Writing-on-Stone / Áísínai’pi
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2021 —
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Researchers have uncovered new instances of Vertical Series and Foothills Abstract rock art within the Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park, a region renowned for its extensive Plains Biographic and Plains Ceremonial traditions. These discoveries represent the first documented cases of these lesser-known styles in the area, challenging previous assumptions about the distribution of rock art traditions. The study describes and illustrates several panels, offering insights into their possible age, affiliation, and broader significance within the Vertical Series and Foothills Abstract traditions. While the findings are preliminary, they suggest that additional examples of these understudied styles may exist but have gone unrecognized in the past.
East Rennell
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2021 —
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A recent survey of East Rennell, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Solomon Islands, uncovered four new vertebrate records for the island: Stephan's emerald dove, Maluku myotis, littoral skink, and brahminy blindsnake. This discovery highlights the potential for continued field studies combined with DNA analysis to reveal even greater endemic biodiversity on the island. The survey documented a total of 56 species, including squamates, mammals, and birds, underscoring the rich vertebrate diversity that could be lost due to ongoing habitat destruction outside protected areas. The findings emphasize the urgent need for conservation actions that integrate local community needs to protect this significant site.
Whale Sanctuary of El Vizcaino
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2021 —
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A recent study has identified eight new fish species in Laguna Ojo de Liebre, Baja California Sur, Mexico, bringing the total ichthyofauna count to 39 species across 25 families. This significant addition updates previous records from two decades ago and suggests potential impacts of anomalous warming events on marine biodiversity. Researchers conducted six seasonal visits between June 2015 and August 2016, employing diving, trapping, hook & line, and gillnet commercial fishing techniques to document the fish species. The findings contribute crucial baseline data before the installation of reef modules aimed at supporting red lobster and fish aggregation in this UNESCO-listed Whale Sanctuary of El Vizcaino.
Curonian Spit
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2021 —
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Researchers have identified three new genetically distinct phytoplasma subgroups associated with pine tree disease on the Curonian Spit, Lithuania. These subgroups—16SrXXI-C, 16SrXXI-D, and 16SrXXI-E—were discovered through a survey of phloem-feeding insects, primarily aphids, collected from diseased pine trees between 2016 and 2019. The study used semi-nested PCR and sequence analysis to detect phytoplasmas in Scots pine aphids (Cinara pini) and waxy grey pine needle aphids (Cinara pineti), revealing that the dominant strains matched those found in diseased trees, primarily 16SrXXI-A variants. No known phytoplasma vectors were identified among the 98.62% aphid population sampled. Further transmission trials are planned to elucidate the epidemiology and potential vectors of pine phytoplasma diseases, offering insights for disease management in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Te Henua Enata – The Marquesas Islands
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2021 —
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Scientists have discovered four new species of lithistid demosponges, including one new genus, within submarine caves of volcanic origin in the South Pacific. These sponges were found on basaltic rocks inside lava tubes on Nuku Hiva Island (Marquesas Islands) and Tahiti Iti peninsula (Society Islands), representing the first record of such species from this region. The new species—<em>Microscleroderma miritatarata</em>, <em>Microscleroderma lava</em>, <em>Gastrophanella basaltica</em>, and <em>Levispongia meyeri</em>—were identified using morphological and DNA barcode analyses. The study compares their phylogenetic relationships with other lithistid sponges from the Caribbean and Pacific, highlighting unique skeletal features such as rhizoclone desmas and complex dichotrianes. This discovery expands our understanding of lithistid demosponges' diversity beyond Mediterranean karst caves.
Gunung Mulu National Park
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2021 —
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A new amphibian and ten reptile species have been recorded for the first time in Gunung Mulu National Park (GMNP) or its surrounding areas in Borneo, contributing to the park's remarkable herpetofaunal diversity. Among these, Asthenodipsas jamilinaisi and Garthius chaseni represent new state records for Sarawak, while Cyrtodactylus muluensis extends its known range beyond GMNP. The study also documents the first detailed observation of male-male combat in the genus Dopasia buettikoferi, suggesting that two color morphs may belong to the same species based on genetic analysis. With a total of 108 amphibians and 104 reptiles now documented in GMNP, this research underscores the park's biodiversity and highlights the need for ongoing monitoring to better understand its herpetofaunal composition.
