Ancient Jericho/Tell es-Sultan
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2016 —
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A significant cache of non-professional archaeological documentation from the second British campaign at Tell es-Sultan (ancient Jericho) has been digitized and made accessible, offering new insights into one of the most renowned excavations led by Kathleen Kenyon between 1952 and 1958. The 'Jericho-off-the-Record' project, an extension of the Non-Professional Archaeological Photographs (NPAPH) initiative, has gathered visual, written, and oral records that were previously overlooked or not stored in official archives. This includes photographs, slides, films, and personal accounts from both non-professional participants and archaeological staff, providing a richer context for understanding the excavation's methods, findings, and historical significance. The initial data deposit is now available through EASY, the online archiving system of DANS, marking a valuable addition to archaeological research on ancient Jericho.
Rock Art of Alta
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2016 —
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The Rock Art of Alta reveals a profound connection between ancient Arctic communities and the natural world. Knut Helskog's work demonstrates that these petroglyphs, spanning over 4,000 years, depict not only animals and humans but also spiritual interactions with beings from the natural environment. The research integrates archaeological, ethnographic, and historical perspectives to interpret the art as a form of communication with the world of beings, challenging traditional views on its purpose. By analyzing motifs, distribution, and contextual evidence, Helskog provides insights into the cosmological beliefs and social structures of past societies in Alta, Norway.
Fray Bentos Industrial Landscape
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2016 —
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A smart city paradigm applied to the UNESCO-listed Fray Bentos Industrial Landscape demonstrates how digital palimpsests can integrate cultural heritage with technological innovation. The study, part of a four-year strategic action plan, challenges traditional urban-rural dichotomies by treating territory as an integral cultural landscape. It employs social-based technological applications to explore smart city concepts, focusing on sustainable development and heritage preservation. Initial results highlight the potential for digital tools to enhance territorial studies while maintaining historical integrity.
Historic Centre of Morelia
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2016 —
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Residents' perceptions reveal key factors contributing to the depopulation of Morelia's historic center, despite its UNESCO World Heritage status. The study found that local urban development programs have largely overlooked resident opinions, leading to a decline in population due to unaddressed urban challenges. By analyzing residents' views on their permanence in the area, researchers identified critical issues that hinder demographic recovery. This insight suggests that integrating community perspectives into urban planning strategies could mitigate depopulation and foster sustainable development in historic centers.
Lake Baikal
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2016 —
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Lake Baikal, one of the world's oldest and deepest lakes, has exhibited significant physical and biological changes associated with warming over the past 26 years. Surface waters warmed by 2.0 °C lake-wide, leading to a marked increase in warm-water zooplankton species such as Cyclops kolensis (12-fold) and pelagic cladocerans (twofold), particularly in the north basin. In contrast, the cold-water endemic copepod Epischura baikalensis showed no change in abundance. While chlorophyll concentrations rose by 46% lake-wide, this increase was significant only in the south basin. Surprisingly, Secchi transparency deepened by 1.4 meters across the lake, suggesting a decline in productivity in the north and middle basins but an increase in the south. These findings indicate that Lake Baikal is experiencing warming-related changes without widespread pelagic eutrophication.
Sagarmatha National Park
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2016 —
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Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Himalayas of eastern Nepal, has experienced significant land use and land cover (LULC) changes between 1992 and 2011. Satellite imagery analysis revealed that above 6000 meters, snow and ice coverage decreased, leading to an expansion of glacial lakes and barren areas. Below 6000 meters, forest and farmland diminished while grazing, settlement, and shrubland expanded, indicating severe land degradation. Sociological data from interviews and workshops showed that local perceptions often missed slower changes detectable via satellite imagery. Rapid economic development, tourism pressure, civil war, and limited protected area management were identified as key drivers of these changes, particularly below 6000 meters. While global factors like climate change cannot be locally mitigated, improved management practices could address local drivers to support conservation and sustainable development in this high-altitude ecosystem.
