Mehmed Paša Sokolović Bridge in Višegrad
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Ottoman stone bridges, particularly those spanning the Balkan rivers from Edirne to Mostar, stand as both engineering marvels and cultural symbols, inspiring poetry, prose, and metaphors across centuries. These structures, including the Mehmed Paša Sokolović Bridge in Višegrad, the Stone Bridge in Skopje, and the Mostar Bridge, were not only vital for military logistics but also became enduring subjects of artistic expression. The bridges' architectural grandeur and symbolic significance—often likened to the Sirat Bridge or celestial phenomena—reflect their deep cultural resonance. This study identifies and interprets these bridges through literary works, revealing their role as connectors between history, art, and geography.
Hidden Christian Sites in the Nagasaki Region
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Four UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Japan's Gotō Archipelago, inscribed in 2018, reveal a complex cultural hybridity shaped by the interplay of Hidden Christian (HC) refugees and their environment during the 18th and 19th centuries. Despite economic and tourist-driven motivations behind the World Heritage campaign, these sites offer a deeper understanding of HC identity through oral history and historical documents, challenging simplistic narratives. The study demonstrates that HC communities, often marginalized in broader Japanese history, integrated religious practices with local ecological conditions, including harsh winters and coastal resources. By analyzing four key sites—supported by new oral histories—the research reorients East Asian historical narratives to include these interstitial, marginal spaces, emphasizing the significance of human-environmental interactions in shaping cultural heritage.
Persepolis
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Early 18th-century travelers, including Jean Chardin, Engelbert Kaempfer, and Cornelis de Bruijn, faced significant challenges in accurately documenting Persepolis' monuments due to social, material, and environmental factors. Their fieldwork observations and subsequent transformations into published books and engravings were influenced by these conditions, leading to potential inaccuracies, particularly noted in de Bruijn's work. The study highlights how the unstable nature of Persepolis as an archaeological site and the travelers' efforts to represent it through mobile material supports compromised their claims to truth, revealing the complexities of early historical knowledge representation.
Mudejar Architecture of Aragon
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2021 —
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Research reveals that the geometric rules governing ribbed vaults in Late Mediterranean Gothic architecture exhibit remarkable consistency across distant regions and periods. By analyzing two case studies—Iglesia Parroquial del Salvador la Seo in Zaragoza, Spain, and the Church of Santa Lucia in Cagliari, Italy—the study identifies invariant structural principles despite their placement at opposite ends of the 14th to 17th-century Gothic timeline. Employing terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) to generate high-precision point cloud data, the team mapped the intrados profiles of ribs and arches, enabling detailed geometric reconstruction. The findings suggest that core design invariants persist even across vast temporal and geographical spans, offering new insights into the evolution of Mudejar architecture in Aragon.
City of Verona
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2021 —
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Transfeminist activism in Verona demonstrates resilience against 'anti-gender' movements, highlighting the effectiveness of organized counteractions. The study examines Italian 'anti-gender' campaigns (2013–2017), particularly those led by Catholic and right-wing groups, and their legislative impacts, such as the Pillon decree and anti-abortion motions in Verona's City Council. It also analyzes the 13th World Congress of Families held in Verona. Transfeminist responses, including the 'Verona transfeminist city' demonstration and the formation of GIFTS (Italian network of gender studies), underscore the strength of collective resistance. The research combines qualitative analysis of mobilizations with case studies to illustrate the dynamic interplay between conservative backlash and progressive advocacy.
Antigua Naval Dockyard and Related Archaeological Sites
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2021 —
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Historical research reveals that the Antigua Naval Dockyard served as a hub for fugitive activity, where enslaved individuals successfully collaborated to escape slavery aboard Royal Navy warships. This multi-year effort involved 'King’s Negroes' and other Black Antiguans, demonstrating collective resistance against British crown slavery. The study, based on original dockyard records, shipbuilding labor analysis, and built environment examination, sheds new light on petit marronage and naval labor dynamics while highlighting tensions between slavery as a labor system and property. It challenges conventional views by framing fugitive activity as inherently communal.
Ilulissat Icefjord
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2021 —
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Greenland's Ilulissat Icefjord serves as both a symbol and a microcosm of climate change, offering unique opportunities for tourism that balance education and adventure. The region's rapid environmental transformations are leveraged by the Ilulissat Icefjord Centre to inform global audiences about climate impacts, despite the paradoxical greenhouse gas emissions generated by long-distance travel to this destination. Greenland's shift toward 'adventure tourism' reflects an adaptive strategy to diversify its appeal amid melting ice and snow, catering to evolving cultural demands for ethnocentrically defined experiences. This approach underscores the tension between mitigating climate change through awareness and the environmental costs of engaging with it.