Settlement and Artificial Mummification of the Chinchorro Culture in the Arica and Parinacota Region
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2021 —
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Aymara mobility practices, particularly those involving migration from rural Putre to urban Arica between the 1950s and present, reveal that movement is not merely physical but also deeply symbolic, political, and culturally significant. This study challenges traditional paradigms by demonstrating how Aymara groups construct relational spaces through spatiotemporal dynamics, integrating emotions, memory, and intercultural politics into their mobility experiences. Over five years of ethnographic research, including mobile accompaniment and semi-structured interviews, uncovered that these practices shape the identity and place-making of Indigenous communities in the Arica and Parinacota region. The findings expand the conceptual framework of mobility, highlighting its multifaceted nature beyond physical displacement.
Cathedral, Alcázar and Archivo de Indias in Seville
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2021 —
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A new perspective on Manila’s Chinese community at the turn of the eighteenth century challenges the conventional paradigm of Christian Chinese monopolization of power, revealing instead systemic racism and sadistic crimes against Chinese merchants by Spanish officials. The study, centered on a 1701 judicial case involving Pedro Barredo, exposes the psychological underpinnings of Spain’s discriminatory policies while highlighting the economic contributions of Chinese immigrants. Utilizing unpublished documents from the Archivo General de Indias in Seville and the National Archives of the Philippines, this research fills critical gaps in historical literature on the Chinese Overseas experience in Manila before 1800.
Pre-Hispanic City of Teotihuacan
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2021 —
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A new dual-isotope analysis of human remains from the Tlajinga district in Teotihuacan reveals that nearly half (45%) of its population were migrants, significantly higher than previous estimates. This study, combining strontium and oxygen isotope data from three apartment compounds, suggests migration was most pronounced during the early centuries of occupation but remained consistent throughout the site's history. A notable finding indicates that residents of Tlajinga 33 consumed foods with elevated strontium ratios, likely due to the use of imported lime in food processing, a factor that could influence future isotope-based studies at Teotihuacan.
Historic Centre of Oaxaca and Archaeological Site of Monte Albán
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2021 —
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Research at the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Oaxaca’s Historic Centre and Monte Albán reveals that the transition from chiefdom to early state political organization involved significant shifts in succession rules, moving away from lineal descent toward broader administrative criteria. This transformation is evident in architectural changes between El Mogote (500–300 BC) and El Palenque (300–100 BC), where the emergence of specialized political, religious, and military institutions around 300 BC reshaped social hierarchies and governance structures. The study uses archaeological data to support the hypothesis that such succession-rule changes were pivotal in early state formation.
Western Tien-Shan
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2021 —
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Eleven syntaxa of tall-forb vegetation, including eight associations and three alliances, have been formally validated for the first time. These syntaxa pertain to the class Prangetea ulopterae Klein 1987 and are found in the Pamir-Alai and western Tian Shan Mountains, spanning Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan. Previously published as nomina provisoria, these names are now officially recognized according to the International Code of Phytosociological Nomenclature (ICPN). The research builds on earlier work by Nowak et al. (2020), providing a critical update to the phytosociological classification of this region's tall-forb communities.
W-Arly-Pendjari Complex
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2021 —
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A significant advancement in the conservation of UNESCO World Heritage Sites was achieved through the largest regional initiative to date in the W-Arly-Pendjari Complex, spanning Benin, Burkina Faso, and Niger. Between November 24 and December 8, 2020, satellite collars were successfully placed on 25 elephants and 14 antelopes in Pendjari National Park (Benin) and W National Park (Niger). This innovative monitoring approach aims to bolster the protection of these species, thereby safeguarding the Outstanding Universal Value of the site. The initiative represents a milestone in cross-border conservation efforts within this vast complex.
Fort Jesus, Mombasa
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2021 —
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Toponyms in Mombasa, Kenya, reflect deep linguistic and environmental connections that have evolved over time. This study reveals that the origins of place names in Mombasa's neighborhoods are distinct from those in other Kenyan coastal languages like Kimvit̪a, Kimijikenra, and Kipokomo, yet share similarities with Bantu languages from mainland Kenya. The research demonstrates that historical place names were closely tied to environmental features, while modern names increasingly reference buildings or objects. By analyzing data from elders and comparing it with established linguistic frameworks, the study provides new insights into the semantic diversity of Mombasa's toponyms, offering a fresh perspective on their historical significance and cultural heritage.