The Grand Canal
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2016 —
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A novel approach to urban planning, termed 'landsenses ecology,' integrates human sensory experiences into ecological design. This study demonstrates its application for the Xianghe Segment of China's Grand Canal (XSCGC), addressing challenges in incorporating residents' sensory data—sight, hearing, taste, smell, and touch—into sustainable development. By leveraging mixed-marching data and IoT technologies, the research bridges traditional urban planning gaps, which often overlook environmental quality and human welfare. The framework aims to enhance ecological planning by systematically analyzing both natural and human factors, offering a blueprint for future urban forms that prioritize sensory-rich environments.
Archaeological Site of Delphi
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2016 —
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Research at the Kastrouli settlement in Delphi, Greece, reveals that this archaeological site was initially occupied during the Late Helladic period and subsequently reused across multiple historical phases, including the Middle Geometric, Early Archaic, and Classical periods. This discovery was made through a combination of optical luminescence dating (OSL) on ceramic samples and radiocarbon (C-14) dating of a bone sample, providing a preliminary but significant timeline for the site's occupation. The study highlights the site's continuous relevance in different historical contexts, offering new insights into the long-term use and significance of Delphi as a cultural and archaeological landscape.
Su Nuraxi di Barumini
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2016 —
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A recent analysis of pottery from Su Nuraxi di Barumini, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sardinia, reveals significant insights into the site's occupation during the Iron Age (Nuragico II phase) and its later Punic-Roman use. The study identifies characteristic ceramic vessels from the 8th century BCE, aligning with known patterns in central-southern Sardinia, while also uncovering sparse but crucial evidence of activity between the 5th and 3rd centuries BCE during the Punic period. This suggests continued habitation or visitation post-Iron Age, challenging earlier assumptions about the site's abandonment. The research employs comparative contextual analysis with other regional sites to classify pottery types and reconstruct chronological narratives, offering a nuanced understanding of Su Nuraxi's layered history.
Bourges Cathedral
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2016 —
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A groundbreaking study of Bourges Cathedral reveals that iron armatures, integral to its Gothic architecture, were not part of the original design but were introduced mid-construction to address structural instability. Analysis of 70 iron samples and 58 lead sealings, combined with archaeological observations from 2010–2011, demonstrates these reinforcements—including truss rods and chains in the triforium—were contemporary with the cathedral's early thirteenth-century construction but implemented reactively to stabilize an unfinished structure. This challenges long-held assumptions about medieval engineering practices and positions Bourges as a pivotal case study in the evolution of iron integration in Gothic masonry, highlighting a phase of experimental adaptation during its formative years.
Kunya-Urgench
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2016 —
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A critical reassessment of the 'Turabeg Khanom' Mausoleum in Kunya-Urgench challenges its traditional attribution, questioning whether it predates or aligns with known Timurid architectural styles. The study, led by Lisa Golombek, a renowned expert on Timurid architecture, examines the mausoleum's exceptional tilework and mosaic quality to evaluate its historical placement. By analyzing stylistic elements and comparing them to other documented structures, the research aims to clarify the mausoleum's origins and significance within Central Asian architectural history.
Sacred Mijikenda Kaya Forests
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2016 —
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Kenya's Sacred Mijikenda Kaya Forests, recognized for their high biodiversity and traditional conservation, were inscribed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites following a decade-long process initiated by the Kenya State Party. The study highlights the unique role of these forests in preserving cultural identity and natural heritage, with local communities successfully protecting them from encroachment for most of the 20th century without state involvement. Legal gazettement in 1992 marked a pivotal step, leading to their inclusion on the UNESCO candidate list in 1999. The paper meticulously documents this 'long journey,' offering firsthand insights into the nomination process and the criteria that underscored their outstanding universal value.
Putorana Plateau
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2016 —
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A comprehensive updated checklist of liverworts from the Putorana Plateau, East Siberia, reveals 118 species, with 47 recorded for the first time. Notable discoveries include Odontoschisma francisci and Saccobasis polymorpha, which exhibit amphi-oceanic distribution patterns, along with other rare taxa like Endogemma caespiticia and Marchantia romanica. The study confirms the plateau's Hemiarctic flora while debunking 26 previously reported species that could not be re-verified. This research synthesizes recent collections with historical data to refine our understanding of this unique Arctic ecosystem.