Archaeological Site of Atapuerca
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2021 —
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A study reveals distinct functional differences in Middle Palaeolithic flint tools, linked to the unique characteristics of their respective settlements. Researchers analyzed use-wear traces on Neogene and Cretaceous flints from the Fuente Mudarra open-air site and Prado Vargas cave, respectively, in northern Spain. By comparing experimental data with archaeological findings, they assessed the reliability of traceological analysis for these sites. The experiment highlighted how material properties influence tool functionality, providing new insights into the adaptability and resource use of early human populations.
Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park with the Archeological Sites of Paestum and Velia, and the Certosa di Padula
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2021 —
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A study conducted in the UNESCO-listed Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park revealed that converting a chestnut forest to agricultural land for bean cultivation led to a decline in soil microbial activity, primarily due to reduced organic matter content. Despite this, no significant changes were observed in substrate utilization patterns over time. Researchers used two complementary methods—Degens' catabolic response profile and Biolog community-level physiological profiling—to assess functional diversity. The former was more effective at distinguishing between forest and agricultural soils, while the latter captured seasonal variability. These findings underscore the sensitivity of soil microbial communities to land-use changes and highlight the importance of monitoring such transitions in protected areas.
City of Quito
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2021 —
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A study of outdoor canvas paintings in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Quito, Ecuador, reveals significant fungal and bacterial biodeterioration, with species such as Bacillus, Penicillium, Alternaria, Mucor, and Aspergillus identified as key agents. The research, conducted on five paintings from the cloisters of San Francisco, Santo Domingo, and Santa Clara, used traditional and biomolecular techniques to analyze microbial presence and conservation state. Climatic conditions in the San Francisco cloister were also assessed, highlighting problematic exhibition environments that accelerate artwork deterioration. The findings underscore the need for targeted conservation strategies to protect these culturally significant artworks.
Historic Centre of Naples
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Research reveals that widenings within historical city centers, such as those found in the ancient city center of Naples, possess significant restorative potential. These spaces, often overlooked among narrow streets, offer temporary respite from urban noise and chaos, comparable to the acoustically advantageous cloisters and courts of historic buildings. The study employed binaural recordings and in situ interviews to assess these spaces' acoustic peculiarities and non-acoustic characteristics, demonstrating their ability to induce restoration. This finding expands the understanding of quiet zones beyond traditional green parks, highlighting the importance of integrating such spaces into urban planning for historical city centers.
Nan Madol: Ceremonial Centre of Eastern Micronesia
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2021 —
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Artificial islands, historically used for security and cultural purposes such as Nan Madol in Eastern Micronesia, have evolved to address modern challenges like population growth, sea-level rise, and land scarcity. This study examines the shifting objectives of artificial island construction from historical defense and trade to contemporary needs such as urban development, tourism, and renewable energy integration. It highlights the environmental impacts and future possibilities of such projects, including proposals for coastal erosion mitigation and power generation. The research emphasizes the need for balanced consideration of benefits and drawbacks, suggesting that while these islands offer new developmental opportunities, their ecological consequences must be thoroughly evaluated.
Tabriz Historic Bazaar Complex
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2021 —
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The Tabriz Historic Bazaar Complex, one of the oldest and most significant bazaars in the world, stands as a testament to its enduring role as a center for trade, craftsmanship, and cultural exchange. This study reveals that the complex, reconstructed during the Gajars period and still operational today, is not merely a marketplace but also a symbol of public, political, and religious significance. The bazaar's structure, comprising elements like the main passage (Gaysariye), intersections (charsug), linear shop rows (rasta), and specialized sections named after goods, professions, or founders, showcases its intricate organization. Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2010, the Tabriz Bazaar Complex exemplifies the fusion of historical trade dynamics and architectural innovation along the Silk Road.
Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
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A hidden ecological epistemology rooted in women's botanical education emerges from Virginia Woolf's 'Kew Gardens,' challenging the male-dominated, speed-driven narratives of modern ecology. The study reveals how Woolf's prose mirrors the detailed, time-sensitive observations of women trained in British school gardens, offering an alternative to the aerial surveillance and photography dominant in 20th-century ecological research. By analyzing the gender dynamics within early British ecology, the research uncovers a marginalized yet significant scientific practice that resists Enlightenment modernity's emphasis on control and order.
