving their heritage values can restore spatial liminality and strengthen community identity.
Three Parallel Rivers of Yunnan Protected Areas
—
2023 —
WHE7F4EEB2341
Research identifies five distinct national park agglomerations in the Greater Shangri-La region of China, covering 52 protected areas. These agglomerations—Three Parallel Rivers, Shaluli Mountain-Daxue Mountain, Southeast Tibetan Plateau, Liangshan Mountain, and Panxi Rift—exhibit spatial clustering, diverse ecosystem types, and rich natural and cultural heritage. The study introduces a screening framework based on ecoregions, using indicators such as ecosystem characteristics, landscape type, cultural heritage, spatial distance, and protection management to assess these agglomerations. This approach enhances ecological protection by establishing functional connections between protected areas and improving regional conservation strategies. The findings provide a model for global national park agglomeration development.
Port, Fortresses and Group of Monuments, Cartagena
—
2023 —
WHE93397946BE
Research reveals significant seasonal and spatial variability in turbidity levels in Cartagena Bay, Colombia, with the southern area experiencing the most pronounced changes. Using Sentinel-2 imagery from 2018 to 2022, scientists developed an empirical algorithm validated with high accuracy (R² = 0.83), identifying turbidity peaks of up to 35 FNU during the rainy season and as low as 1 FNU in the dry season. This study provides a new tool for monitoring water quality, addressing challenges posed by sediment influx from the Canal del Dique, which threatens the bay's economic and environmental importance.
Djerba: Testimony to a settlement pattern in an island territory
—
2023 —
WHE8A1B23F65E
A study of Djerba Island's coastal waters reveals distinct summer microphytoplankton and zooplankton communities shaped by varying pollution levels. The Western Area (WA), marked by high nitrogen nutrients, hosts a dominance of Bacillariophyceae, including adaptive species like Chaetoceros and Navicula, alongside pollution-tolerant copepods such as Paracalanus parvus. Conversely, the Eastern Area (EA) exhibits lower inorganic nitrogen but higher Cyanobacteria abundance, possibly linked to DIP concentrations, with other zooplankton dominating. Despite industrial activities, Djerba's coastal waters maintain a diverse plankton ecosystem, illustrating resilience amid human pressure.
Historic Ensemble of the Potala Palace, Lhasa
—
2023 —
WHE5EB821EE53
Hikers exhibit distinct spatial-temporal behaviors compared to traditional tourists, with significant implications for sustainable tourism planning and management. A study analyzing the southeastern margin of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau—home to multiple UNESCO World Heritage Sites—revealed that hikers differ markedly in travel duration, mode, and destination preferences. Researchers leveraged volunteered geographic information (VGI) alongside seasonal intensity indices, kernel density analysis, line density analysis, and K-means clustering to map these patterns. The findings highlight critical insights for regional tourism development, particularly in balancing conservation with visitor engagement in this ecologically and culturally rich area.
Three Parallel Rivers of Yunnan Protected Areas
—
2023 —
WHE53AA5F6575
From 2000 to 2020, vegetation in Yunnan Province, China, showed significant improvement as indicated by increasing Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) values. However, future trends suggest potential degradation due to rising temperatures driven by global warming. The study analyzed spatial-temporal NDVI patterns using MODIS data and meteorological records from 25 weather stations, revealing a southwest-to-northeast shift in the center of gravity for Yunnan's vegetation. Statistical methods like Sen+MK, coefficient of variation, and Hurst index assessed trends and stability, while partial correlation analysis linked NDVI changes to temperature and precipitation. The research underscores the urgent need to protect Yunnan's ecological environment, particularly in protected areas like the Three Parallel Rivers, which are vulnerable to climate-induced shifts.
