Selimiye Mosque and its Social Complex
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A structural analysis of the narthex in Mimar Sinan’s Edirne Selimiye Mosque reveals robust seismic resilience, challenging conventional assumptions about Ottoman architectural engineering. Using finite element modeling (ANSYS Workbench), researchers evaluated three parallel models—including the existing structure—to assess spatial, geometric, and material parameters under dynamic earthquake loads. Findings demonstrate innovative static and dynamic strategies that integrate aesthetic harmony with functional stability, offering insights applicable to preserving similar UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This study bridges architectural history and engineering, providing a framework for assessing structural integrity in historic Ottoman mosques.
Aldabra Atoll
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Aldabra Atoll's western seaward reefs exhibit a resilient, post-disturbance state dominated by stress-tolerant massive corals, with spatial organization shifting deterministically from shallow aggregated frameworks to deeper fragmented nucleated patches. This study, using 300 high-resolution video-still quadrats across two depth contours (8 m and 15 m), revealed that environmental filtering, rather than stochastic neutral drift, drives post-bleaching recovery. Multivariate dispersion analysis highlighted increased patchiness with depth, while statistical niche modeling confirmed substrate stability as a physical bottleneck, with Isopora spp. thriving on rock pavement and Goniopora spp. dominating mobile rubble. These findings underscore the role of niche-driven processes in shaping benthic community structure following climate-induced disturbances.
Tehuacán-Cuicatlán Valley: originary habitat of Mesoamerica
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Research on the genus <em>Melampodium</em> (Asteraceae) reveals Mexico as a primary center for its diversification and endemism, with distinct phyloregions characterized by phylogenetic clustering. The study identified four types of phylogenetic endemism—neo-, palaeo-, mixed-, and super-endemism—with palaeo-endemisms linked to higher elevations and greater environmental stability since the Pliocene. Phylogenetic overdispersion was notably found in the Tehuacán–Cuicatlán Valley suggesting unique evolutionary dynamics. The research used spatial phylogenetics, including categorical analysis of endemism, Wilcoxon tests for environmental variables, and phylogenetic Sorensen dissimilarity to map phyloregions. Chromosomal evidence supported some findings, reinforcing Mexico's significance in the genus' evolutionary history.
Historic Centre of Prague
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Contemporary spatial planning systems in historic European capital cities, including Prague, Edinburgh, and Vienna—all UNESCO World Heritage Sites—serve as models for sustainable urban development. This study highlights how these cities leverage heritage status, urban typology, and citizen participation to create holistic, future-oriented planning frameworks. By employing the 'arena' metaphor, it argues that their approaches can guide other cities in balancing preservation with progress. The research compares spatial planning instruments across the three capitals, offering insights into effective governance for historic urban centers.
Fujian Tulou
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A synergistic methodology combining spatial translation and material coupling offers a promising path for the sustainable regeneration of vernacular architecture, as demonstrated by its application to Linpan structures. This approach decodes the 'house–forest–field–water' spatial prototype into contemporary formal strategies while integrating locally sourced ecological materials, significantly reducing embodied carbon emissions and reinforcing regional identity. Validated through the Daoming Zhuli project in Chengdu, the methodology's adaptability was further tested across diverse climatic and cultural contexts, including Fujian Tulou and Huizhou ancient villages. The study provides a design-oriented framework that bridges spatial typology with material selection, offering actionable insights for sustainable architectural renewal and contemporary adaptation of vernacular forms.
Namib Sand Sea
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Research on the Namib Sand Sea reveals that its linear dunes exhibit spatial variations in height, spacing, and sediment grain size, indicating a dominant pattern of sand movement from southern and western coastal regions toward central and northern areas. This finding aligns with wind data and supports existing theories about sand sea formation. The study analyzed dune morphology and sediment characteristics to deduce these patterns, providing insights into the dynamic processes shaping this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Cultural Landscape of Honghe Hani Rice Terraces
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A novel spatial-semantic interaction-guided network (SSIGNet) achieves unprecedented accuracy in mapping the UNESCO-listed Honghe Hani Rice Terraces, with an intersection over union (IoU) score of 87.44%. This breakthrough addresses longstanding challenges posed by fragmented terrace morphology and complex boundaries, which have hindered precise remote sensing analysis. The SSIGNet integrates a spatial-semantic interaction fusion module (SSIFM) and a boundary guidance module (BGM), enabling high-resolution delineation of terraces across varying scales and morphological features. Outperforming nine other methods on the Yuanyang Terraces dataset, this approach offers critical technical support for heritage protection, ecological management, and agricultural sustainability in one of China's most iconic cultural landscapes.