Portovenere, Cinque Terre, and the Islands (Palmaria, Tino and Tinetto)
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2021 —
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A study on gastronomy tourism in Cinque Terre, Italy, reveals that cooking classes significantly enhance tourist experiences through four interconnected dimensions: involvement, hedonism, local culture, and knowledge. These dimensions often overlap, creating complex bonds that enrich the overall experience. The research analyzed online reviews from TripAdvisor using an experiential framework to assess how tourists perceive these interactive foodscapes. This finding contributes to the understanding of third-generation gastronomy tourism, emphasizing the role of participation in culinary activities within UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Arslantepe Mound
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2021 —
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Archaeological excavations at Arslantepe Mound, located near Malatya in Turkey, have uncovered evidence suggesting the presence of one of the earliest bureaucratic systems, predating those found in ancient China and Egypt. The site, featuring a continuous settlement layer rising 30 meters above ground, reveals structures such as palatial buildings, storage facilities, and hieroglyphic seals, indicating organized economic and administrative practices. Artifacts including metal swords and figurines hint at a stratified society with a ruling elite, potentially linked to political and ceremonial functions. This discovery challenges traditional narratives on the origins of bureaucracy, proposing that its roots extend further back in history than previously believed.
Port, Fortresses and Group of Monuments, Cartagena
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2021 —
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Seventeenth-century Jesuit missionaries in Cartagena de Indias relied on Black women interpreters to evangelize newly arrived Africans, employing them as part of a broader missionary strategy more typical in Asia than in Iberian America. Analysis of missionary texts reveals that the Jesuits justified this practice by framing these women as analogous to Jesus's female followers in the New Testament, which allowed their roles to be acknowledged but also obscured deeper insights into their significance for both the interpreters and the African communities they served. This study reconstructs the context of these portrayals, uncovering ideological effects embedded in missionary writings and highlighting patterns of gendered language used across Iberian missionary projects during the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries.
Monastery of Alcobaça
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A single, meticulously preserved codex from the Cistercian Monastery of Santa Maria de Alcobaça offers invaluable insights into the formative years of Portugal's sovereign kingdom. Compiled around 1250 in the monastery's scriptorium and housed in Lisbon's Biblioteca Nacional, this codex (Alc.415) is part of one of Europe's most significant monastic library collections, comprising over 460 medieval works—many illuminated or retaining original bindings. Founded by Portugal's first king, Afonso Henriques, under the influence of St Bernard of Clairvaux, Alcobaça's library reflects both local and external intellectual influences, providing a rare window into the cultural and political landscape of 12th- to 13th-century Portugal.
Vredefort Dome
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2021 —
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New geochemical and isotopic data reveal that the mafic granophyre at the Vredefort impact structure, South Africa's largest confirmed crater, likely formed through assimilation of mafic country rock—primarily epidiorite—into felsic impact melt. Contrary to a two-stage emplacement model, this study supports a single intrusive phase where mafic components were incorporated into the dominant felsic granophyre. High-precision analyses of highly siderophile elements (HSEs), Re-Os isotopes, and first-ever Se isotope data, alongside comparisons with Dominion Group meta-lava and epidiorite, provide robust evidence for this process. These findings challenge previous interpretations and refine our understanding of impact melt dynamics in large craters.
Sichuan Giant Panda Sanctuaries - Wolong, Mt Siguniang and Jiajin Mountains
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A study of wild animals in Sichuan Wolong National Natural Reserve reveals that Blastocystis, a prevalent eukaryotic parasite with zoonotic potential, infects 10% of the sampled wildlife. The research identified five subtypes (ST1, ST3, ST5, ST13, and ST14), with ST13 and ST14 being the most common, each accounting for 33% of positive samples. Notably, four of these subtypes (ST1, ST3, ST5, ST14) have been previously linked to human infections, suggesting that wild animals in this region may serve as reservoirs for Blastocystis. The study analyzed 300 fecal samples from 27 wildlife species across three areas, using PCR amplification of the SSU rRNA gene to determine subtype prevalence and genetic characteristics. This is the first molecular investigation of Blastocystis infection in wild animals in southwestern China, highlighting the need for further research on zoonotic transmission risks.