Mount Huangshan
—
2023 —
WHEDF6C073812
A recent study reveals that Huangshan City's tourism ecological security (TES) has shown rapid improvement, yet disparities between districts and counties are widening. The research, using the PSR-EES model combined with entropy weight TOPSIS, traditional and spatial Markov chains, and panel quantile regression, found that TES levels exhibit stability and path dependence in their spatial-temporal dynamics, with lower-level areas showing a higher probability of upward transfer influenced by neighborhood background. Key drivers include environmental pollution and economic development, which negatively impact TES but decrease in effect as security levels improve. Conversely, government intervention and educational levels positively influence TES, with regional greening and government efforts having stronger effects on lower-level areas. This study highlights the complex interplay between ecological, economic, and social factors in sustaining tourism ecological security.
Qinghai Hoh Xil
—
2023 —
WHE42753BDD7B
Qinghai Province, known as the 'Water Tower' of northwestern China, has experienced significant expansion in its surface water area from 1986 to 2018, primarily driven by rising temperatures and increased precipitation. This trend was most pronounced in the Qaidam Basin, Hoh Xil Nature Reserve, and Qinghai Lake. Researchers leveraged Google Earth Engine (GEE) cloud processing to analyze spatial-temporal variations of surface water, providing critical insights into the ecological impacts of climate change on this vital region.
Sacred City of Anuradhapura
—
2023 —
WHE687FB00303
Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka's ancient and revered Buddhist city, emerged as the focal point of Sinhala-Buddhist identity at the turn of the 20th century. This transformation was driven by local leaders who resisted colonial attempts to archeologize and museumize the site while asserting its centrality in religious and nationalist discourse. They sought to eliminate non-Buddhist activities and challenge the dominance of the Kandy-based Buddhist order, reshaping the spatiality of Sinhala-Buddhist imagination. The study analyzes this complex interplay through a lens of nationalism, religion, and colonialism, highlighting local agency's role in redefining Anuradhapura's significance amid shifting political power dynamics.
Manas Wildlife Sanctuary
—
2023 —
WHE820DDB96A1
Significant declines in grassland areas, alongside rising encroachment and shifts in river courses, have been observed in Manas National Park—a UNESCO-listed Eastern Himalayan heritage site—between 1973 and 2022. This study leverages geospatial technology to document land-use changes over nearly five decades, offering a critical baseline for conservation efforts amid historical inaccessibility due to insurgency. The findings underscore the dual threats of natural dynamics and human encroachment on this biodiversity hotspot.
The Grand Canal
—
2023 —
WHE9DDC200098
Research reveals significant spatial and temporal variations in intangible cultural heritage (ICH) along the Beijing–Hangzhou Grand Canal, with distinct patterns between northern and southern regions. Using advanced geospatial analysis, including kernel density estimation and standard deviation ellipse modeling, the study identified directional trends and shifting centers of gravity for ICH distribution. Key drivers include natural geography, socioeconomic factors, and policy environments, while a strong positive correlation was found between ICH resources and tourism development. This finding underscores the potential for heritage-led tourism planning in the canal basin.
Qinghai Hoh Xil
—
2023 —
WHEE06F79267A
Researchers have identified that the Salt Lake in Qinghai Hoh Xil, following the 2011 Zonag Lake outburst, is rapidly expanding at a rate of approximately 350% across all directions, primarily toward the southeast. Without intervention such as an emergency drainage channel, machine learning models predict the lake's overflow could occur as early as 2020 and potentially as late as 2031. The study employed Classification and Regression Trees (CART), Random Forest (RF), and Support Vector Machine (SVM) algorithms to analyze spatiotemporal variations from 1973 to 2021, with RF demonstrating superior accuracy in lake area extraction (KAPPA = 0.98, overall accuracy = 0.99). The normalized difference water index was found to be a key feature variable. This research highlights the potential risks posed by such hydrological changes and underscores the effectiveness of machine learning in predicting environmental shifts.
Residences of the Royal House of Savoy
—
2023 —
WHE10515533A9
Balancing conservation and innovation is critical for the sustainable restoration of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, as demonstrated by ongoing projects at the Residences of the Royal House of Savoy in Piedmont. Since their inclusion on the World Heritage List in 1997, these monumental sites—comprising architecture, gardens, and parks—have faced challenges in addressing unresolved spaces while preserving cultural significance. Research highlights the need for high-quality interventions that align with institutional protection goals and adapt to evolving cultural demands, particularly during challenging historical periods. Projects at Aglié, Govone, and Racconigi Residences illustrate this balance, emphasizing systematic restoration strategies that ensure both authenticity and contemporary relevance.