Škocjan Caves
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2016 —
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A five-year study at Škocjan Caves, Slovenia, reveals that prolonged exposure to radon radiation and other microclimatic factors—such as temperature, humidity, and air flow—can induce physiological changes in cave workers. The research, conducted by the Institute for Occupational Safety, Ljubljana, combines continuous radon monitoring with precise tracking of staff time spent underground, enabling accurate estimation of annual radiation doses. To mitigate health risks, the study implements regular medical surveys, including blood tests, as mandated by national regulations. These measures aim to prevent potential health issues while providing insights into the broader impacts of cave microclimates on human physiology.
Historic Centre of Siena
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2016 —
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A groundbreaking urban planning solution implemented in Siena, Italy, in 1965 demonstrated the feasibility and benefits of pedestrian zones in historic medieval towns. This initiative, the first of its kind, successfully addressed traffic congestion without resorting to the construction of urban motorways or the demolition of ancient buildings, which would have irreparably damaged several historic centres. The approach set a precedent for other towns, preventing further urban decay and preserving the architectural integrity of medieval townscapes. The study highlights the long-term impact of proactive traffic management in safeguarding cultural heritage.
Choirokoitia
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2016 —
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A novel methodology for locale-scale monitoring of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, demonstrated at Choirokoitia in Cyprus, integrates multiple geospatial techniques to assess ground stability and deformation risks. The study combines radar interferometry (InSAR) with field measurements—including static GNSS, total station surveys, leveling, laser scanning, and UAV data—to validate and refine satellite-derived motion data. By systematically comparing in-situ observations with Persistent Scatterer Interferometry results over two decades, the research aims to identify micro-movements and geohazards threatening archaeological remains. Additionally, it uses archival and current optical satellite images to calibrate risk assessments and urban expansion analyses, providing ground truth for land-use change classification. This approach offers a robust framework for monitoring cultural heritage sites vulnerable to geological instability.
Messel Pit Fossil Site
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2016 —
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This study reveals the exceptional preservation of osteocyte-like and blood vessel-like microstructures within fossilized bones from Eocene vertebrates at the UNESCO World Heritage Site Messel Pit, Germany. These microstructures, identified in turtles, crocodiles, and a pangolin, exhibit distinct chemical and physical characteristics, including a thin layer with mottled texture and striations, as well as microbial troughs on their surfaces. Iron (Fe) was notably abundant in these structures but absent from the bone matrix or collagen fibril-like microstructures. The findings suggest that soft-tissue elements, at least in their physical form, can be preserved in Messel fossils, paving the way for future investigations into biomolecule preservation, such as proteins or DNA.
Archaeological Site of Cyrene
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2016 —
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An archaeological survey in eastern Cyrenaica, Libya, has uncovered significant new evidence of human occupation dating back to the Paleolithic and Neolithic periods. The study, conducted jointly by a research mission and the Department of Antiquities of Libya, identified multiple coastal sites—including Phykous, El Ougla, and Ras Etteen—along with underwater areas between Ras Hamama and Ras Etteen. Among the discoveries were surface sites from the Lower Paleolithic to Neolithic eras, alongside known Roman sites. A substantial collection of lithic artifacts and impressed pottery was also gathered, providing insights into ancient technological practices and cultural evolution in the region.
Summer Palace, an Imperial Garden in Beijing
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2016 —
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A novel Multi-Temporal Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (MTInSAR) technique revealed that the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Summer Palace in Beijing, remains largely stable but faces localized risks. The study identified mm/cm-level instabilities in Longevity Hill's ruins and monuments, likely due to human activities and natural decay. Subsidence near East and South Gates was linked to urbanization, while groundwater variations and over-tourism contributed to instability along Kunming Lakeside. This advanced approach, combining Persistent Scatterers (PSs) and Distributed Scatterers (DSs), offers a high-precision tool for early risk detection and preventive conservation of cultural heritage sites.
Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump
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2016 —
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Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump (HSIBJ) employs proprioceptive emplacement to immerse visitors within a heritage landscape that intertwines Blackfoot and settler-colonial narratives. The Interpretive Centre uses motion-triggered projections to anchor visitors in official national heritage narratives, confirming their subjectivity through physiological awareness of body position and movement. This proprioceptive grounding places visitors within an 'ancient' narratology of nation, addressing settler anxieties about latecoming status while reinforcing broader archaeological and heritage frameworks.
Putorana Plateau
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2016 —
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A study of cisco (Coregonidae: Coregonus sp.) from Lake Sobachye on the Putorana Plateau reveals that this population is genetically and morphologically closer to European vendace (C. albula) than to other regional cisco species, such as those found in the River Pyasina. The research combined morphological analysis of 60 specimens with mitochondrial DNA sequencing of two gene fragments (ND1 and COI) from nine individuals, demonstrating minimal genetic divergence between Lake Sobachye cisco and vendace. This finding challenges previous taxonomic assumptions based solely on vertebral counts and highlights the importance of integrated morphological and molecular approaches in fish species identification.
Mount Athos
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2016 —
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Mount Athos stands as a pivotal pillar of Orthodox Christianity and Byzantine history. Its monastic communities, established early on, wielded significant spiritual, political, and economic influence that extended beyond the Byzantine Empire's borders. The site's archives and libraries preserve an unparalleled body of Byzantine documentation, art, and archaeology, offering invaluable insights into a lost era. This volume, derived from the 28th Spring Symposium of Byzantine Studies, synthesizes international research on Athos, exploring diverse aspects such as asceticism, authority, economy, spirituality, and more. Through meticulous investigation of its archives and artifacts, scholars have uncovered substantial evidence that illuminates the complex phenomenon of Byzantine monasticism, providing a comprehensive view of this influential institution's role in shaping Orthodox Christianity.
Wulingyuan Scenic and Historic Interest Area
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2016 —
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Shared management among multiple agencies at heritage sites, while common in China, often leads to inefficiencies and inconsistencies. A study on the Wulingyuan Scenic and Historic Interest Area reveals that the current grid management system results in inefficient use of human and financial resources, as well as inconsistent application of management measures due to the lack of an effective coordination agency and collaboration mechanism. The research, based on semi-structured interviews with management staff, proposes a multi-agency management model that emphasizes the roles of a coordination agency and a robust collaboration framework to enhance management efficiency. This study highlights the need for improved coordination and collaboration in multi-agency management contexts to optimize heritage tourism management.
Sun Temple, Konârak
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2016 —
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A multi-disciplinary investigation reveals the likely presence of a palaeo-channel near the 13th-century Konark Sun Temple, Odisha, India, supporting historical accounts of the mythical River Chandrabhaga. Using remote sensing data (Landsat, ASTER Terra Look, and SRTM images), thematic mapping, GIS analysis, and ground-penetrating radar (GPR), researchers delineated a probable palaeo-channel extending north of the temple, parallel to the coast. This finding aligns with ancient literature describing Chandrabhaga as a river flowing near Konark, now absent from the region. The study combines geological, geophysical, and historical evidence, offering new insights into the temple's historical context and the fate of this legendary river.
City of Valletta
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2016 —
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Heritage is not inherently valuable but can be actively shaped to contribute to urban regeneration. This study examines the City Gate project in Valletta, demonstrating how built environments and historical narratives can be strategically treated to achieve contemporary regeneration goals. By analyzing multiple approaches—preservation, adaptation, and reinterpretation—the research reveals that heritage's role in regeneration is dynamic rather than static. The findings highlight the importance of intentional interventions in transforming historical assets into tools for urban revitalization.
Taj Mahal
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2016 —
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Open municipal solid waste (MSW) burning contributes significantly more to the discoloration of the Taj Mahal's white marble surface compared to dung cake burning, depositing approximately 150 mg/m²/year of PM2.5 versus just 12 mg/m²/year from dung cakes. This finding challenges previous assumptions that dung cake burning was the primary culprit and highlights MSW burning as a major source of particulate matter (PM) soiling. The study used spatially detailed emission estimates and air quality modeling to quantify these contributions, revealing that combined emissions from both sources lead to an estimated 713 premature mortalities annually in Agra, disproportionately affecting socioeconomically disadvantaged neighborhoods. Effective MSW management could mitigate the Taj Mahal's discoloration, improve public health, and yield broader aesthetic benefits.