Western Caucasus
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2021 —
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Research reveals that persimmon germplasm in the Western Caucasus, one of the most northerly collections, exhibits distinct genetic clustering and admixture patterns. Using 19 microsatellite (SSR) and 10 inter-simple sequence repeat (ISSR) markers, scientists analyzed 51 D. kaki cultivars, 3 D. virginiana accessions, and 57 D. lotus accessions from six populations. STRUCTURE analysis identified three genetic clusters, with D. kaki showing significant admixture—particularly in frost-tolerant genotypes like 'Mountain Rogers' and 'Nikitskaya Bordovaya,' which are likely interspecific hybrids with D. virginiana. In contrast, D. lotus accessions showed no admixture, suggesting a single introduction source for this species in the region. These findings provide critical insights for conservation strategies and breeding programs, emphasizing the genetic diversity and potential hybrid origins of key persimmon cultivars.
Simien National Park
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Research reveals limited genetic diversity and restricted gene flow between Ankober Serin (Crithagra ankoberensis) populations in Simien Mountains National Park and Guassa Community Conservation Area, Ethiopia. The study used five microsatellite markers to analyze blood samples from 30 birds across both sites, finding notable but low differentiation despite shared alleles indicating current gene flow. Deviations from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium suggest small population sizes and geographical barriers, such as steep mountains and deep valleys, reinforce isolation by distance. However, a stepping-stone mechanism may explain limited gene flow between intermediate populations. The findings highlight the need for further research to clarify biogeographic history and inform conservation strategies for this Ethiopian endemic species.
Shark Bay, Western Australia
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A groundbreaking study reveals the functional complexity of microbial mats in Shark Bay's Blue Holes, uncovering diverse and potentially novel microorganisms, including members of DPANN, Asgard archaea, and candidate phyla radiation. These mats, thriving in hypersaline conditions, exhibit unique metabolic pathways, such as photoheterotrophy, and harbor a range of putative rhodopsins with uncharacterized functions. The research employed high-throughput metagenomic sequencing and hyperspectral confocal microscopy to analyze 117 medium- to high-quality metagenome-assembled genomes, identifying critical microbial interactions, viral defense mechanisms, elemental transport, osmoprotection, heavy metal resistance, and UV resistance. This study significantly enhances our understanding of these distinct mat systems and their adaptive responses.
Via Appia. Regina Viarum
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2021 —
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A geoarchaeological study of the Roman Pietra dell’Oglio bridge, located near the border between Campania and Basilicata, Italy, reveals that it is the only surviving Roman infrastructure crossing the Ofanto River in this region. The research identifies the bridge with the ancient Pons Aufidi, linking it to the old Appian Way route between Mirabella Eclano and Venosa. Built using opus quadratum and opus incertum techniques with local materials such as pebbles from the Ofanto River and travertine, the bridge's construction dates suggest a timeline of 2nd to 1st century BCE. The study highlights 18 original architectural elements, while noting subsequent restorations, modifications, and additions over the centuries. This work advances understanding of Roman bridge engineering in Campania, providing insights into the durability and adaptability of ancient infrastructure.
Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes
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Research on Jeju Island's Quaternary alkaline volcanic rocks reveals two distinct magmatic events shaped the island's geology. Analysis of major and trace elements indicates that these rocks originated from a single parent magma, with minimal continental crustal contamination (0–0.3% by AFC modeling), rather than mixing different magma sources. The study suggests that the upper mantle beneath Jeju was influenced by arc magmatism due to the subduction of the Pacific Plate beneath the Eurasian Plate, represented by mantle xenoliths. A second magmatic event occurred in a divergent setting, forming the host volcanic rocks. This dual process, combined with fractional crystallization and slight crustal assimilation, explains the geochemical diversity observed. The study also highlights that Jeju's xenoliths exhibit unique geochemical patterns, prompting further investigation.
Kluane / Wrangell-St. Elias / Glacier Bay / Tatshenshini-Alsek
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A new geochronological study reveals the spatial-temporal evolution of magmatism in the Wrangell Arc, a region characterized by some of Earth's largest Quaternary volcanoes. The research documents the initiation of magmatic activity around 30–17 million years ago along the Totschunda fault and its subsequent southeastward progression at 17–10 million years ago along the Duke River fault, attributed to dextral strike-slip faults and changes in slab geometry. Later phases (13–6 Ma) show westward progression, while recent magmatism (6 Ma to present) has moved northwestward, correlating with increased plate convergence rates. The study attributes voluminous magmatism to shallow subduction-related flux melting and slab edge melting driven by asthenospheric upwelling along the Yakutat flat slab's lateral edge. Additionally, rivers sampled yielded Paleozoic–Mesozoic detrital zircon and volcanic lithic age populations, reflecting earlier magmatic episodes in underlying accreted terranes.