Speicherstadt and Kontorhaus District with Chilehaus
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2021 —
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Hamburg's Speicherstadt played a pivotal role in colonial globalisation from 1880 to 2017. This study reveals its deep colonial function as a hub for trade with colonial powers and goods, including human cargo, while also serving as a site of post-colonial memory. Through an analysis of institutions like the Hafen and Handelskammer, corporate entities such as the Woermann-Konzern, and cultural landmarks like the MARKK museum and Tierpark Hagenbeck, the research uncovers Hamburg's entangled history with colonialism. Biographical sketches further illustrate the impact of colonialism on the city and vice versa. The study employs a multi-faceted approach, combining archival research, spatial analysis, and historical narrative to shed light on this complex legacy.
Gorham's Cave Complex
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2021 —
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Neanderthals likely captured choughs (Pyrrhocorax, Corvidae) at night in cave refuges, a behavior supported by fossil evidence and actualistic experiments. The study reveals that Neanderthals exploited these birds systematically for food, facilitated by the birds' year-round use of nocturnal roosting sites and their tendency to flee into cavities when disturbed. Nighttime hunting with fire in caves, rather than daytime open-country pursuit, is proposed as the most plausible method due to the extreme difficulty of daylight captures. This finding sheds light on Neanderthal social, anatomical, technological, and cognitive capacities, challenging assumptions about their hunting strategies.
Kakadu National Park
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2021 —
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A four-year experimental trial in Kakadu National Park found no significant recovery of small and medium-sized native mammals following the exclusion of feral cats, despite their known role as a major threat. The study compared predator-free plots with those allowing cat access, alongside the effects of frequent fire, between 2013 and 2017. While cat predation was expected to suppress populations, results showed no evidence of mammal population recovery in response to exclusion. Additionally, frequent burning appeared to negatively impact native mammal diversity independently of cat presence. These findings suggest that management strategies focusing solely on feral cat suppression may be insufficient for reversing ongoing declines in tropical savanna ecosystems, where fire and introduced herbivores also significantly impede recovery.
Papahānaumokuākea
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2021 —
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A critical analysis of non-commercial fishing practices and policies in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands offers valuable insights for managing the newly expanded Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument (PMNM). The study identifies key cultural, practical, and regulatory aspects of non-commercial fishing that could inform the development of future management plans for the PMNM's Monument Expansion Area (MEA), which prohibits commercial fishing but allows for potential non-commercial activities. By synthesizing existing documents, the research provides a foundation for crafting regulations that balance conservation goals with traditional and recreational fishing practices. This work is essential as the U.S. government prepares to draft regulations in coordination with the Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council and NOAA.
Historical Centre of the City of Arequipa
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2021 —
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A groundbreaking study reveals that the majority of decapitated male heads—trophy trophies—recovered from the Uraca cemetery in pre-Hispanic Arequipa, Peru, were non-local individuals, likely captives from violent intergroup raids or warfare. Using radiogenic isotope analyses (87Sr/86Sr and lead isotopes), researchers determined that 75% of these trophies originated outside the local region, compared to only 20% of non-trophy individuals. The study also found that trophy victims exhibited significantly higher childhood mobility than their non-trophy counterparts, suggesting structured external interactions and violent conflicts in the Majes Valley during the mid-first millennium CE. This challenges previous assumptions about the social identities of these trophies and provides new insights into the motivations behind decapitation practices in Andean societies.
The Slate Landscape of Northwest Wales
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2021 —
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North West Wales' slate landscape reveals a rich history of stoneworking dating back to the third millennium BCE, with significant developments during the Neolithic to Bronze Age periods. The region's early use of glacial boulders and field stones, particularly at Penmaenmawr's stone axe factory, highlights innovative exploitation of local geology. By the Iron Age, advanced quarrying techniques emerged, especially in Anglesey's limestone outcrops, influencing Roman constructions such as forts and early slate roofing. The Early Christian period marked a shift towards funerary stone use, with notable churches appearing by the 12th century. Medieval Welsh Princes' castles and churches became prominent structures, potentially repurposing materials from earlier periods for later Edwardian castle construction. This study synthesizes archaeological evidence to trace the evolution of stoneworking practices across millennia.