Al-Ahsa Oasis, an Evolving Cultural Landscape
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A study reveals pronounced seasonal variability in evapotranspiration (ET) within the Al-Hofuf region of Al-Ahsa Oasis, Saudi Arabia, with peak ET occurring during summer months at 7.2–7.5 mm/day and minima in winter at 2.0–2.6 mm/day. This finding underscores the close link between vegetation activity and atmospheric demand, providing critical insights for sustainable water management in arid environments. Researchers utilized a cloud-based remote sensing approach, combining Landsat 9 Level-2 imagery with ERA5-Land meteorological data to quantify spatial and temporal ET variations over a 25 km buffer. Vegetation dynamics were characterized using the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) to derive crop coefficients within a Kc–ET0 framework. The study's model performance was validated against MODIS MOD16A2, demonstrating strong statistical agreement (R² = 0.82, NSE = 0.71, PBIAS = +8.3%). This approach offers a reliable, cost-effective method for ET monitoring in data-scarce, groundwater-dependent regions, supporting precision irrigation and long-term water sustainability planning in alignment with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 and National Water Strategy.
Historic Centre of Shakhrisyabz
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Spatially targeted groundwater recharge can significantly improve water management efficiency and quality in the Kitab–Shahrisabz aquifer, reducing river return flow by up to 50% and evaporation losses. The study identifies a 2.3-fold variation in infiltration-supply coefficients across tributaries, enabling more effective recharge placement. Four conjunctive management scenarios demonstrate that optimizing recharge placement, abstraction, and water-quality constraints can enhance storage-return efficiency to approximately 0.79 while maintaining water quality, particularly below a critical flow threshold of 2.0 m³ s⁻¹ in the Yakkabagdarya. This research provides actionable insights for sustainable groundwater management in piedmont aquifers.
Nyungwe National Park
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A comprehensive spatio-temporal assessment of Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda, reveals that 98% of its vegetation experienced statistically significant changes between 2013 and 2022. Despite moderate rainfall variability, the park's montane forest demonstrated remarkable resilience, with no significant correlation between climate factors and vegetation health. The study identified localized degradation hotspots near northern and southeastern boundaries, driven primarily by anthropogenic pressures rather than climatic influences. These findings underscore the need for targeted conservation strategies, including enhanced boundary protection, active restoration of degraded areas, and strengthened buffer zone policies to mitigate edge effects.
Kaziranga National Park
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Kaziranga National Park experiences dynamic and frequent floods along the Brahmaputra River, leading to significant ecological changes. A study using 228 Sentinel-1 SAR and 8 Sentinel-2 optical images (2015–2022) revealed that flood frequency (FF) is highest near the Brahmaputra channel, permanent waterbodies, and wetlands, with extreme years (2017, 2020, 2022) showing mean FF over 40%. Analysis identified 8.24% of the park with decreasing FF due to sediment deposition and 10.04% with increasing FF linked to erosion and channel encroachment. Flood ridges indicated average channel migration of ∼157 m upstream and ∼311 m inward, with localized shifts exceeding ∼1 km. DBSCAN clustering highlighted 68 zones of hydro-geomorphic instability, including 43 hotspots and 25 cold spots. Vegetation analysis showed NDVI decline in hotspots due to inundation but greening in cold spots from sediment deposition and grassland regeneration. This integrated SAR–optical approach provides critical insights for monitoring riverine ecosystems and strengthening conservation strategies.
Sinharaja Forest Reserve
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A deep-learning framework using Convolutional Long Short-Term Memory (ConvLSTM) has successfully forecasted temperature dynamics in the Sinharaja Rainforest, a critical UNESCO World Heritage Site and biodiversity hotspot. The model achieved high predictive accuracy with a root mean square error (RMSE) of 1.55°C, capturing complex, nonlinear spatiotemporal patterns from two decades of satellite-derived Land Surface Temperature (LST) data (2000–2021). While the nonparametric Mann-Kendall test did not indicate a statistically significant trend, time series decomposition revealed a subtle but persistent long-term warming signal. This study provides essential insights for climate adaptation and conservation policy decisions in tropical ecosystems, where accurate temperature prediction is challenging due to sparse ground observations and strong spatial heterogeneity.
