Los Alerces National Park
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2015 —
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A breeding population of the rare marsupial <em>Dromiciops gliroides</em>, the sole surviving member of the order Microbiotheria, has been discovered in Los Alerces National Park, Argentina—marking its southernmost known range in the country. This finding extends its distribution further south than previously documented and suggests the species thrives in Nothofagus forests, likely using tree hollows for refuge rather than constructing dreys. The study, conducted post a 70-year bamboo flowering event that triggered a rodent irruption, captured four adult <em>Dromiciops gliroides</em>, including two females with pouch young, indicating births occurred between late October and early November. Research suggests the species relies on insects during spring due to limited fruiting plants. Threats to this population include introduced predators and human activities such as farming and tourism.
Nyungwe National Park
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2015 —
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Privatization of Nyungwe National Park's buffer zone significantly reduces resource access for local communities, particularly poorer households. The study reveals that these communities heavily relied on the buffer zone for wood collection, which contributed substantially to their income. Following the privatization by the New Forest Company, stricter enforcement led to increased difficulty in accessing these resources. Semistructured interviews and empirical data on household resource collection from park, buffer zone, markets, and private lands were used to assess the impact of this management change.
Rohtas Fort
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2015 —
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Rohtas Fort, Pakistan, holds significant recreational value, contributing approximately US$11.70 million annually, equivalent to 0.05% of Pakistan's GDP in 2013. This study employed the Individual Travel Cost Method to estimate consumer surplus and recreational value, identifying key factors influencing visitation frequency—travel cost, household income, age, household size, education, and sex. Visitors expressed high satisfaction with the museum but highlighted cleanliness as a major issue, with waste disposal services needing urgent improvement. The research suggests that increasing entrance fees could generate additional revenue for maintenance and renovation projects, given visitors' willingness to pay.
Luis Barragán House and Studio
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2015 —
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Luis Barragán House and Studio, designed by the renowned architect in 1947, exemplifies his groundbreaking approach to spatial representation through ambiguity. This study reveals how Barragán's architectural language was first established here, blending symbolic elements with fluid spatial experiences to evoke emotional responses. The research employs a detailed analysis of the site's design, focusing on its use of color, light, and materiality to create layered perceptions that challenge conventional spatial interpretation. By dissecting these ambiguous spaces, the study highlights Barragán's innovative integration of cultural symbolism and sensory engagement, offering insights into his enduring influence on modern architecture.
Kondoa Rock-Art Sites
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2015 —
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Despite nearly a century of research, the rock art of Kondoa District, Tanzania—part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site—lacks a widely accepted stylistic sequence or clear attribution to specific groups. This study resolves these challenges by introducing a systematic analytical framework that integrates both artistic content and geographical context. The analysis identifies three distinct yet overlapping traditions in the region's rock art, each linked to specific ethnic groups. By providing evidence-based authorship ascriptions, the research reveals the complex cultural interactions and settlement patterns of Kondoa District, offering a foundation for future studies on rock art interpretation.
The Persian Garden
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2015 —
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Persian gardens embody the profound Iranian cultural ideal of harmony between nature and humanity, rooted in deep religious and spiritual beliefs. These gardens serve as tangible representations of paradise, reflecting a universal vision that transcends mere physical beauty, blending historical, religious, and poetic elements into an idealized natural environment. Unlike Western literary depictions, Persian gardens symbolize the sublimation of reality through lush landscapes, flowers, and poetic imagery, creating a spiritual connection to nature. The study highlights how these gardens have evolved over centuries as both physical spaces and inner metaphors, integrating customs, poetry, and spiritual traditions into their design and significance.
Frontiers of the Roman Empire – Dacia
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2015 —
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Research on the southwestern frontier of Roman Dacia reveals that the Sarmatian Iazyges penetrated the marshy plains east of the river Tisza significantly earlier than previously believed—immediately after the Marcomannic wars (post-180 AD)—rather than at the end of the 3rd century AD. This challenges long-held assumptions about the timeline and extent of their expansion. The study used GPS to precisely locate Roman military sites, map them geo-referenced, and analyze their relationship with ancient landscapes, as well as investigate the so-called 'Roman walls' in southwestern Romania. By integrating surveys, excavations, and spatial analysis, the research provides new insights into the dynamics of frontier defense, settlement patterns, and the interactions between Roman forces and neighboring tribes.