Socotra Archipelago
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2021 —
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A recent study has documented four new records of batoid fishes—sharkrays, wedgefishes, and guitarfishes—in the coastal waters of Socotra Archipelago. Among these, <em>Rhynchobatus australiae</em> marks the first verified record for the Arabian region. The research, based on collected specimens and underwater observations, confirms the presence of seven batoid species, all commercially significant in local fisheries. Additionally, it verifies four stingray species through photographic evidence. This study contributes to the understanding of batoid diversity in the north-western Indian Ocean, highlighting the ecological importance of Socotra's marine biodiversity.
Rainforests of the Atsinanana
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2021 —
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A survey of epiphyllous liverworts in Zahamena National Park, Madagascar, identified 28 species, including three previously known only from their type localities and eight endemic to the island or the Indian Ocean. This study significantly expands the documented bryophyte diversity of this globally recognized biodiversity hotspot, which is renowned for its high endemism rates across multiple taxa. Researchers collected specimens during a 2002 expedition, with identifications conducted by experts at the Missouri Botanical Garden and the Hungarian Natural History Museum. The findings highlight the park's ecological importance while underscoring gaps in our understanding of its non-vascular flora.
Amiens Cathedral
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2021 —
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Notre-Dame of Amiens, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, is explored through the lens of its social history. Stephen Murray's work reveals how the cathedral served as a nexus for diverse social groups, shaping and being shaped by their interactions over centuries. The study employs a multidisciplinary approach, weaving together architectural analysis, historical documentation, and sociocultural perspectives to uncover the layered narratives embedded in this UNESCO World Heritage Site. This chronicle not only illuminates Amiens Cathedral's enduring significance but also offers insights into the broader cultural and societal dynamics of medieval Europe.
Amiens Cathedral
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2021 —
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Amiens Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, stands as a testament to the enduring legacy and intricate craftsmanship of medieval church construction. This study delves into the cathedral's architectural evolution, highlighting its innovative design elements that set it apart from other Gothic structures. By analyzing historical records, structural features, and artistic details, researchers have uncovered new insights into the cathedral's construction phases and the cultural context of its creation. The findings emphasize Amiens Cathedral's significance not only as a religious monument but also as a symbol of medieval innovation in architecture and art.
Ancient Villages in Southern Anhui – Xidi and Hongcun
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2021 —
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A groundbreaking micron-thick (3-5 μm) and transparent cladding technique using polyfluorosilicone acrylates has been successfully applied to restore severely eroded brick walls in Hongcun village. This innovative method, utilizing an environment-friendly dimethyl carbonate solution, adheres to the principle of 'repairing old as old,' ensuring minimal visual disruption while providing robust protection against damp, mildew, and weathering. The copolymerized resin, containing dodecafluoroheptyl methacrylate and 3-(trimethoxysilyl)propyl methacrylate, permeates the brick surface to an average depth of 14.5 mm, significantly enhancing water resistance (water contact angle of 133°) and reducing water absorption from 16.1% to 2.8% after 24 hours. This approach offers a long-lasting, efficient solution for the conservation of historic brick structures.
Ancient Thebes with its Necropolis
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2021 —
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During the 25th Dynasty, Nubians in Egypt were not distinct as a separate ethnic group but were instead an integral part of Late Egyptian society. While they exhibited high levels of 'Egyptianization,' evidence from temple, cultic, and funerary contexts at sites like Karnak, Asasif, and Umm el-Qaab reveals their complex cultural identity beyond ancestry. Non-Egyptian names and foreign elements in personal representation suggest visibility as non-Egyptians, but generalized terms like 'the Nubians in Egypt' oversimplify their multifaceted presence. This study challenges the notion of a monolithic Nubian identity, emphasizing individuality and cultural integration.