Pre-Hispanic City of Chichen-Itza
—
2023 —
WHEF8794CE504
Archaeological research has challenged long-standing assumptions about the Pre-Hispanic City of Chichen Itza, revealing significant gaps in its historical narrative. Traditionally, Chichen Itza's chronology and cultural events were derived from historical documents and architectural features attributed to non-Maya groups like the Toltecs. However, recent advancements in archaeological studies across Terminal Classic period sites in Yucatan have exposed limitations in these interpretations, leading to a paradigm shift. This summary introduces a special section that explores how modern archaeology is reshaping our understanding of Chichen Itza's social and cultural development during its peak, moving beyond reliance on historical sources.
Xinjiang Tianshan
—
2023 —
WHE535C67C97B
A study on the Bayinbuluke alpine meadow in Xinjiang's Tianshan Mountains reveals that species niche breadth, overlap, and interspecific associations shift significantly along a fertilization gradient. Key findings include a decrease in species richness with increasing fertilization, while the importance of Festuca ovina and Poa annua rises under fertilization treatments. Niche width expands positively with critical values under fertilization, unlike controls, indicating altered competitive dynamics. Under low fertilization gradients, species exhibit positive correlations, suggesting cooperative interactions, whereas higher gradients show negative associations, pointing to increased competition. The research uses ecological statistics, variance ratio analysis, Pearson’s correlation, and association coefficient tests to explore these relationships, offering insights into the stable coexistence of populations under varying resource conditions.
Comoé National Park
—
2023 —
WHE0D2037EBF2
A comprehensive inventory of migratory landbirds in Comoé National Park, Ivory Coast, identified 72 species, with peak visitation occurring in March and April. The study, conducted from September 2017 to August 2019 across four habitats—savannahs, forest islands, gallery forests, and ponds—revealed distinct phenological patterns: intra-African and mixed migratory species were present year-round, while Palearctic-originating species frequented the park for nine months (September to early May). Using the listening point method at 63 locations, researchers recorded a total of 17,713 individuals, averaging 1,476.77±99.70 per month. This study provides critical insights into the temporal dynamics and composition of migratory landbirds in a UNESCO World Heritage Site, highlighting the importance of habitat diversity for avian migration.
Djerba: Testimony to a settlement pattern in an island territory
—
2023 —
WHE67B17028E1
Biodiversity of benthic macrofauna is significantly higher along the western coast of Tunis Bay compared to Djerba Island's coast, despite both sites being influenced by anthropogenic pressures. The study analyzed 21 stations—11 on Djerba and 10 in Tunis Bay—using traditional nonparametric biodiversity indices. While community composition differed between the two sites, with species ranks shifting across stations, Djerba's biodiversity has declined due to industrial, urban, and fishing activities, contrasting with Tunis Bay's relatively more stable conditions. The findings underscore the impact of human activity on marine ecosystems, particularly in UNESCO-recognized areas like Djerba.
Al-Ahsa Oasis, an Evolving Cultural Landscape
—
2023 —
WHEE3EB800A2B
A rapid expansion of urban areas in the Al-Ahsa Oasis, Saudi Arabia, was quantified using spectral mixture analysis (SMA) with high precision (~95% to 100%), revealing a nearly 9% increase between 2010 and 2020. This study leveraged Landsat and Sentinel-2A satellite imagery from 1990 to 2020, employing principal component analysis (PCA) to refine endmembers for SMA modeling. The research highlights the effectiveness of SMA in mapping urban fractions in arid and semi-arid oases, where mixed-pixel problems are prevalent. Additionally, it discusses potential drivers behind this urban growth, providing critical insights for ecosystem management in vulnerable landscapes.