Murujuga Cultural Landscape
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2016 —
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Research at Murujuga, a UNESCO-listed cultural landscape in northwestern Australia, reveals the transition of arid hunter-gatherers to coastal foragers during the early Holocene. The study provides evidence for Australia's earliest domestic stone structures, dated between 8063 and 7355 cal BP, on Rosemary Island, challenging assumptions about island abandonment and recolonization. By integrating a 47,000-year occupation sequence from the Pilbara region with predictive models of sea-level rise, the research offers insights into how mobile arid hunter-fisher-gatherers adapted to changing seascape dynamics. This work not only advances our understanding of human adaptation in coastal environments but also contributes to the broader narrative of insular abandonment and resilience.
Rock Drawings in Valcamonica
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2016 —
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A groundbreaking immersive virtual tour of the Great Rock (NAQ1) in Valcamonica's Naquane National Park reveals unprecedented insights into prehistoric rock engravings. This innovative approach combines contact-tracing with ultra-high-resolution photo mosaics, enabling precise digital documentation and interactive exploration of 2028 engraved figures spanning 65 square meters. The study addresses longstanding challenges in rock art research by leveraging photogrammetry and photometric stereo techniques to create a detailed 3D model, overcoming limitations of traditional recording methods. This immersive tool not only facilitates scientific analysis but also promotes global appreciation of one of the world's richest archaeological sites.
Greater Blue Mountains Area
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2016 —
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A significant decline in domestic per-capita nature tourism visitation was observed in Australia and the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area from 1998 to 2012, challenging assumptions about the growth of this sector. The study compared visitation trends with population growth, revealing that while nature-based tourism remains economically vital, its per capita decline poses risks for biodiversity conservation and local economies. Strategies to boost visitation, particularly targeting children to foster long-term environmentally responsible behavior, are recommended as critical for sustaining park survival and political support.
Pont du Gard (Roman Aqueduct)
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2016 —
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Nemausus, originally a Celtic settlement and later a significant Roman city in Gallia Narbonensis (modern Nîmes), emerged as a rival to Narbo, becoming one of the most successful urban centers in Roman Gaul. By 28 BCE, it was established as a *colonia Latina, hosting an important mint and expanding its walls to enclose approximately 220 hectares. The city's prominence is underscored by its architectural marvels, including an amphitheater, a precinct dedicated to Deus Nemausus, and the iconic Maison Carrée temple, later dedicated to Julius Caesar. Additionally, the Pont-du-Gard aqueduct, part of its extensive water infrastructure, stands as a testament to Roman engineering. Nemausus produced notable figures, including ancestors of Emperor Antoninus Pius, reflecting its enduring cultural and economic influence.
Monte San Giorgio
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2016 —
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Paleontologists have uncovered two new species of holostean fish, Ticinolepis longaeva and T. crassidens, from the Middle Triassic carbonate platform deposits of Monte San Giorgio in Switzerland. These findings provide critical insights into the evolutionary history of neopterygian fishes, revealing a mosaic of halecomorph and ginglymodian traits that suggest these species represent basal holosteans. The study highlights distinct habitat partitioning between the two species, with T. longaeva adapting to more restricted environments while T. crassidens exhibited anatomical adaptations indicative of a durophagous diet. Additionally, the research documents intraspecific variation and ontogenetic changes in T. longaeva, offering a nuanced understanding of its ecological adaptability over time.
Jodrell Bank Observatory
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2016 —
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Research at Jodrell Bank Observatory reveals that young glitching pulsars, including PSR B1800-21 and PSR B1823-13, exhibit long-term braking indices (n ≤ 2), suggesting they may be older than previously estimated. This challenges established evolutionary models by introducing a new trend in the P-P' diagram. The study employed a glitch-template method to mitigate timing noise and post-glitch recovery effects, enabling precise measurements for five pulsars, including updated data for Vela. Short-term inter-glitch braking indices (n_ig > 10) were also observed, indicating possible short-term re-coupling and long-term decoupling of superfluid dynamics in these stars. This work sheds light on the complex spin evolution of glitching pulsars and their potential connection to supernova remnants.