La Lonja de la Seda de Valencia
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2021 —
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The app Hidden Valencia demonstrates the potential of new technologies, particularly locative media, to bridge historical knowledge and contemporary urban experiences. By leveraging geolocalized maps and narrative guides from the 15th–17th centuries, it invites users to explore the remnants of Valencia's past—such as its public spaces during the Germanías Revolt (1519–1522)—and their connections to modern urban life. Unlike traditional divulgation methods, Hidden Valencia offers an immersive, interactive way to uncover historical layers, emphasizing continuity and rupture in urban development while engaging diverse audiences, including historians, urban planners, and the general public.
Ferrara, City of the Renaissance, and its Po Delta
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2021 —
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Advanced numerical simulations reveal critical seismic vulnerabilities in the San Benedetto Church Complex, a UNESCO-listed site in Ferrara, Italy. The study, focusing on the 15th-century church and its inclined bell tower, demonstrates that structural stiffening combined with non-uniform distribution of resisting capacities can significantly enhance seismic resilience. Two retrofitting interventions—repointing techniques with composites for the church and steel hooping bars for the bell tower—were analyzed using non-linear dynamic analysis, highlighting their effectiveness in mitigating earthquake-induced damage. The research underscores the necessity of such simulations to ensure structural safety, particularly in light of recent seismic events that have compromised occupancy and safety in the region.
Historic Centre of Oporto, Luiz I Bridge and Monastery of Serra do Pilar
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2021 —
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A numerical investigation reveals that bonding carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) to non-cracked metallic plates can significantly extend their fatigue life, offering a promising solution for aging riveted bridges. The study used nonlinear finite element analysis in ABAQUS to simulate the cyclic elasto-plastic behavior and fatigue strain life of puddle iron from the Luiz I Bridge in Porto, Portugal. By modeling debonding failure with a cohesive zone model calibrated through fracture mechanics tests, researchers estimated fatigue crack initiation life using a local approach based on material fatigue strain life. The findings demonstrate that CFRP reinforcement can substantially enhance the fatigue resistance of metallic structural components, even in the absence of pre-existing cracks.
Dazu Rock Carvings
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2021 —
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A critical instability risk has been identified in the South Cliff of Big Buddha Bay, home to Yuanjue Cave—a culturally significant grotto within China's Dazu Rock Carvings. Numerical modeling using FLAC3D software revealed that the western section above a mudstone interlayer is the primary deformation zone, with displacement increasing east-to-west and an independent block showing potential for collapse. Stress concentrations were also found at the cave entrance, the Zhengjue Buddha statue's chest, and beneath erosion-reinforcement areas, particularly under the statue, where stress is most severe. These findings stem from a combination of 3D geological modeling, fissure analysis, indoor tests, and monitoring data comparison, offering actionable insights for stability assessment and preservation efforts.
Historical Monuments at Makli, Thatta
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2021 —
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A numerical analysis using Plaxis 2D reveals that secant piles can significantly reduce the settlement of the Tomb of Jam Nizam-al-Din Samoo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site at Makli, Thatta. The study found that installing secant piles of 12 meters effectively mitigates slope degradation-induced subsidence, offering an economical alternative to retaining walls. Additionally, soil nails installed on the eastern side of the slope improved its Factor of Safety (FOS), reducing the risk of failure and potential tilting or collapse of the tomb. The FOS decreased from 1.36 to 1.10 as the slope angle increased from 45° to 35°, highlighting the critical role of structural interventions in preserving heritage structures on unstable terrains.
Aqaba Marine Reserve
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2021 —
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Aqaba Marine Reserve's tropical seagrass, Halophila stipulacea, exhibits contrasting responses to nutrient enrichment based on its historical exposure to eutrophication. While populations from oligotrophic South Beach (SB) showed signs of stress—such as reduced biomass, leaf area index (LAI), and internodal distances—those from eutrophic North Beach (NB) thrived with additional nutrients during an unusually warm summer. The study highlights the species' resilience but underscores that prior nutrient exposure significantly influences its response to further enrichment. Key indicators for detecting stress in H. stipulacea include carbohydrate reserves, LAI, internodal length, and apical shoot occurrence. This research emphasizes the importance of monitoring these traits to mitigate impacts on seagrass ecosystems under changing environmental conditions.