Mount Athos
—
2023 —
WHE3302B964A9
Mount Athos stands as a millennia-old center for spiritual guidance, attracting disciples and pilgrims with its enduring monastic tradition. This volume explores the multifaceted aspects of this tradition, tracing its roots back to the fourth-century desert fathers and examining its contemporary manifestations across Greece and globally. The papers, originally presented at a 2013 conference organized by the Friends of Mount Athos, delve into the roles of monks, nuns, spiritual fathers, confessors, and lay individuals in perpetuating this tradition. Through a combination of historical analysis, theological reflection, and case studies, the collection offers a comprehensive examination of the enduring influence and adaptability of Athonite spiritual guidance.
Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park with the Archeological Sites of Paestum and Velia, and the Certosa di Padula
—
2023 —
WHE778DA0C0F6
Spontaneous officinal plants in the Cilento, Vallo di Diano and Alburni National Park hold significant potential for local economic development through their traditional medicinal uses and novel applications. The study reveals that these plants can serve as effective sources of anti-germination agents, with aqueous extracts demonstrating promise for weed control in agriculture. Additionally, historical evidence from the territory of Sanza on Monte Cervati highlights past industrial activity, particularly lavender essential oil distillation, which could further enhance territorial resources. Biometric surveys and biomass evaluations were conducted to assess productive potential, while chemical-physical analyses characterized hydrolates recovered via steam distillation. Ethnobotanical data underscored diverse traditional uses in medicine, nutrition, rituals, and religion, suggesting a multifaceted approach to recovery and enhancement of the park's heritage.
Robben Island
—
2023 —
WHE3202F5C790
A rare sighting of a Spotted Gully Shark (Triakis megalopterus) at Robben Island, 7 km from the mainland in Table Bay, South Africa, was documented on 18 February 2023 during high tide. This observation extends the known range of this shark species, which is typically found along coastal regions but rarely venturing so far from shore. The brief encounter highlights the potential for unexpected biodiversity discoveries even at well-studied sites like Robben Island. The study relied on direct observation and timing relative to tidal conditions, offering insights into the species' behavior and distribution in this unique marine environment.
Putorana Plateau
—
2023 —
WHE09A61DE58E
Spring migration of water and semiaquatic birds on the Putorana Plateau occurs from May 19 to June 27, with peak activity between May 25 and June 17. This period sees up to 68 species, including dominant ones like Eurasian Wigeon, Common Teal, and Northern Pintail, migrating north, east, or west, often stopping at early-thawing river deltas. Population densities range from 15 to 227 individuals per kilometer of coastline, with higher concentrations in western regions where up to 30,000 birds may pass through surveyed points. The study analyzed eight survey sites across 250,000 km² using route censuses, revealing that lake populations are consistently smaller than those on adjacent river sections.
Huanglong Scenic and Historic Interest Area
—
2023 —
WHEC00CF9E31C
A study assessing the long-term ecological stability of Chinese pine (Pinus tabuliformis Carr.) plantations in Huanglong Mountain reveals that 79.5% exhibit moderate stability while 20.5% show good stability. Using a novel unit circle method to evaluate biological, resistance, and functional stability across 44 plots, researchers found most plantations exhibit random distribution, moderate size differentiation, low species mixing, and high crowding. Correlations between stability and spatial structure parameters identified mingling as the strongest factor influencing stability, while crowding showed no significant impact. The study highlights specific spatial structures negatively linked to stability, offering targeted management insights for enhancing plantation resilience through strategic thinning. This methodology serves as a reference for similar ecosystems with comparable functions and conditions.
Saltaire
—
2023 —
WHEE00FD3F659
This study identifies the distinctiveness of Cadbury's Bournville enterprise within the broader context of industrial communities, highlighting its unique approach to leisure provision and cultural offerings. By comparing Bournville with other notable sites such as New Lanark, Saltaire, Bromborough Pool, Lever Brothers' Port Sunlight factory, and Rowntree’s in York, the research traces synergies and differences that underscore Cadbury's core values and ambitions. The analysis reveals how Bournville's 'Spirit,' an internal energy embodying Cadbury’s ethos as both employer and manufacturer, sets it apart from its contemporaries. Through a comparative approach, the study situates Bournville within wider industrial networks while emphasizing its unique cultural contributions.