Huanglong Scenic and Historic Interest Area
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2021 —
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A complex, context-dependent relationship between geodiversity and biodiversity was revealed through the analysis of two proxy measures—textural satellite image data and landscape metrics—in the Loess Plateau, China. The study found that while habitat heterogeneity increased in most areas (39.87–62.41%) from 2000 to 2015, particularly in central and southwestern regions, landscape metrics decreased significantly (38.14–71.94%) in the same zones, including the Ziwuling and Huanglong forest areas. Geographically-weighted spatial correlation analysis showed that stronger correlations between geodiversity and biodiversity proxies occurred in human-dominated landscapes. These findings underscore the importance of integrating geodiversity and biodiversity in conservation planning, particularly in areas with high geodiversity or significant human influence.
Saint Catherine Area
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Research identifies two key groundwater aquifers in Wadi Morra, South Sinai, Egypt: the Nubian sandstone aquifer and the fractured basement aquifer. These aquifers are present along the northern part of the Saint Catherine - Nuweiba road but absent to the south due to faulting. The study used Schlumberger Vertical Electrical Soundings (VESs) with a maximum electrode spacing of 700 meters, analyzing 17 VES profiles to construct geoelectrical models and cross-sections. This approach revealed five distinct geoelectric layers, two of which are water-bearing. The findings divide the study area into two zones: one with groundwater presence (Zone A) and another without (Zone B), due to the absence of basement rocks at shallow depths. The research recommends Zone A as the optimal location for productive well drilling.
Paris, Banks of the Seine
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A key finding of this study is the dual significance of Paris as both 'The City of Light'—a title rooted in its pioneering gas street lighting under Louis XIV and its intellectual enlightenment legacy—and a hub for theatrical civilization. The research maps the evolution and geography of notable theaters, including Bourgogne, Marais, and Guénégaud, along the Seine River during the eras of Corneille, Racine, and Molière. By analyzing historical records and spatial distributions, the study reveals how these theaters shaped Parisian cultural identity and theatrical traditions. This approach combines archival research with geographical analysis to trace the interplay between urban development, river dynamics, and theatrical innovation on both banks of the Seine.
Virunga National Park
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2021 —
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A novel analysis reveals that fear plays a pivotal role in perpetuating 'green' violence and militarization within transboundary protected areas, such as the intended Virunga Conservation Area spanning the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, and Uganda. Despite their promotion as instruments of peacebuilding, these regions experience rising violent conservation practices, driven by discourses of fear among park rangers. These narratives, shaped by governmental interests in sovereignty and territorial integrity, undermine transboundary collaboration efforts. The study, based on long-term ethnographic fieldwork, argues that integrating the voices of those affected by these practices can pave the way for non-violent conservation pathways in the future.
Kyiv: Saint-Sophia Cathedral and Related Monastic Buildings, Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra
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A geoinformation model reveals that exogenous geological processes (EGP) on the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra's territory are driven by disturbances in surface and groundwater regimes, threatening the site's stability. The study identifies key factors—such as water table fluctuations—that accelerate erosion, landslides, or subsidence, particularly in vulnerable areas like the cathedral complex and monastic buildings. By analyzing long-term hydrogeological data, researchers pinpointed high-risk zones where EGP could worsen without intervention. The findings underscore the need for predictive modeling to mitigate these threats, ensuring the preservation of this UNESCO World Heritage Site's geological integrity.
Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes
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A comprehensive geological survey of the Jeju Samdasoo watershed, covering approximately 27 km², reveals that the region's volcanic activity spans from about 48.5 thousand to 17.3 thousand years ago. The study identifies 15 distinct lava flows, primarily composed of alkali basalt to trachyandesite, with a notable oldest flow dating back to 48.5±11.4 ka and the youngest, Noseorim lava flow, at 17.3±8.6 ka. The research also highlights the formation of alluvial-proluvial layers during quiescent periods between volcanic eruptions, significantly shaping the landscape. By integrating geological mapping with geochemical analysis and radiometric dating (Ar40/Ar39), the study reconstructs the temporal sequence of volcanic events, providing critical insights into the region's dynamic geological history.
Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes
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2021 —
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Research reveals that the subsurface geology of Jeju Island's Samdasoo watershed, Korea, spans approximately 500,000 years of volcanic activity, with lava flows and non-volcanic sediment layers forming its foundation. Analysis of eight drill cores identified 19 distinct geological units, including alkaline basalt to trachybasalt compositions, with the lowest layers showing more evolved tholeiitic basalt characteristics. Ar-Ar dating pinpointed three major volcanic phases: Phase I (466±9–444±8 ka), Phase II (367.5±7.9–212.8±4.0 ka), and Phase III (200±13–26.9±3.3 ka). The study integrated core analysis, petrography, geochemistry, and dating to reconstruct the region's volcanic history, providing critical insights for understanding Jeju Island's geological evolution.
Saint Catherine Area
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A significant discovery of uranium and thorium mineralization has been identified in the pegmatites of Gabal Suwair and Gabal Khosh Daba, located north of St. Katherine city in South-Central Sinai, Egypt. These pegmatites, among the youngest outcropped rocks in the region, exhibit high levels of equivalent uranium (eU) and thorium (eTh), with maximum values reaching 670 ppm and 180 ppm at Gabal Khosh Daba, respectively, and 520 ppm and 330 ppm at Gabal Suwair. The study reveals distinct mineralogical characteristics: zoned pegmatites contain primary uranium minerals like uraninite, brannerite, and carnotite, suggesting a syngenetic origin during magmatic processes, while unzoned pegmatites host secondary uranium minerals such as samarskite, betafite, and uranothorite, likely formed through hydrothermal activity. This research highlights the potential of the Saint Catherine area for uranium and thorium exploration, contributing valuable insights into the geological and mineralogical diversity of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes
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Researchers have identified Wollabong-Gunsan as the oldest exposed twin volcanoes on Jeju Island, providing new insights into the volcanic history of the region. The study, published in the Journal of the Geological Society of Korea, reveals that these volcanoes formed between 920,000 and 830,000 years ago through a series of magmatic eruptions, followed by a period of dormancy and renewed activity around 530,000 years ago. The study also challenges historical records linking the Gunsan volcano to an eruption in 1007 CE. To reconstruct the volcanic history, the team conducted field geological surveys, petrographic analysis of lava flows, rock chemistry analysis, Ar-Ar dating, and re-evaluated nearby drill core stratigraphy. Notably, they discovered a previously unknown basaltic lava flow (AB-I) with an age of 917.7±23.2 ka to 915.6±11.5 ka, which had only been documented in drill cores before.
The Climats, terroirs of Burgundy
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Research in the Mercurey terroir of Burgundy reveals an early soil maintenance strategy linked to vine cultivation. The study identifies two distinct phases of sediment deposition over 2,800 years: one dominated by coarse colluvium from solifluction flows (beginning around 800 cal. BC) and another characterized by fine sedimentation and high vine charcoal concentration post-1400 cal. AD. This shift suggests that medieval wine-growing practices, including the construction of agricultural infrastructures, disrupted sediment flow, retaining coarser materials on hillslopes and reducing erosion in valley bottoms. The findings were derived from sedimentary deposit analysis and pedoanthracological studies, offering insights into the coevolution of geomorphic dynamics and human land use in UNESCO-listed Burgundian landscapes.
Olympic National Park
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Olympic National Park's coastal region, surveyed from 2012 to 2016, reveals a dynamic and unique geomorphology shaped by the interplay of glaciation, tectonic activity, and coastal processes. The study identified 802 distinct landforms, including rare tombolos, numerous sea stacks, and 74 sand beaches, with glacial landforms such as moraines being the most extensive. Active tectonics and high wave energy have influenced this coastline, resulting in the absence of long barrier islands or deltas typically found elsewhere. The coast is divided into three distinct sections, each characterized by unique foreshore landforms associated with backshore and tectonic conditions. Glacial deposits are prevalent in the northernmost section, while the central section features intensely weathered bedrock prone to slumping, and the southern section dominates with long sandy beaches. Coastal bluffs, composed of 37% bedrock and 41% glacial drift, exhibit significant weathering and landslides due to wave undercutting and high rainfall. The study highlights the complex interaction of geological processes that have shaped this unique coastal landscape.