Al-Ahsa Oasis, an Evolving Cultural Landscape
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A 35-year study of Al-Ahsa Oasis reveals significant environmental shifts driven by urban expansion and climate change. Using multi-temporal Landsat data (1990–2025) and machine learning, researchers found that while palm tree coverage increased by 16.23%—suggesting resilience in vegetation—the oasis experienced a 67.19% rise in urban development, leading to higher land surface temperatures (LST) and reduced soil exposure. The study highlights how urban growth impacts critical environmental indicators like the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), which fluctuated between −0.19 and 0.75, and LST, which rose from 28.7–48.34°C in 1990 to 34.7–54.6°C by 2025. These findings underscore the need for sustainable urban planning to balance development with agricultural preservation and ecosystem resilience.
Mount Taishan
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Historic buildings on Mount Tai, China's first UNESCO World Heritage Mixed Property site, exhibit pronounced spatiotemporal distribution patterns shaped by natural and social factors. Research analyzing 451 protected structures reveals an I-shaped temporal fluctuation, with ancient architecture and sites forming the core (60% of total), influenced by preservation conditions, stability, and heritage designation preferences. Spatially, a clustering pattern emerges, shifting from southwest to northeast, transitioning from river basin to mountain belt concentration over 40 kilometers. These patterns stem from hydrological and topographical constraints in early stages, while later periods show stronger associations with fengshan ritual culture, religious activities, economic development, and governance. The study proposes a strategic spatial framework—one cultural pilgrimage ring and four thematic corridors—to guide sustainable tourism planning and heritage conservation, offering actionable insights for Mount Tai's cultural dissemination.
Ancient Maya City and Protected Tropical Forests of Calakmul, Campeche
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The Calakmul Biosphere Reserve (CBR) serves as a critical refuge for 28 species of medium and large-sized mammals, with higher richness and abundance observed within its boundaries compared to surrounding areas. A six-year study (2016–2022) revealed distinct spatial patterns in mammal communities, influenced by habitat use and environmental conditions. Temporal fluctuations in relative abundance suggest that water availability and extreme climatic events significantly impact these assemblages. While the CBR acts as a stronghold for biodiversity, adjacent community-managed territories also play a vital role in supporting species persistence, particularly those threatened by land-use change and hunting pressure. The presence of key species like jaguar (<em>Panthera onca</em>), Baird's tapir (<em>Tapirus bairdii</em>), and white-lipped peccary (<em>Tayassu pecari</em>) underscores the reserve’s strategic importance for conserving large terrestrial mammals in Mexico.
Coffee Cultural Landscape of Colombia
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Urban expansion in Colombia's UNESCO-listed Coffee Cultural Landscape (CCLC) has led to divergent ecological outcomes between core and buffer zones. A study analyzing data from 2014, 2019, and 2024 found that while the core zone experienced an increase in ecological quality—measured by the Remote Sensing Ecological Index (RSEI)—the buffer zone saw a significant decline. This suggests that buffer zones may be more vulnerable to urban pressures despite their protective designation. The research used advanced spatial analysis, including Random Forest for land use mapping and Moran’s I for spatial organization assessment, alongside a novel framework decomposing urban pressure into built-up areas, impervious surfaces, and Production, Living, and Ecological Space (PLES). These findings highlight the need for targeted monitoring and adaptive management in cultural landscapes facing rapid urbanization.
Kizhi Pogost
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A rising threat to wooden heritage sites, including Kizhi Pogost, is evident from a study analyzing spatiotemporal trends in wood decay risk across European Russia (1961–2020). Using the Scheffer Climate Index (SCI), which integrates temperature and precipitation data, researchers found significant upward SCI trends—up to 0.6 per year—in northern regions, driven primarily by warming temperatures. While high-risk zones remained stable (~13%), low-risk areas shrank by 9%, transitioning to moderate risk, particularly after the 2000s. The study highlights a shift in climatic threats, with temperature contributions to decay risk increasing by 5–20% while precipitation impacts declined—except in northern regions. These findings underscore the urgent need for adaptive conservation strategies to protect vulnerable heritage structures.
Tikal National Park
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Only 9.48% of critical habitats for carnivoran species richness and endemicity in the Yucatán Peninsula are currently protected, despite these areas being vital for conservation. The study identified that southern Quintana Roo, southeastern Campeche, the Tabasco-Chiapas border, and northern Belize-Guatemala exhibit peak species richness, while Cozumel Island and south-central Tabasco show high endemicity. Using ecological niche modeling and diversity range analysis, researchers mapped these patterns to assess representation within existing protected areas (PAs). Key PAs partially covering priority zones include Sierra del Lacandón, Laguna del Tigre, Tikal, Yaxhá-Nakum-Naranjo National Parks in Guatemala; Rio Bravo Conservation Area in Belize; and Calakmul Biosphere Reserve in Mexico. The findings emphasize the urgent need to expand PA coverage to safeguard the region's unique carnivoran assemblages and their ecosystem functions.