Serra da Capivara National Park
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2021 —
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A groundbreaking qualitative study reveals the profound and lasting impact of Dr. Niède Guidon on Serra da Capivara National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Brazil's semi-arid region. Through interviews with 50 park guides, researchers found that 80% recognize her pivotal role in establishing the park and fostering regional development. Her initiatives, including the implementation of educational programs on environmental awareness and solid waste management, as well as continuous training for guides since 1993, have created a self-sustainable model that aligns with ecotourism, archaeological tourism, and geopark principles. This study highlights how Guidon's efforts have transformed the park into a global example of sustainable management, benefiting both conservation goals and local communities.
Cerrado Protected Areas: Chapada dos Veadeiros and Emas National Parks
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2021 —
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UNESCO World Heritage designations serve as symbolic shields for biodiversity conservation, offering political protection against environmental degradation. A study focusing on the Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park (PNCV) in Brazil's Cerrado bioma reveals that while these titles provide significant symbolic value and deter harmful actions due to their official status, their effectiveness is limited by dependency on national policies and societal engagement. The research examines PNCV's characteristics, its historical changes from 1961 to 2017, and compares it with other World Heritage sites, including cases in Australia and Brazil. It concludes that, despite their potential, these mechanisms often face skepticism and require active support from both governments and society to be truly effective.
Gordion
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2021 —
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Very high-resolution (VHR) stereo satellite images can detect sub-metre level physical changes on Gordion tumuli, as demonstrated by this study. Using WorldView-3 and KOMPSAT-3 data, researchers generated point cloud datasets with vertical accuracies of 0.16 m and 0.53 m root mean square error (RMSE), respectively. Digital surface models (DSMs) derived from these images were also compared to reference DSMs from Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) images, yielding average RMSE values of 0.28 m for WorldView-3 and 0.57 m for KOMPSAT-3. These findings highlight the potential of VHR stereo satellite imagery for monitoring and analyzing physical changes on archaeological sites with high precision.
Kalwaria Zebrzydowska: the Mannerist Architectural and Park Landscape Complex and Pilgrimage Park
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2021 —
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A previously undocumented series of 37 Marian-themed paintings, depicting Mary and symbolic objects such as hearts, buildings, and gardens, has been identified within the Chapel of Our Lady's Tomb at Kalwaria Zebrzydowska. These late-Renaissance works, located on the choir parapet and galleries, have never been referenced in existing literature, guidebooks, or maintenance records. The study analyzes their symbolism in a broader context, offering new insights into the reception of graphics in Polish 17th-century painting. This discovery enriches our understanding of the architectural and artistic landscape of this UNESCO-listed site.
Astronomical Observatories of Kazan Federal University
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2021 —
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A new cycle of meteor observations at Kazan Federal University (KFU) has revealed significant insights into meteor shower patterns and characteristics. Using the SKiYMET radar, researchers detected a substantial increase in meteor registrations by processing weaker signals with a lower signal-to-noise ratio. The study analyzed seasonal and daily dependencies of meteor activity from 2016 to 2019, as well as the distribution of meteor entry speeds and their variations across seasons and altitudes. Additionally, the research developed a method to determine the coordinates of meteor shower radiants in the equatorial coordinate system, providing precise observations for several prominent showers, including the Geminids, Eta Aquariids, Arietids, April Lyrids, and others. These findings enhance our understanding of meteor behavior and contribute valuable data for astronomical studies.
Old Town of Segovia and its Aqueduct
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2021 —
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A novel analysis of the Roman Segovia Aqueduct (ca. 100 AD) reveals insights into its construction techniques, particularly regarding hoisting and scaffolding methods. The study highlights the use of simple holes in the granite structure, which served as work platforms rather than storage for blocks. By comparing these features with other Roman scaffolds, researchers propose a lightweight scaffolding system that prioritized ergonomics and safe block wedging at high altitudes. The findings, supported by photographs and illustrations of construction phases, challenge previous assumptions about Roman engineering practices and underscore the role of skilled labor in this masterpiece's design.
Xanthos-Letoon
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2021 —
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A new analysis of the Xanthos trilingual reveals that Trbbẽnimi and Xerẽi were likely allies, not enemies, of the inscription's author. The study also identifies Herikle as a governor connected to the Persian king. Key linguistic insights include interpretations of terms like 'hãtahe' (victory), 'tupelija' (script/writing), and 'hbãt' (hoplite). The research examines the syntactic structure of TL 44a, 41-55, focusing on military terminology and Lycian language specifics. This work provides fresh historical implications for understanding alliances and governance in ancient Lycia.