Shark Bay, Western Australia
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2016 —
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A recent intensive field program at Shark Bay, Western Australia, has revealed that coccoid cyanobacteria, not filamentous ones, dominate the microbial mats forming lithified stromatolite buildups, contradicting traditional views. This discovery was enabled by multi-scale mapping and molecular studies, which identified eight distinct 'Stromatolite Provinces' with unique geographic distributions of stromatolite structures. Additionally, analysis of internal fabrics showed pervasive microcrystalline carbonate precipitation in microbial mats, suggesting parallels with Precambrian stromatolites. These findings advance our understanding of benthic ecosystems on early Earth and provide a foundation for further studies on stromatolite morphogenesis.
Sangha Trinational
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2016 —
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Nocturnal transects significantly outperform diurnal ones for monitoring duiker populations in hunted forests, yielding higher encounter rates and more accurate density estimates. A study in the Dzanga-Sangha Protected Areas (APDS), Central African Republic, found blue duikers at densities of 58.6 per km²—among the highest reported in western and central Africa—despite hunting pressure. Researchers used DISTANCE software to analyze data from 135 km diurnal and 150 km nocturnal transects, demonstrating that nocturnal surveys are critical for adaptive management in such ecosystems. This work provides vital baseline data for the Sangha Trinational Landscape (UNESCO World Heritage Site) and underscores the importance of nighttime monitoring in hunted forests.
Chiribiquete National Park – “The Maloca of the Jaguar”
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2016 —
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Researchers have identified a new species of sword-nose bat (Lonchorhina) within the Chiribiquete National Park, Colombia, distinguished by its exceptionally large noseleaf (>41.5 mm) and tragus (>22.3 mm), surpassing all known phyllostomid bats. This discovery, based on phenetic analysis of 105 specimens representing five recognized species, highlights the genus's underappreciated diversity. The new taxon, closely related to <em>L. mairkellei</em> and <em>L. inusitata</em>, exhibits a larger skull (GSL mean = 27.31 mm) and more robust dentition. Collected from an inselberg near Rio Mesay, the species honors the Karijona people of Chiribiquete, where ancient Amazon pictograms depict bats, underscoring its cultural significance in this biodiverse yet unexplored region.
Malpelo Fauna and Flora Sanctuary
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2016 —
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A decade-long study (2001–2010) of marine mammal sightings around Malpelo Island and its continental waters reveals that the bottlenose dolphin (<em>Tursiops truncatus</em>) is the most consistently abundant species, with stable encounter rates year-round. The research, combining data from four sources, identified seven species near the island—with peak richness in October–November—and 13 during cruises, where humpback whales (<em>Megaptera novaeangliae</em>) dominated (March–April). Humpbacks were seasonally linked to Malpelo, suggesting reproductive use. The study also found species associations with distinct water zones: <em>M. novaeangliae</em> near the continental shelf, <em>D. delphis</em> in intermediate waters, and <em>T. truncatus</em> across both, indicating overlapping populations. This work advances knowledge of marine mammal distribution in Colombian waters, highlighting Malpelo’s ecological significance.
Margravial Opera House Bayreuth
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2016 —
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Court opera, exemplified by the mid-eighteenth-century Margravial Opera House in Bayreuth, functions as a social showcase and ritualistic communication tool. This study reveals how Wilhelmina of Bayreuth and her husband Frederick leveraged opera to establish and reinforce social and political relationships. By analyzing operatic rituals through anthropological frameworks—particularly Victor Turner's concept of 'magic mirrors'—the research demonstrates that court opera was not merely an artistic endeavor but a deliberate institution designed to reflect and shape societal dynamics, power structures, and cultural identities.