Old City of Jerusalem and its Walls
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Safra Square in Jerusalem, designed around the historic British Town Hall and inaugurated in 1993, serves as a representational space that symbolizes Israeli dominance over a 'unified' Jerusalem post-1967 occupation. The square's design and spatial practices—marked by memorials, artifacts, and performative elements—reflect a narrative of political legitimacy through an intertwined mechanism of petrification (immobilizing history) and mundanization (normalizing control). Strategically located near the Green Line and Old City walls, Safra Square's visual and narrative dynamics reinforce Israeli administrative and military authority. The study analyzes these mechanisms to uncover how spatial design constructs dominance while legitimizing political control.
Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes
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High-altitude summer rainfall on Jeju Island, South Korea, serves as the dominant source of groundwater recharge, with rapid flow pathways transporting depleted isotopic signatures from northern slopes to coastal areas. This finding emerges from a stable isotope analysis of oxygen (δ¹⁸O) and hydrogen (δ²H) in monthly precipitation and groundwater, revealing distinct seasonal variability linked to monsoon patterns. Northern-slope precipitation exhibited lower δ¹⁸O values and d-excess, mirroring the isotopic signatures found in groundwater, which suggests preferential flow dynamics. The study underscores the critical role of long-term isotope monitoring in understanding and managing groundwater resources on volcanic islands with unique hydrogeological characteristics.
Archaeological Site of Nalanda Mahavihara at Nalanda, Bihar
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Nava Nalanda Mahavihara University, Bihar, has been designated as a Manuscripts Cluster Centre by the Gyan Bharatam Mission to preserve and digitize manuscripts, safeguarding India's cultural heritage. This initiative builds on earlier efforts under the National Mission for Manuscripts (NNM), ensuring long-term accessibility and conservation of rare collections. The study evaluates the status and online accessibility of these digital preservation efforts using both quantitative and qualitative methods, including questionnaires and institutional data. By leveraging government-backed missions, Nava Nalanda Mahavihara serves as a model for national manuscript digitization, with memorandums of understanding signed with approximately 20 institutions nationwide.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
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A recent survey of landbirds and their habitats in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park (HAVO) reveals mixed population trends for both native and non-native species. While some native birds, such as the ʻApapane and Hawaiʻi ʻAmakihi, showed significant increases in certain tracts, others like the federally threatened ʻIʻiwi faced severe declines or local extinctions, particularly in areas where it was previously abundant. Non-native species exhibited varied patterns, with the Warbling White-eye declining while the Japanese Bush Warbler and Northern Cardinal expanded their presence. Conducted using point-transect distance sampling across seven tracts over two years (2020–2021), this study highlights the ongoing challenges for native landbirds due to habitat degradation, invasive species, predators, disease, and wildfire.
Historic Centre of Oaxaca and Archaeological Site of Monte Albán
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Stelae 12 and 13 at Monte Albán, dating to approximately 500 BCE, provide some of the earliest public evidence of Zapotec hieroglyphic writing, used for political commemoration and state authority. These two-meter-high carved stones, found near Building L and the Danzantes gallery, record the accession of a ruler named '8 Water' in the year '4 Lightning,' marking his status as a first-born son and formal installation in office. The inscriptions feature linguistic characteristics unique to Zapotec, such as numerical coefficients after day names and rebus writing, linking calendrical writing with dynastic legitimacy and the broader ideological landscape of warfare and political domination. This research synthesis reviews their archaeological context, modern cataloguing (D-139 and D-140), contributions from key scholars, and current conservation efforts in Area Two of the Monte Albán Site Museum.
Selous Game Reserve
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A critical analysis of trophy hunting tourism in the Selous Game Reserve, Tanzania, reveals that advertising by six major agencies perpetuates colonial imaginaries. These narratives depict Africa as uninhabited wilderness, reinforcing racialized, gendered, and class-based hierarchies while erasing local environmental history and community realities. The study finds that such representations sustain colonial power dynamics, framing African landscapes as wild nature in need of Western intervention and evoking fantasies of a colonial lifestyle among tourists. This research underscores the urgent need to deconstruct these narratives in wildlife tourism to foster more equitable, post/decolonial perspectives.