The Jantar Mantar, Jaipur
—
2023 —
WHE8C4FE26F77
A rare and complex staircase at the Villa Medici of Pratolino, built for Grand Duke Francesco I de’ Medici in the late 16th century, serves a dual purpose: functioning as a sundial while incorporating small water jets. This unique design, described by philosopher Francesco de’ Vieri in his 1586 work <em>Discorsi delle maravigliose opere di Pratolino e d’Amore</em>, links meteorological science and spiritual ascent to God, drawing from Aristotelian and Platonic thought. The study examines parallels between this staircase and other historical sundials, including those in the Jantar Mantar observatories of Maharajah Jai Singh II (1724–1727) in Mughal India, highlighting their symbolic significance across cultures. Through textual analysis, the research reveals how such architectural innovations reflect divine wonder and spiritual symbolism in Renaissance and Mughal contexts.
Australian Convict Sites
—
2023 —
WHE1A35D21143
Advocates for preserving New Caledonia's bagne (penal colony) sites have increasingly drawn parallels with Australia's convict heritage approaches, revealing distinct historical and political contexts. This study highlights how New Caledonia's efforts to conserve these sites are intertwined with France's post-war recolonization and growing tensions between Kanak and Caldoche communities. It also explores the role of the concept 'un destin commun' (a shared destiny), which emerged from 1988 and 1998 reconciliatory agreements, in shaping the narrative of the penal colony's history. The research compares these approaches with Australia's over a similar period, underscoring the centrality of Australia in New Caledonia's current bid for UNESCO World Heritage status for bagne sites.
Chavin (Archaeological Site)
—
2023 —
WHEB71758F256
Starch analysis of culinary ceramics from Chavin de Huantar reveals the presence of diverse plant foods, including maize, beans, olluco, and possibly chili peppers, during the Middle (1100–900 BC) and Late Formative periods (900–550 BC). This microbotanical evidence, derived from domestic contexts and a large midden in the Wacheqsa sector, provides insights into ancient Andean dietary practices. The study employed starch grain analysis to identify plant residues on ceramic surfaces, offering a window into the agricultural and culinary traditions of pre-Hispanic societies in the region.
Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodh Gaya
—
2023 —
WHE8A974DB5FD
Two Shaivite monasteries, one of which was the custodian of the Mahabodhi Temple at Bodh Gaya, received significant state patronage from the Mughals through madad-i ma‘ash grants. These institutions not only preserved religious and cultural heritage but also adapted to changing political regimes, surviving under Mughal rule, British colonialism, and post-independence India. The study reveals how these monasteries maintained their traditional roles—such as specialized knowledge dissemination in Shaivism and banking—despite shifts in governance, offering a rare insight into the resilience of medieval Indian institutions.
Port, Fortresses and Group of Monuments, Cartagena
—
2023 —
WHEC7E125867D
Research demonstrates that optimizing port terminal operations can significantly reduce congestion and improve efficiency. A study applied statistical tools, including sensitivity analysis and Monte Carlo simulations, to evaluate economic and financial risks in port planning, revealing critical variables like terminal performance and infrastructure utilization as key factors. The findings highlight the importance of flexible scheduling for ships, showing that even a 6-hour window can halve congestion-related anchoring, while a 24-hour window can eliminate it entirely. To address complex multi-client liquid bulk terminals where competing interests arise, the study developed HADES, a multi-agent platform tested in Cartagena's port, which effectively reduces congestion through limited information sharing among stakeholders. This approach leverages mixed-integer linear programming (MILP) models to optimize berth allocation, offering solutions for dynamic and challenging port management scenarios.