Cultural Landscape and Archaeological Remains of the Bamiyan Valley
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2016 —
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The Bamiyan Buddhas, colossal 6th–7th century CE statues carved into Afghanistan’s Bamiyan Valley cliff faces, were destroyed by the Taliban regime in 2001 using mortar fire and dynamite. This act of cultural heritage destruction, which occurred just months before the September 11 attacks, sparked international outrage. In response, UNESCO designated the Bamiyan Valley as a World Heritage Site and added it to the 'World Heritage in Danger' list in 2003, recognizing its Outstanding Universal Value. The study reflects on this tragedy through a regenerative conservation lens, emphasizing the acceptance of imperfection and flaw as inherent to heritage preservation, drawing from philosophical meditations on waste and garbage. It underscores the urgent need for global recognition and protection of such invaluable historical treasures.
Pasargadae
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2016 —
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Achaemenid artisans employed diverse materials and techniques to achieve polychromatic finishes in their architecture, as revealed by the analysis of painted plaster and glazed brick fragments from Pasargadae and Persepolis. The study identified up to five layers of paint on Pasargadae plaster, including pigments like Egyptian blue, malachite green, red ocher, and cinnabar red, while Persepolis floor fragments featured lime plaster with hematite-rich paint layers. Glazed bricks from Persepolis were found to be composed of high-silica material similar to faience, decorated with alkaline glazes containing lead antimonate, magnesium-iron, and copper. The research used non-invasive X-ray fluorescence and scanning electron microscopy to examine the fragments' layering stratigraphy and composition, providing insights into Achaemenid material technology and informing long-term preservation efforts.
Abbey Church of Saint-Savin sur Gartempe
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2016 —
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A hidden palimpsest, discovered within the false arch of Saint-Savin-sur-Gartempe's nave vault, reveals a previously unknown layer of religious symbolism tied to the cult of saints. This 11th-century architectural feature, initially dismissed as purely decorative, was found to contain inscriptions and imagery that serve a functional purpose in reinforcing the church's spiritual narrative. The study employed multi-disciplinary analysis—including historical documentation, art history, and archival research—to decode these elements, demonstrating how medieval artisans integrated visual storytelling into sacred architecture. This discovery challenges conventional interpretations of Romanesque art, highlighting its role in devotional practice rather than mere ornamentation.
Historic District of Old Québec
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2016 —
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A case study of the Historic District of Old Québec reveals that participatory management, even in a long-standing UNESCO World Heritage Site (20 years), faces significant challenges while offering valuable insights for broader application. The research highlights key elements and contextual factors critical to successful community-based heritage initiatives. Unlike prescriptive 'best practices,' this study provides a nuanced example of participatory management, questioning its relevance in less experienced contexts without prior local involvement. It introduces a conceptual framework and methodological approach for studying such cases, emphasizing the importance of context-specific analysis over generalized recommendations.
Historic Centre of Lima
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2016 —
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Participatory mapping emerged as a powerful tool to challenge unjust urban development trajectories in Lima, Peru, offering a spatially and socially grounded approach for co-producing knowledge that bridges marginalized communities and policymakers. Two action research projects, ReMap Lima and cLIMA sin Riego, demonstrated how community-led mapping—combining advanced technologies with grassroots engagement—can make invisible urban issues visible, foster dialogue among stakeholders, and lead to collectively negotiated actions. By focusing on Barrios Altos (a historic district) and José Carlos Mariátegui (an edge-of-city area), the study revealed distinct pathways for interrogating urban spaces, promoting spatial co-learning that disrupts traditional power dynamics between claimants and the state. This methodology not only addresses immediate planning challenges but also lays the groundwork for just urban futures.
The Persian Garden
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2016 —
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Ancient Persian gardens, such as Shazdeh Garden, demonstrate how cultural design can harmonize with nature to improve living conditions and restore barren lands sustainably. These gardens achieve balance by integrating greenery with architectural structures, creating serene yet functional spaces that enhance human well-being while preserving environmental integrity. The study highlights the potential for such designs to inspire modern solutions for harsh environments, blending aesthetic beauty with practical sustainability. By examining traditional Persian garden principles, researchers aim to develop innovative approaches that promote cultural sustainability alongside ecological conservation.