Sun Temple, Konârak
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Indian temple sculptures, particularly those from the Khajuraho, Brihadeshwara, and Konark Sun Temple, serve as visual scriptures that encapsulate the essence of yoga, blending philosophical concepts, cosmic principles, and tantric traditions. These intricate depictions not only preserve yogic practices but also illustrate their path to spiritual enlightenment, reflecting the profound impact of yoga on human consciousness and cultural aesthetics. Regional variations in these sculptures highlight the diversity and syncretism of Indian art, with distinct styles emerging from Northern, Southern, and Eastern temples. The study emphasizes the role of temples as educational hubs and centers of yogic practice, showcasing the ingenuity of Indian artists in transforming metaphysical concepts into tangible forms. This creative use of yoga postures continues to inspire globally, underscoring their timeless relevance and cultural significance.
Palaces and Parks of Potsdam and Berlin
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Restoration of stone monuments in Germany faces significant challenges due to the closure of original quarries, leaving no suitable substitute materials. This study examines six iconic structures—Cologne Cathedral, Freiburg Münster, the Stone Bridge in Regensburg, Kaiser-Wilhelm-Monument at Porta Westphalica, Old National Gallery in Berlin, and the Picture Gallery of Sanssouci Palace in Potsdam—to analyze how replacement stones were selected under varying economic and political conditions. Two cases involved temporarily reactivating old quarries, while others relied on alternative materials. Notably, one restoration was reversed when the original stone became available again. The research highlights the decision-making processes, trade-offs, and lessons learned from these approaches, offering insights into sustainable heritage conservation strategies.
Wadden Sea
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Strong westerly winds significantly reduce foraging opportunities for Red Knots (Calidris canutus islandica) in the Wadden Sea, a critical UNESCO World Heritage Site. The study found that such storms decrease exposed mudflat availability by up to 50% and benthic prey biomass by 44%, forcing birds to roost closer to foraging grounds under adverse conditions. However, tailwinds or elevated water levels prompt longer-distance flights to roosts. Using the WATLAS reverse-GPS system, researchers analyzed wind-driven changes in habitat availability and movement patterns, revealing how climate-induced extreme weather disrupts energy balances for migratory shorebirds. These findings underscore growing challenges for Red Knots due to increased storm frequency, with broader implications for intertidal ecosystems globally.
Historic City of Ayutthaya
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A critical infrastructure gap in public transport systems connecting to Ayutthaya Historic City, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has been identified. The study reveals that 90% of surveyed transport nodes fail to meet basic accessibility criteria under Universal Design (UD) standards, with only the Ayutthaya Railway Station meeting these requirements. This research highlights the urgent need for strategic policy development to balance heritage preservation and modern tourism demands. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the study combined quantitative data from 348 stakeholders—including local residents, tourists, and vulnerable groups—with qualitative assessments of physical infrastructure. The findings underscore the importance of integrating accessibility standards into future transport planning to ensure inclusive access while safeguarding historical integrity.
Vatnajökull National Park - Dynamic Nature of Fire and Ice
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Researchers have identified and characterized a hyperthermostable single-stranded DNA-binding protein (SSB-M5) from a hot spring metagenome in Vatnajökull National Park, Iceland. This small protein, derived from hyperthermophilic Fervidobacterium species, demonstrates remarkable stability and high affinity for single-stranded DNA, even at temperatures up to 100°C. Structural analysis revealed that SSB-M5 forms a tetrameric functional unit, while biochemical assays confirmed its ability to substitute for Escherichia coli SSB in mutant strains. Notably, SSB-M5 exhibits cooperative binding with an EC50 of 141 pM and a Hill coefficient of 2, indicating strong and specific interactions with DNA. Its inclusion in PCR reactions significantly enhances amplification by eliminating non-specific products, highlighting its potential applications in molecular biology and biotechnology.
iSimangaliso Wetland Park – Maputo National Park
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A coastal dune forest in Maputo National Park, Mozambique, exhibits remarkable species adaptability to high environmental heterogeneity, marked by low water availability and few nutrients. The study identified 89 tree species, with <em>Drypetes natalensis</em>, <em>Diospyros inhacaensis</em>, and <em>Vepris lanceolata</em> being the most abundant. Contrary to expectations, no significant relationship was found between tree community structure and environmental variables, suggesting that these species thrive in diverse and challenging conditions. This insight underscores the resilience of coastal dune forests and their potential for conservation strategies on the east and southeast coasts of Africa. The research employed 20 plots across the forest, sampling 2,524 individuals with a diameter at breast height (DBH) greater than 2.5 cm to assess species composition and environmental interactions.