Fort and Shalamar Gardens in Lahore
—
2023 —
WHE55F7731C5F
Air pollution levels in Lahore, Pakistan, significantly exceed environmental standards, with the highest concentrations of gaseous pollutants and particulate matter recorded near industrial and high-traffic areas. The study found that carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NO and NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), ozone (O3), PM10, and PM2.5 levels surpassed Punjab Environmental Quality Standards (PEQS) across all monitored sites, with the worst conditions observed at Lahore Fort for PM10 (156.17 µg/m³) and SO2 (129.31 µg/m³). Vehicular and industrial emissions were identified as primary contributors to this pollution. The findings underscore the urgent need for stricter industrial pollution controls and public awareness campaigns to mitigate health risks associated with poor air quality.
Sagarmatha National Park
—
2023 —
WHECA5FC319B7
A population of 67 Himalayan Monals (Lophophorus impejanus), including 48 males and 19 females, was recorded in Sagarmatha National Park between February and June 2022. These birds were predominantly found in pure pine forests across five blocks—Namche, Furte, Syangboche, Mislung, and Kyangjuma—with a density of 4.69 birds/km², peaking at 7.26 birds/km² in the Namche Block. The study used line transect surveys, direct/indirect evidence (e.g., sightings, scratching marks), and Digital Elevation Models to map distribution between 3250 m and 4021 m above sea level. Key threats identified included habitat degradation, free-ranging dogs, and human disturbance.
Golden Mountains of Altai
—
2023 —
WHEBDE9447E36
Steppe Eagles (Aquila nipalensis) in the Altai-Sayan Ecoregion exhibit high philopatry, with most returning to natal regions by sexual maturity and occupying areas within 50 km of their birth nests. However, breeding pairs often dissolve due to mortality, primarily from poisoning outside their breeding range, with a notable decline in Khakassia (3.16% decrease between 2018–2022) and stabilization in Tyva at 305–410 pairs. While the species shows dietary flexibility, relying on roadkill and colonial burrowing rodents, threats like anticoagulant poisoning, avian botulism, and human activities (e.g., deratization, shooting) persist. The study highlights the need for further research into chemical contamination and wintering ground mortality to mitigate population declines.
Ancient Buddhist Site of Sarnath
—
2023 —
WHE15081156D3
Sarnath, the site where the Buddha delivered his first sermon, has remained on UNESCO's tentative World Heritage List for nearly 25 years despite its significance as a Buddhist pilgrimage destination. Research indicates that endogenous factors such as strict archaeological protection by the ASI, limited private-sector accommodation, and lack of independent governance have hindered tourism-led development. Exogenous factors, including the dominance of Varanasi's Hindu cultural offerings and Sarnath's secondary status in visitor itineraries, further contribute to its under-development. Fieldwork conducted in 2019 revealed multi-layered contestations that perpetuate this stagnation, highlighting the need for balanced heritage management and governance structures to unlock Sarnath's potential as a global religious and cultural destination.
Mount Sanqingshan National Park
—
2023 —
WHED303025DC8
Tourists' perception of Outstanding Universal Value (OUV) at UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as Mount Sanqingshan National Park, significantly influences their conservation behavior. A study using the Stimulus-Organism-Response (S-O-R) framework and structural equation modeling with 563 tourist samples found that OUV attractiveness positively affects tourists' value perception and destination attachment, which in turn enhances their heritage protection intentions. Additionally, heritage-conservation education and positive attitudes toward conservation further strengthen these behaviors. The research proposes a framework linking cognitive and affective attitudes to heritage protection intention, ultimately benefiting the sustainable development of both tourist industries and World Heritage Sites.
Ningaloo Coast
—
2023 —
WHE1BCDAF84B2
A tiger shark at Ningaloo Reef, Western Australia, demonstrated the rare ability to retract its everted stomach after being captured and released. This behavior was documented using video and tri-axial acceleration sensors, providing the first record of such retraction in the wild. The finding highlights the resilience of tiger sharks to stressful capture events, though further research is needed to confirm this trait in other shark species. The study employed tagging and sensor technology to overcome logistical challenges in observing post-release behaviors, offering new insights into shark physiology and recovery.