The Persian Garden
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2016 —
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Persian gardens, evolved over centuries within the Persian Empire, are not merely geometric structures but rich repositories of cultural symbolism and architectural meaning. These gardens incorporate design elements such as water, trees, and pavilions, each carrying specific significance tied to societal beliefs and values. The study reveals that Persian garden design embodies principles like hierarchy, symmetry, centrality, rhythm, and harmony, reflecting a sophisticated interplay between geometric structure and irrigation systems. Additionally, the research explores the philosophical underpinnings of these symbols, demonstrating how they serve as a medium for transmitting national identity and cultural heritage to future generations.
Historic Centre of Siena
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2016 —
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A novel wireless sensor network solution for real-time monitoring of cracks in large monumental structures, demonstrated on Siena's 1.8 km-long ancient city walls, proves highly effective through laboratory testing. The system employs Hall effect-based sensors and two distinct network topologies to ensure pervasive coverage. This approach offers a scalable and non-invasive method for structural health assessment, with potential deployment imminent.
Archaeological Site of Philippi
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2016 —
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Archaeological research at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Philippi, combined with historical analysis, reveals key insights into the early development and social structure of Christianity in Europe. Eduard Verhoef's work highlights that the first-century Philippian church was likely composed of working-class individuals, including Lydia, who may have owned a spacious home serving as a gathering place for believers. By integrating field visits to archaeological sites with regional inscriptions and artifacts, Verhoef estimates that Philippi had around 10,000 inhabitants during this period, providing a vivid context for understanding Paul's letter to the Philippians and Acts of the Apostles. The study underscores how archaeological evidence can bring ancient texts to life, offering a tangible glimpse into the early Christian community's size and social dynamics.
Santiniketan
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2016 —
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A comprehensive pollen atlas of Santiniketan, West Bengal, has been developed, providing detailed identification keys for airborne pollen grains from 101 angiospermic plant species across 40 families. The study reveals diverse pollen morphologies characterized by distinct aperture types (e.g., inaperturate, monoporate, triporate) and exine sculpturing patterns (e.g., echinate, reticulate, verrucate), alongside varied shapes ranging from prolate to oblate-spheroidal. This resource bridges aeropalynology with botanical identification, offering a robust tool for ecological and environmental studies in the region.
Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and Canal
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2016 —
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The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and Canal stands as a testament to 19th-century engineering innovation. This publication by Peter Wakelin explores the aqueduct's unique design, which includes a 384-meter-long, 36-meter-high structure that carries boats across the Tredegar Valley without the use of locks or tunnels. The research delves into the canal's historical significance, its construction challenges, and its enduring legacy as a symbol of industrial ingenuity. Wakelin examines the aqueduct's role in transforming transportation and economic development during the Industrial Revolution, while also addressing its preservation and cultural value today. The study combines archival research with engineering analysis to provide a comprehensive understanding of this remarkable feat of civil engineering.
Central Sikhote-Alin
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2016 —
WHE6FA5AC42BA
In the Central Sikhote-Alin, Korean pine (Pinus koraiensis) seedlings thrive best during late-successional stages (90–100 years and 230–250 years), where balanced ectomycorrhizal fungal communities and thick soil layers foster successful mycorrhization. Early post-fire stages (fresh burns) promote competitive mycorrhization by stress-adapted fungi, while mid-successional stages (50–60 years) show the least successful mycorrhiza formation. The study analyzed four successional phases, linking vegetation structure to Korean pine seedling survival and fungal community dynamics, revealing critical insights into forest regeneration after disturbances.
Península Valdés
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2016 —
WHE71EABB96BA
A decade-long investigation into the mortality of southern right whales (Eubalaena australis) at Península Valdés, Argentina, revealed alarming trends with no clear cause for the majority of deaths. Between 2003 and 2012, 605 whale strandings were recorded, including a peak of 116 in 2012, with calves-of-the-year representing 89.9% of cases. Post-mortem examinations on 212 whales identified only 6.6% with known or probable causes, such as ship strike, blunt trauma, pneumonia, myocarditis, and meningitis. Pathogen testing for viruses and parasites yielded negative results in most cases, except for Brucella spp. in a newborn with pneumonia. Ante-mortem gull parasitism was common but rarely linked to systemic disease. The study highlights the need for further research to identify consistent causes behind these significant mortality events.