Residences of the Royal House of Savoy
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A digital platform, 'Collezioni in Ordine,' has been developed to enhance visitor engagement at the Stupinigi Hunting Lodge, a UNESCO-listed Savoy Residence and Italy's first Furniture Museum. This tool integrates historical inventories, restoration data, and augmented reality (AR) to provide immersive experiences that distinguish between the lodge's courtly history and its museum function. By leveraging QR codes and AR totems, visitors can explore the evolution of rooms across different periods, access multilingual conservation insights, and engage with interactive narratives about the residence's protagonists. The platform also connects with digital archives from the 'La Venaria Reale' Conservation and Restoration Centre, ensuring universal accessibility to scientific data through easy-to-read translations. This approach resolves longstanding challenges in cataloging and public engagement while setting a precedent for integrating advanced digital tools in heritage conservation.
Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor
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A groundbreaking analysis of Figurine No. 28 from Pit K9901 at the Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor reveals that contortion techniques in Qin-Han dynasties were likely influenced by Western acrobatic traditions, challenging long-held assumptions about their origins. This study provides the first archaeological evidence linking early Chinese contortion to foreign cultural exchanges, tracing its evolution through regional adaptations. Researchers examined the figurine's physical stance and compared it with known Western contortion practices, offering new insights into ancient East-West interactions, burial beliefs, and the development of acrobatics in Chinese society. The findings bridge a critical gap in archaeological research on this understudied but culturally significant practice.
Kulangsu, a Historic International Settlement
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A comprehensive study on emergency evacuation behavior in heritage tourism destinations, using Kulangsu's Gulangyu Island as a case study, reveals that enhancing building resilience and strategic signage can significantly improve evacuation efficiency by up to 79.6%. The research, combining seismic vulnerability assessments, field experiments, and agent-based simulations, found that panic responses, hesitation, and group behavior substantially impact evacuation outcomes. Under a seismic intensity VII scenario, most buildings remained intact or slightly damaged, but human factors like sustained tachycardia (indicative of panic) and group evacuation were prevalent. Simulations demonstrated that stronger heritage conservation measures and optimized signage could drastically reduce the number of remaining evacuees, providing critical insights for emergency management in complex historic districts.
Temple of Heaven: an Imperial Sacrificial Altar in Beijing
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A study of the marble surfaces at Beijing's Temple of Heaven reveals that biological weathering varies significantly by surface orientation, with south-facing surfaces experiencing the most intense degradation. Dominated by aerophytic cyanobacteria and mosses, these communities thrive in calcareous environments, exhibiting distinct compositions based on exposure to sunlight, humidity, and temperature. The research identifies 'Cloud Chi Heads' weathering patterns, linked to micro-topographical features that influence water retention and microbial colonization. Cyanobacteria secrete organic acids, dissolving inorganic salts and progressively eroding the marble. Preventing their growth is critical to mitigating weathering in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Town of Luang Prabang
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Architectural changes in residential buildings within Luang Prabang's Old Town Conservation Zone (UA) follow distinct phases shaped by economic growth, tourism expansion, and regulatory measures. Phase I (1995–2005) marked the initial stage of conservation with noticeable exterior and interior modifications. Phase II (2005–2015), driven by economic incentives, saw functional transformations, complex interior changes, and the use of substitute materials. Phase III (2015–present) reflects stricter management, integration of old and new buildings, and challenges from aging structures and technological systems. The study, based on five residential houses in Pa Kham Village, analyzed empirical data to interpret architectural characteristics across these periods.
Monastery of Batalha
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A hybrid approach combining parametric modelling with SubD, NURBS, and mesh-based techniques emerges as the optimal strategy for documenting complex Gothic architecture, such as the Founder’s Chapel at the Monastery of Batalha. This study demonstrates that while parametric modelling excels in adaptability and integration with surrounding elements, SubD offers a novel, highly efficient method for capturing intricate vaulted geometries with high accuracy. The research, leveraging terrestrial laser scanning point cloud data, evaluated geometric accuracy, time efficiency, and model flexibility across four techniques, revealing that project-specific requirements should guide the selection of modelling approaches rather than technical preferences alone. This integrated strategy enhances documentation fidelity while emphasizing the need for improved interoperability between HBIM methods.
W-Arly-Pendjari Complex
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A critical leopard population in West Africa, one of the last strongholds for the Endangered species, is showing signs of recovery despite persistent security threats. Camera-trap surveys conducted biennially from 2017 to 2023 in Pendjari National Park within the W-Arly-Pendjari (WAP) Complex revealed a rise in leopard density from 0.62 to 2.08 individuals per 100 km², with moderate survival rates and sufficient recruitment to sustain population growth. While nocturnal activity dominates, diurnal behavior has increased over time, suggesting potential adaptation or behavioral shifts. The study attributes this recovery to strengthened park protection measures since 2017, though it highlights alarming trends such as a lack of cub detection and rising illegal incursions, particularly poaching, which pose significant risks. Safeguarding this population requires urgent, integrated strategies including cross-border collaboration, enhanced protection of neighboring parks, community engagement, and equitable resource governance to mitigate escalating security challenges.