Surtsey
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2015 —
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Research on the Surtsey Magma Series reveals that the chemical composition of lavas from this iconic phreatomagmatic eruption evolved progressively, becoming more primitive over time. This variation is best explained by mixing different proportions of depleted ridge-like basalt and ponded, enriched alkalic basalt, similar to those found in Iceland's Eastern Volcanic Zone. However, the study also identifies a systematic offset in Nb/Zr ratios, suggesting that the end members used for this explanation are not fully represented in existing literature. The findings highlight processes occurring in ephemeral magma bodies on the extreme leading edge of a propagating off-axis rift near the Iceland plume, providing new insights into volcanic activity at the southwestern-most volcano in the Vestmannaeyjar.
Zagori Cultural Landscape
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2015 —
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Sacred trees in Zagori, NW Greece, serve as enduring symbols of spirituality and local history, their sanctity often tied to proximity or connection with churches. These trees, distinguished by their size, longevity, and natural growth—protected by strong taboos against private use—reflect a deep cultural significance. Research reveals distinct associations between tree species and sacred site types: broadleaved oaks and maples are linked to outlying churches, plane trees dominate central squares near churches as focal points for community life, while cemeteries now feature planted conifers replacing native evergreens. Local communities perceive these trees as living elements of collective memory, underscoring their role in preserving cultural heritage.
Architectural Ensemble of the Trinity Sergius Lavra in Sergiev Posad
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2015 —
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The Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius was perceived as a 'National museum' in pre-revolutionary Russia, blending religious and cultural significance. This study reveals how the site's historical and artistic heritage was interpreted through a museum lens, reflecting complex interactions between the Church and society. By analyzing examples of this approach, the research demonstrates that the Lavra functioned not only as a spiritual center but also as a repository of national identity, bridging religious devotion with cultural preservation. The findings underscore the Lavra's dual role in shaping collective memory and heritage perception during a pivotal period in Russian history.
Trans-Iranian Railway
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2015 —
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Railway travel in early Pahlavi Iran (1925–50) was not a unifying experience but a fragmented one, reflecting the diverse social, cultural, and ethnic divisions of Iranian society. Middle-class travelers used the railway space to assert their class identity while distinguishing themselves from others, driven by a desire for a homogeneously Europeanized nation. The study analyzes how journalists constructed the railway traveler as a symbol of modernity before 1938 and how, in the 1940s, the railway became a microcosm of Iran's heterogeneity, compelling travelers to seek national cohesion through extensive travel. It combines discourse analysis with spatial practices to reveal the complex social dynamics of early Iranian railway culture.
Puerto-Princesa Subterranean River National Park
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2015 —
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Researchers have discovered three new species of Begonia endemic to the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, highlighting the unique flora supported by its limestone habitats. This finding underscores the biodiversity richness and the importance of protecting this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The study employed field surveys and morphological analyses to characterize these new species, demonstrating that significant botanical diversity remains undocumented even in well-studied areas.
Area de Conservación Guanacaste
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2015 —
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Researchers have identified three new species of Trigonospila flies (Diptera: Tachinidae) from the Area de Conservación Guanacaste (ACG), Costa Rica, bringing the total known in the New World to ten. These discoveries—<em>Trigonospila edwinbermudezi</em>, <em>T. uniformis</em>, and <em>T. josemariamoragai</em>—were made through a comprehensive study integrating morphological analysis, photographic documentation, life history data, and molecular evidence. The study also describes the previously unknown male of <em>Trigonospila panamensis</em>. All species were reared from ACG caterpillars during an ongoing inventory of caterpillar-parasitoid interactions across dry, rain, and cloud forests, contributing to biodiversity documentation in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Møns Klint
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2015 —
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A glaciotectonic complex affecting comparable rock units to those at Møns Klint was recently recognized in seismic sections from Jammerbugten in the North Sea, providing a unique opportunity for comparative studies of upper and lower structural levels in thin-skinned thrust-fault deformation. The study highlights the importance of the décollement zone, located 50 to 100 meters below sea level, which separates undeformed bedrock from displaced thrust-sheet units. While structures above sea level at Møns Klint are well-documented, those below remain poorly understood and require further documentation despite previous modeling efforts.