Heart of Neolithic Orkney
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A groundbreaking feasibility study successfully extracted archaeointensity data from Neolithic Grooved Ware pottery at the Ness of Brodgar, Orkney, marking the first such measurements for the UK. Three reliable archaeointensity values (35–40 μT) were obtained using the thermal Thellier method, aligning with regional geomagnetic models and limited existing data. The study categorized results into four types to assess factors influencing successful data extraction, demonstrating the potential of ceramics as a source for archaeointensity dating in Britain. This breakthrough enhances our understanding of geomagnetic secular variation during the Neolithic period, addressing a critical gap in UK archaeological research.
Rabat, Modern Capital and Historic City: a Shared Heritage
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A study on the River Bouregreg in Rabat, Morocco, reveals widespread contamination by endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) and pharmaceuticals. These pollutants, originating from municipal and industrial wastewater as well as agricultural runoff, were detected at all five sampling sites along the river, with the highest concentrations found near its mouth—up to 368 ng/L for EDCs like bisphenol A and estrone. Pharmaceuticals, including anti-inflammatory/analgesic drugs (detected in 80% of samples), antibiotics, and anti-epileptics, were also prevalent. The research used continuous solid-phase extraction and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry to analyze 27 compounds, highlighting the river's vulnerability due to reliance on surface water for drinking supply. Principal component analysis linked contamination patterns to water physico-chemical properties, underscoring the need for targeted pollution control in this UNESCO-listed urban landscape.
Ningaloo Coast
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A significant discovery regarding the Ningaloo Niño reveals that this interannual warming event in the southeast Indian Ocean (SEIO) induces substantial sea surface salinity (SSS) freshening of 0.15–0.20 practical salinity units (psu) during its warm phase, primarily driven by increased local precipitation (~68%) and enhanced freshwater transport from the Indonesian Throughflow (ITF; ~28%). This SSS freshening, particularly pronounced near Western Australia, shows a stronger correlation with El Niño–Southern Oscillation indices than sea surface temperature. The study employed observational data analysis and eddy-resolving regional ocean model simulations to elucidate these processes, while an idealized model experiment demonstrated that salinity has minimal feedback effects on the warming of Ningaloo Niño.
Península Valdés
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A significant increase in southern right whale mortality rates following El Niño events has been identified, posing a threat to the recovery of their population at Península Valdés, Argentina. Modeling suggests that more frequent and intense El Niño events could hinder population growth or even lead to decline, potentially disrupting food-web interactions in the Southern Ocean (SO) and weakening its role in global climate change mitigation. The study analyzed photo-identified whales, linking ocean warming and El Niño intensity to adverse impacts on whale survival.
Archaeological Areas of Pompei, Herculaneum and Torre Annunziata
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A multi-analytical approach revealed that the ochre-based pigments in the tablinum of Herculaneum's House of the Bicentenary underwent thermal alteration during Mount Vesuvius' eruption, transforming yellow ochres to red. This study successfully discriminated between original and converted pigments, providing insights into Roman decorative technologies. The research also highlighted the use of various ochre qualities and mixtures with other compounds, driven by aesthetic, functional, and economic considerations.
Borobudur Temple Compounds
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A novel analysis of Borobudur Temple's base reliefs reveals the diversity and intricacies of Old Javanese seating equipment and accessories, offering a unique glimpse into socio-cultural practices during the 9th century. The study identifies distinct types of seating—ranging from knee-height to ground-level designs—and their associated accessories, such as knee straps, backrests, and seat cushions, which were categorized as either personal or communal with wide seats. By examining the karmawibangga story panel in Borobudur's kamadhatu section, researchers leveraged the temple's precise proportions to analyze these elements, providing a foundation for innovative product design inspired by Old Javanese culture. This approach combines art historical interpretation with functional analysis, bridging ancient craftsmanship and modern applications.