Murujuga Cultural Landscape
—
2023 —
WHEF3B89B8BDF
Researchers have uncovered five ancient stone artefacts at a submerged freshwater spring site (WH1) within the Murujuga Cultural Landscape, part of Western Australia's Dampier Archipelago. This discovery, situated 14 meters below the intertidal zone in Flying Foam Passage, suggests human occupation during the Late Pleistocene or Early Holocene, predating current sea levels. The study highlights the archaeological significance of submerged springs and demonstrates how advanced survey techniques—such as those used here—can reveal cultural landscapes in tropical geomorphological environments like mangrove coasts or reef systems. With thousands of potential drowned sites likely existing on tropical continental shelves down to 130 meters below sea level, this work underscores the untapped potential for underwater archaeology and its broader implications for understanding past human adaptations.
Stonehenge, Avebury and Associated Sites
—
2023 —
WHEB06D06314E
Stonehenge, one of the world's most iconic monuments, has seen its origins and evolution redefined through modern research. Spanning the transition from the Stone Age to the Bronze Age, it began as a burial ground but evolved into a sacred gathering place, undergoing multiple remodels with changing technologies and customs. Recent excavations and cutting-edge analysis have uncovered new insights into its construction, use, and cultural significance. This study synthesizes two decades of research, revealing Stonehenge's complex history—from its initial purpose to its role in modern consciousness, including political protests and conspiracy theories.
Tomioka Silk Mill and Related Sites
—
2023 —
WHED6E5160EA4
This edited volume challenges the traditional narrative of Asian modernization as solely Western-driven, highlighting instead the active role of East Asian actors in customizing and sharing technology and business practices from 1850 to 1920. It emphasizes Japan's central position in this intraregional exchange, with a focus on hybridization processes where local initiatives adapted and disseminated Western technologies. The book illustrates how symbols of modernity, such as the Tomioka Silk Mill, were prioritized over functional efficiency during the Meiji period, while also exploring the dynamic agency of individuals like Shibusawa Eiichi and Zhan Jian in shaping technological transfer. It contributes to a growing body of literature that moves beyond passive recipient models, showcasing Asia's proactive engagement with modernization.
Caves and Ice Age Art in the Swabian Jura
—
2023 —
WHE1EE01DA69E
A performance-based film, STRATA, contributes new knowledge about Ice Age human history by integrating interdisciplinary research and artistic practice. The project, led by artist duo Verena Stenke and Andrea Pagnes (VestAndPage), explores deep time and layers of memory through site-specific performances in the Swabian Jura caves, Germany, where humans sheltered 40,000 years ago. By treating the human body as interconnected with its geological environment, STRATA employs ecological thinking and phenomenology to develop a corporeal epistemology that fosters a holistic perspective on human history. The research traces continuities between artistic practices—such as performance, filmmaking, sound, and light design—and academic methodologies in film studies, highlighting the evolution of interdisciplinary collaboration and heuristic processes.
Sangiran Early Man Site
—
2023 —
WHE121AC291A0
Small and medium-sized tourism enterprises (UMKMs) at the Sangiran Early Man Site faced significant revenue declines post-COVID-19. To counteract this, they adopted digital strategies, leveraging social media to expand online sales and diversifying income streams through third-party delivery services. This adaptive approach helps sustain their businesses amid reduced on-site visitor numbers. The study, conducted through qualitative fieldwork including interviews and observations, highlights the resilience of UMKMs in preserving cultural tourism revenue during the 'new normal.'
Žatec and the Landscape of Saaz Hops
—
2023 —
WHE44CD6BACC5
A strategic marketing plan for the non-profit Hop and Beer Temple in Žatec, Czech Republicdemonstrates how non-profit organizations can effectively leverage marketing tools to enhance tourism services without prioritizing profit. The study, a case analysis using observation, interviews, and desk research, established a vision, mission, strategic goals, and action plans for 2022, evaluating their success. It highlights the necessity of integrating external and internal environmental factors into strategic planning, even for non-profits engaged in secondary economic activities like supplementary tourism services.