Lake Malawi National Park
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Ethnic diversity within Lake Malawi National Park's enclave villages plays a pivotal role in fostering resilient and inclusive sustainability pathways. This study reveals that such diversity facilitates the exchange of fishing techniques, farming skills, ecological knowledge, and market linkages, enabling households to develop plural and seasonally adaptive livelihood portfolios. While these practices contribute to diversified resource use—combining fishing, agriculture, tourism, petty trade, and forest use—they also exert significant pressure on local fish stocks, forests, and agricultural land. The research highlights the potential for more inclusive co-management through emerging community-based institutions and collaborative initiatives, which are increasingly facilitating coordination, rule-making, and shared stewardship. By integrating collaboration theory, social-ecological systems frameworks, and scholarship on social differentiation, this study offers practical and conceptual insights for balancing resource-dependent livelihoods with conservation in socially diverse human–nature landscapes.
Historic Centre of Bukhara
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A comparative analysis of sustainability communication at two fortified palace complexes reveals significant gaps between potential and actual interpretive content. The study, using an original Sustainability Technical Communication (STC) framework with 36 variables across four dimensions—interpretation technical conditions, environmental, socio-cultural, and economic sustainability—found that only about half of the sustainability information (53.9% at Ark Palace in Bukhara, Uzbekistan, and 60.9% at Bratislava Castle, Slovakia) was actively communicated to visitors despite higher overall scores (75.9% and 76.7%, respectively). Notably, waste management, energy saving, and carbon footprint reduction were entirely absent from interpretive means at both sites. The research highlights the need for sustainability interpretation plans aligned with international guidelines, operational integration of environmental content, and a shift toward participatory and awareness-raising approaches over purely informational ones.
Durmitor National Park
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Durmitor National Park demonstrates a high level of sustainability in its management, particularly when compared to other European and regional protected areas. The study identifies key indicators that contribute to its robust sustainability performance, including effective governance structures, ecological integrity, and visitor management strategies. Researchers employed a comparative analysis framework, evaluating Durmitor against established benchmarks for UNESCO World Heritage Sites and other national parks in Europe. This approach revealed strengths in biodiversity conservation and adaptive tourism practices, positioning Durmitor as a model for sustainable park management in the region.
Manas Wildlife Sanctuary
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A five-year evaluation of Bhutan's Jersey calf-sharing scheme in the Royal Manas National Park revealed significant conservation and livelihood benefits. The initiative, which distributed seed cows to 56 households with the condition to share female offspring, led to a 43.6% increase in Jersey cows, reduced forest grazing, lower livestock losses to carnivores, and improved dairy income. This approach also fostered equitable benefit sharing, strengthened community engagement, and promoted positive conservation attitudes. The study highlights the potential of such schemes as sustainable tools for balancing livelihood needs with wildlife conservation, particularly in multiple-use zones where human-wildlife interactions pose challenges.
Nice, Winter Resort Town of the Riviera
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Fisheries worldwide face existential threats from overexploitation, habitat degradation, marine pollution, and climate change, as underscored during the 2025 UN Ocean Conference in Nice. This study highlights that achieving sustainability requires more than ecological solutions alone—it demands interdisciplinary collaboration and context-specific strategies. By synthesizing contemporary fisheries research, it identifies critical gaps and emphasizes the need for inclusive approaches to address the complex challenges threatening aquatic ecosystems globally.
San Antonio Missions
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A sustainable rural tourism model at Mission Espada, Texas, aims to diversify urban-centric tourism and revitalize the local agrarian economy. The proposal focuses on a 612-hectare site accessible via a scenic, low-traffic road from Mission Espada, offering tourists an immersive experience of Texas's rural life, including agriculture, dairy, livestock, and equestrian activities. This approach seeks to reverse rural-to-urban migration by creating employment opportunities and supporting small businesses while preserving cultural heritage. The development leverages the site's proximity to a UNESCO World Heritage Site, ensuring accessibility and sustainability.
Early Christian Monuments of Ravenna
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2026 —
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Balancing heritage conservation with sustainable tourism development is critical for Mediterranean World Heritage Sites (WHS), yet current management models often fall short. A comparative study of the Episcopal Complex of the Euphrasian Basilica in Poreč, Croatia, and Ravenna’s Early Christian Monuments reveals key strengths and weaknesses in governance structures, stakeholder engagement, and conservation strategies. Innovative practices identified—such as integrating local community input through surveys—offer actionable lessons for improving WHS management across the region. By analyzing qualitative data from management plans and expert interviews, this research highlights the need to reassess traditional approaches to ensure long-term sustainability without compromising cultural integrity.