Ancient Maya City and Protected Tropical Forests of Calakmul, Campeche
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A comprehensive geomorphological study of the Mirador-Calakmul Karst Basin, spanning Guatemala and Mexico, reveals its complex hydrologic features and subsurface flow patterns. Using advanced remote sensing techniques—including orthophotographs, satellite DEMs, multispectral images, and LiDAR data—the research maps five distinct karst landscapes, dominated by fluviokarst valleys, and identifies critical hydrologic elements such as seasonal swamps, dolines, intermittent lakes, and springs. The study delineates the basin's boundaries through spatial analysis of karst valleys, spring lines, and surface drainage, while thin section analysis confirms the lithological composition of the upper Buena Vista Formation. A regional groundwater map illustrates east-to-west subsurface flow, providing insights into the geomorphological context that supported the ancient Maya civilization during the Middle and Late Preclassic periods (1000 BCE–150 CE).
Tropical Rainforest Heritage of Sumatra
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Geothermal exploitation within the core zone of Gunung Leuser National Park (GLNP) poses a significant threat to the international recognition of the Tropical Rainforest Heritage of Sumatra (TRHS) as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Despite legal provisions such as Act No. 21/2014 aiming to facilitate geothermal energy development, this study reveals that such exploitation is legally unjustifiable within GLNP's core zone and could compromise TRHS's heritage status. The research employs normative legal analysis using secondary data, including primary and secondary legal materials, to assess the potential impacts of geothermal power plant activities on conservation interests and heritage recognition.
Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical Landscape
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Geotourism emerges as a sustainable development strategy for Namibia, offering economic benefits, community well-being, and conservation. This study highlights its potential to diversify the country's resource-oriented economy, addressing socio-economic inequalities in rural areas. By leveraging Namibia's rich geological assets and landscapes, geotourism can generate revenue while promoting environmental stewardship. Case studies of the /Ai/Ais-Richtersveld Transfrontier Park and Hoba Meteorite National Monument demonstrate its feasibility and impact. The research underscores geotourism as a viable mechanism for sustainable growth, aligning with Namibia's commitment to responsible tourism.
Messel Pit Fossil Site
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A network of interconnected factors, including geological heritage, science communication, education, and local stakeholder engagement, is identified as crucial for the sustainable development of geotourism in UNESCO Global Geoparks (UGGPs). This study highlights that successful implementation requires more than just infrastructure development—such as signage—and necessitates a holistic approach integrating multiple elements. Examples from UGGPs like Lesvos Island (Greece), Naturtejo (Portugal), Vulkaneifel (Germany), and Hong Kong (China), alongside the Messel Pit World Heritage Site (WHS, Germany), demonstrate how this conceptual framework can be applied to foster sustainable tourism aligned with the UN 2030 Agenda. The research combines field observations, website analyses, and published materials to assess these practices.
Gamzigrad-Romuliana, Palace of Galerius
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Gamzigrad-Romuliana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in eastern Serbia, has been identified as the location of Felix Romuliana, a significant late Roman complex built by Emperor Galerius. This discovery was solidified in the 1980s with the finding of an inscription that confirmed the site's identity. The first volume of 'Gamzigrad-Studien I' presents the results of German-Serbian excavations conducted around the Palace of Romuliana, shedding light on its architectural and historical significance during the late Roman period (293–311 AD). The complex, covering approximately 40,000 m², includes a palace and temples, reflecting its importance in the ancient province of Dacia Ripensis. This volume marks a significant contribution to the understanding of this archaeological site, which has been studied since 1953 but lacked conclusive identification until recent findings.
Silk Roads: the Routes Network of Chang'an-Tianshan Corridor
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UNESCO's designation of 'Heritage Routes' for cultural routes with historical, patrimonial, and territorial value highlights the need for integrated linear management and protection. A comparative study of two UNESCO World Heritage Routes—the Silk Road: Chang'an-Tianshan Corridor in China and the Camino de Santiago in Castilla y León—reveals key differences and challenges in their management. While the Silk Road stands out for its cultural and landscape diversity, the Camino de Santiago is characterized by homogeneity. Both routes face common difficulties, including the multiplicity of laws across territories, the lack of cohesive route-wide policies, and a predominant focus on tourism over heritage conservation. The study underscores the importance of unified approaches to protect and promote these linear heritage sites effectively.
Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, Northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island
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2021 —
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A new species of conifer sawfly, Gilpinia okinawa sp. nov., has been identified from Okinawa Island, Japan, along with the redescription of two similar Japanese species, G. hakonensis and G. amamiana. The study also designates a lectotype for Lophyrus hakonensis and reveals that G. fukudai is a synonym of G. hakonensis. For the first time, male descriptions are provided for G. hakonensis and G. amamiana, with G. amamiana newly recorded from Tokunoshima Island. Additionally, the study compares ovipositors of five European Gilpinia species, including new illustrations for G. frutetorum, G. laricis, and G. variegata, while also recording G. laricis in Bulgaria. This research contributes to the taxonomy and distribution of the G. socia group within Japan and Europe.
City of Safranbolu
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2021 —
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Noise pollution levels in Safranbolu, Turkey, were found to frequently exceed hazardous thresholds, posing significant risks to human health and quality of life. The study, conducted across 47 measurement points during summer 2017 and winter 2018, revealed that noise levels ranged from 30.8 dBA to 73.3 dBA, with noon periods showing the highest pollution, particularly on weekdays in winter. GIS-based mapping identified critical areas where exposure could lead to physiological problems, affecting tourism and daily life. The research highlights the need for mitigation strategies to reduce noise levels below regulatory limits.
Catalan Romanesque Churches of the Vall de Boí
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2021 —
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A precise azimuth of 91.41° (±1.91°) in the orientation of equinoctially aligned Romanesque churches in the Spanish Pyrenees suggests the use of advanced land surveying techniques inherited from medieval scholars like Gisemundus, rather than direct solar observation. The study analyzed 32 churches built between the 11th and 13th centuries, comparing their orientations to liturgical texts from the period. Given the mountainous terrain's obstruction of solar sightlines, the researchers concluded that these churches likely used geometric methods—such as those described by Gisemundus (c.800)—to achieve accurate east-west alignment with minimal error.
Auschwitz Birkenau German Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp (1940-1945)
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2021 —
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A rare musical artifact from Auschwitz-Birkenau, the song 'Die schönste Zeit des Lebens' (The Most Beautiful Time of Life), has been meticulously restored and performed after decades of neglect. Originally a 1941 German foxtrot arranged by prisoners for a jazz ensemble, the manuscript—preserved in the Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum—underwent significant orchestral changes, introducing errors that required detailed analytical correction. This study reconstructs the song’s original intent through 'micro-interventions,' offering a poignant example of how music was both a means of survival and a form of resistance under Nazi oppression. The research highlights the challenges and ethical considerations of preserving and performing such works, providing new insights into the cultural resilience of prisoners during one of history's darkest periods.
Historic Centres of Berat and Gjirokastra
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2021 —
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A study on the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Berat and Gjirokastra highlights the challenges and considerations for international professionals when evaluating restoration proposals in foreign towns. It emphasizes the need to balance between preserving cultural heritage and promoting revitalization, while ensuring that the opinions of local inhabitants are integrated into decision-making processes. The research explores potential levels for proposals, identifies unrealistic suggestions, and examines the consequences of such decisions on Gjirokastra's status as a World Heritage Site. It also delves into the necessary knowledge for local handling and the extent to which buildings can be demolished or preserved. The study advocates for collaborative efforts between professionals and locals to create a well-functioning unity that respects both modernization and cultural heritage.
Historic Centres of Berat and Gjirokastra
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2021 —
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Gjirokastra exemplifies the complex interplay between architecture and socio-political transformations during modern and postmodern periods. The study reveals that the city's architectural evolution reflects radical ideological shifts tied to politico-economic and sociocultural systems, particularly under capitalist globalization pressures. By analyzing urban development through these lenses, researchers highlight how migration, uncontrolled growth, and economic dynamics challenge traditional architectural practices. The research frames Gjirokastra as a case study for shrinking cities, offering insights into the future trajectory of heritage sites amid global crises.
Historic Centres of Berat and Gjirokastra
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2021 —
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Gjirokastra, a UNESCO-listed city facing demographic and economic decline, can be revitalized by transforming into a 'City of Health' through strategic urban planning. The study proposes attracting older residents from abroad for retirement, leveraging existing resources to develop a local medical and sanitary industry. This approach aims to diversify the economy beyond tourism, attract younger professionals, and create a self-sustaining cycle of growth. The research identifies key opportunities in integrating isolated urban areas, fostering synergies between the city and its surroundings, and establishing a medical excellence hub. Methodologies included on-site surveys, literature reviews, SWOT analysis, and urban sketches to devise a strategic plan for Gjirokastra's rebirth, with technology solutions addressing emerging challenges.