Archaeological Site of Olympia
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A groundbreaking initiative at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Olympia leverages digital technology to recontextualize and publish long-overlooked archaeological data. The project, utilizing iDAI.field 2.0, integrates disparate historical records—including site notebooks, handwritten reports, sketches, and registers—from early excavations (1875–1881) of the treasuries at Olympia. By digitizing these fragmented datasets, researchers aim to reconstruct archaeological contexts and associated finds, making them accessible online for the first time. This approach not only preserves and interprets previously unpublished findings but also sets a new standard for retrospective digital archaeology, bridging gaps in historical documentation with modern analytical tools.
Olympic National Park
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2021 —
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A comprehensive vegetation classification and mapping project for Olympic National Park reveals that coniferous forests, dominated by silver fir (Abies amabilis), cover four-fifths of the park, with upper montane and subalpine forests surrounding Mount Olympus. Wet lowland forests occupy 14% of the park, primarily on the west side, while drier lowland forests are found on the north and east sides. Broadleaf and mixed forests, shrub-dominated vegetation, and herbaceous vegetation each cover less than 5%. The study used an inductive modeling approach with random forests machine learning, incorporating data from plots collected between 2005 and 2019, satellite imagery, lidar data, elevation models, and climate normals. The resulting map includes 43 natural vegetated classes, seven mostly unvegetated natural classes, and four classes representing burned areas or anthropogenic disturbance.
Tarnowskie Góry Lead-Silver-Zinc Mine and its Underground Water Management System
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2021 —
WHE126D2E6F25
A significant increase in lead (Pb) emissions, particularly from zinc smelters, has been identified as a major environmental concern, especially in the Silesian-Krakow region. This study reveals that lead's strong affinity for sulfur leads to its primary occurrence as galena (PbS), while secondary forms like cerusite (PbCO3) or synthetic compounds pose higher toxicity risks to living organisms. The research highlights the historical and ongoing impact of industrial activities, particularly in the 19th and early 20th centuries, on environmental contamination by heavy metals, with lead being a notable pollutant due to its widespread use in batteries, alloys, paints, and gasoline additives. Emission data from Europe (1955–2010) underscores the region's role as a global hotspot for lead pollution, linked to zinc production and metal smelting. The study combines geochemical analysis with historical industrial records to quantify emissions and assess their ecological and health consequences.
Architectural Ensemble of the Trinity Sergius Lavra in Sergiev Posad
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2021 —
WHE679A380305
A linguistic analysis of the 'Torment of Paraskeva Friday' from the 15th-century manuscript Festal Menaion and Chrysostom (Tikhonravov No. 185) challenges the long-held notion of a 'second South Slavic influence' in Church Slavonic language during this period. The study reveals that colloquial elements in this text are more closely aligned with common Russian language features, rather than South Slavic influences. By comparing this text with others from the Great Menaion Reader and the Trinity Lavra collection, the research redefines Church Slavonic as an unidentified linguistic object inseparable from its textual context. This work employs traditional philological tools to evaluate the functional correlation of Church Slavonic language, providing new insights into its structure and historical development.
Western Tien-Shan
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2021 —
WHE45F0A8D7BE
Western Tien-Shan (Tanirtau) stands out as the most floristically diverse mountain ecosystem in Kazakhstan, with a generic coefficient of 4.12 indicating its unique and autonomous flora. This study identifies the leading dendroflora families in the region, analyzing tree and shrub species across natural, anthropogenic, and urbanized ecosystems. The research aims to inventory species composition, compile floral spectra, and pinpoint dominant families, contributing critical insights into the biodiversity of this UNESCO-recognized area. Despite its ecological significance, a comprehensive dendroglaciological report remains missing, highlighting gaps in understanding the region's complex interactions between flora and climate.
Mount Wuyi
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2021 —
WHE53DDC6A36F
The Great Tea Route, originating from Mount Wuyi—a pivotal tea production region in Southeastern China—emerged as a significant transnational trade corridor linking China with Mongolia and Russia. Unlike the Silk Road, which facilitated silk trade, this route centered on tea, extending its influence temporally and spatially while connecting China to its northern neighbors. Conducted by prominent merchants from Shanxi province, it traversed eight Chinese provinces and multiple cities before reaching Kyakhta in Russia, where goods were transferred to European destinations. The study examines the historical background, driving factors, and challenges that shaped this route's formation, development, and eventual decline.