Hwaseong Fortress
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2026 —
WHE0D077F65BF
Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, reflecting King Jeongjo's innovative urban planning, presents challenges in understanding its integration into his broader 'New Town Idea' as a cultural and visual concept. To address this, the study proposes a methodological approach combining Siegfried Kracauer’s surface media theory and Michel de Certeau’s inductive spatial theory. These theories offer new perspectives: Kracauer’s framework uncovers pre-modern ideological myths by analyzing surfaces, while Certeau’s everyday spatial experiences challenge mainstream notions of place and power. By ensuring hermeneutic reversibility between narrative and representation through these lenses, the study enriches the practical interpretation of Suwon Hwaseong and its urban ideology, building on existing scholarly maturity in this field.
Ancient City of Qalhat
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2026 —
WHE33EBC06731
Seawater Air Conditioning (SWAC) emerges as a viable solution for sustainable cooling in Oman, offering significant energy savings and reduced carbon emissions. A techno-economic evaluation at the Al Jissah-Yitti site in Muscat demonstrated that implementing a 15,000 TR SWAC system could slash power consumption to just 1 MW compared to conventional air conditioning, with a levelized cost of energy (LCOE) of $0.019/kWh, a return on investment of 26.7%, and a payback period of 4.6 years. Similar benefits were projected for a proposed datacenter in Quriyat/Qalhat, with potential net-zero emissions and 70% lower operational expenses (OPEX) than conventional cooling systems. This pioneering study assesses SWAC's feasibility, technical viability, and economic potential in Oman, marking the first comprehensive analysis of its kind in the region and supporting Oman's net-zero emission goals by 2050.
Alto Douro Wine Region
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2026 —
WHE32799C8210
A comprehensive analysis of Tabique buildings in the UNESCO-listed Alto Douro Wine Region reveals that despite visible deterioration, these traditional timber-framed structures retain robust mechanical performance and structural integrity. The study, combining fieldwork, laboratory testing, numerical modeling, and statistical surveys, demonstrates that Tabique buildings exhibit satisfactory vertical load-bearing capacity, fire resistance, and thermal performance. However, it highlights a critical issue: current rehabilitation practices often involve the replacement of original timber systems with reinforced concrete or steel, which risks compromising heritage value. The research proposes a practitioner-oriented workflow for structural assessment and conservation, emphasizing the need for specialized preservation approaches that balance structural safety, regulatory compliance, and the protection of traditional construction techniques. This work provides a scientific foundation for sustainable interventions aimed at preserving the unique architectural legacy of the Alto Douro landscape.
Hebron/Al-Khalil Old Town
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2026 —
WHE47EE0DEC0A
Palestinian women in Hebron's Old City employ everyday resistance tactics to reclaim and revitalize urban space despite severe spatial fragmentation imposed by Israeli occupation. This study highlights their pivotal role in challenging urbicide through professional initiatives and daily practices, asserting their right to the city. The research combines situated knowledge with archival data, site observations, social media analysis, and reports from organizations like the Hebron Rehabilitation Committee and UN-OCHA, offering a nuanced understanding of resilience in oppressive socio-spatial conditions.
Taj Mahal
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2026 —
WHE2B8F174A92
Electromagnetic sensing techniques, including micro-Raman spectroscopy and terahertz (THz) imaging, offer a rapid and reliable method for detecting surface and sub-surface damage in marble structures like the Taj Mahal. This approach, tested on white slabs with ornamental motifs similar to those at the site, successfully mapped minute changes caused by sulfur, organic materials, and water damage with high accuracy. By providing objective, non-invasive assessments, these techniques could significantly reduce the time-consuming and subjective nature of traditional visual evaluations, leading to more efficient and cost-effective conservation efforts for cultural heritage sites.
Frontiers of the Roman Empire – Dacia
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2026 —
WHE8B3E276850
A comprehensive inventory of the Botna River basin's tangible cultural heritage, encompassing 157 sites with over one-third being archaeological, reveals significant potential for UNESCO World Heritage nomination. The research, leveraging official databases and advanced methodologies including drone imagery and QGIS analysis, highlights the basin's underappreciated historical and geographical diversity. Notably, some identified sites may strengthen the cross-border significance of Trajan's Wall, aligning with Romania's existing 'Frontiers of the Roman Empire – Dacia' UNESCO listing (2024). This study underscores the basin's value for heritage promotion and valorization.