Costiera Amalfitana
—
2023 —
WHE6F773D96F9
Integrated conservation strategies for the UNESCO-listed Amalfi Coast, a cultural landscape at risk due to rapid transformations since the mid-20th century, are proposed. The study highlights the need to balance heritage protection with sustainable tourism, addressing both natural and anthropogenic threats. By analyzing historical changes and contemporary challenges, it offers actionable frameworks for preserving this globally significant site while ensuring its accessibility and cultural relevance. This approach builds on the 1972 UNESCO World Heritage Convention, expanding protections to include dynamic landscapes facing ecological and developmental pressures.
Old City of Sana'a
—
2023 —
WHEF253A2506A
The Sana'a basin, home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Old City of Sana'a, exhibits a complex stratigraphic sequence spanning from Precambrian to Recent periods, with significant tectonic activity shaping its structural evolution. Key findings reveal that the basin formed during the Jurassic under inherited N-S structural control and experienced multiple phases of uplift and subsidence, particularly during the Jurassic, Cretaceous, Tertiary, and Quaternary periods. Field studies highlight a compression stage in the Paleocene forming an anticline, followed by extensional faulting creating half grabens like Wadi Dhahr and Haddah. The Tertiary period saw intense volcanic activity, particularly in the southern basin, contributing to the formation of the Yemen Plateau and reactivating major tectonic trends with volcanic dykes filling fractures. Quaternary volcanic activity introduced additional plugs and cones into older rock units. This research integrates sedimentary and structural analysis to elucidate the dynamic geological history of the Sana'a basin.
Church and Dominican Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie with “The Last Supper” by Leonardo da Vinci
—
2023 —
WHEB12FEBC6FF
A novel approach to reinforcing masonry arches using FRCM (Fiber-Reinforced Cementitious Matrix) composites, specifically with PBO (Polyparafenilenbenzobisoxazole) tapes, demonstrates significant potential for enhancing the seismic response of historical structures. This method compensates for the tensile strength limitations of traditional masonry by applying a grid of PBO tapes on the intrados of arches, effectively counteracting plastic hinge formation and improving structural stability. The study focuses on the Church and Dominican Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie where ongoing restoration efforts include the reinforcement of vulnerable south arcades situated on a slope. By developing a simplified modeling strategy for FRCM-reinforced curved masonry structures, this research provides technicians with a practical tool to accurately describe the mechanical behavior of such systems, offering a promising solution for preserving cultural heritage while ensuring structural integrity.
Hegra Archaeological Site (al-Hijr / Madā ͐ in Ṣāliḥ)
—
2023 —
WHE4FD6725FF5
Evidence from strontium isotope analysis reveals that cotton was cultivated locally in Arabia as early as the late 1st century BCE, predating Islamic influence. This discovery highlights the region's advanced agrotechnical capabilities during Antiquity and underscores the dynamic nature of trans-Arabian trade networks. The study demonstrates that pre-cleaned archaeological cotton provides a reliable method for tracing plant and textile provenance, distinguishing between locally grown and imported fibers at key sites like Hegra and Dadan in al-ʿUlā. By analyzing strontium isotopes from these remains, researchers not only confirm Pre-Islamic cotton cultivation but also shed light on the socio-economic significance of this non-native crop in oasis agrosystems.
Cathedral, Alcázar and Archivo de Indias in Seville
—
2023 —
WHE2FF70A0F85
La Giralda, the iconic bell tower of Seville Cathedral, has demonstrated remarkable structural resilience over four centuries, withstanding significant external forces including earthquakes. A comprehensive analysis reveals its geometric and foundational design as key factors in its longevity. The study examines La Giralda's gravitational load capacity, resistance to wind, and seismic stability using modern engineering techniques. This research provides valuable insights into the monument's enduring structural integrity, offering a deeper understanding of its architectural and engineering achievements.
The Grand Canal
—
2023 —
WHE61FA9C1AF1
Research reveals that the spatial distribution of water engineering facilities along the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal during the Ming and Qing dynasties was significantly influenced by natural factors, particularly the main channel slope and slope direction. These factors exhibited a negative correlation with facility placement, while tributary slope and slope direction had indirect effects mediated by watershed area. The study used structural equation modeling to analyze these relationships, providing critical data for heritage protection and cultural corridor development along the canal.