Historic Mosque City of Bagerhat
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2015 —
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Bangladesh's tourism sector, particularly its UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the Historic Mosque City of Bagerhat, contributes significantly to its economy, accounting for 4.4% of GDP, 3.8% of employment, and 1.5% of investment in 2013. Despite hosting around 600,000 tourists in 2012, the country faces challenges in positioning itself as a major global tourist destination. The study highlights Bangladesh's diverse attractions—rivers, coasts, archaeological sites, and religious places—and identifies factors that could bolster its tourism potential. By analyzing current trends and economic impacts, the research suggests strategic improvements to enhance Bangladesh's appeal for both domestic and international tourists.
Historic City of Ayutthaya
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2015 —
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Benchmarking analysis between Borobudur Temple (Indonesia) and the Historic City of Ayutthaya (Thailand) reveals key performance gaps that could enhance tourism outcomes. The study, based on surveys of 100 Indonesian tourists familiar with both sites, identifies disparities in economic, satisfaction, sustainability, and organizational indicators. Findings suggest that leveraging Ayutthaya's strengths—such as its reputation for large-scale Hindu temples and ASEAN prominence—could improve Borobudur Temple's visitor experience and economic benefits for local communities. The research employs accidental sampling via online questionnaires to assess performance against predefined standards, offering actionable insights for local authorities to refine services and attract more tourists.
Hallstatt-Dachstein / Salzkammergut Cultural Landscape
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2015 —
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Effective governance of cultural landscapes, such as Austria's Hallstatt-Dachstein / Salzkammergut World Heritage region, requires integrating natural and cultural heritage into regional development while addressing the complex interplay between stakeholders, including local inhabitants, visitors, businesses, farmers, and civil society. This study highlights the need for a balanced approach that considers both vertical (politics, administration) and horizontal (private sector, civil society) dimensions of governance to sustainably manage these landscapes. The research employs a qualitative analysis of regional planning cultures and legal frameworks, offering insights into how regions can harmonize heritage preservation with economic and social development.
Brasilia
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2015 —
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A significant increase in anthropogenic gadolinium (Gd) in Lake Paranoá, Brasilia, between 2012 and 2013, was detected, serving as a tracer for wastewater-derived substances such as pharmaceuticals. This finding highlights the potential of rare earth element (REE) geochemistry as an inexpensive method to monitor water quality, particularly for reservoirs like Lake Paranoá, which may serve as future drinking water sources. The study analyzed total and dissolved REE and uranium concentrations during dry and wet seasons, revealing distinct M-type lanthanide tetrad effects and large positive Gd anomalies, with the latter likely originating from wastewater treatment plant effluents due to the use of Gd-based contrast agents in medical imaging. Additional inputs, such as aeolian or fluvial sources, may contribute to the observed Ce anomaly.
Ivindo National Park
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2015 —
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A study on the trade of indigenous fruits and nuts around Ivindo National Park (INP), Gabon, reveals that Coula edulis, Irvingia gabonensis, and Dacryodes buettneri are the most sold species, with I. gabonensis fetching the highest prices and serving as a significant income source for sellers. Despite their importance, sellers acknowledge resource decline driven by logging, climate change, and unsustainable harvesting practices. The research, based on semi-structured interviews with 79 market sellers near INP, highlights the need for innovative mechanisms to regulate demand and sustainably manage these resources. It also underscores the role of social factors like marital status and ethnicity in trade participation and suggests further studies on quota-based harvesting approaches.
Old Town of Lijiang
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2015 —
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Lijiang Old Town's river system exemplifies the enduring practical value of traditional Chinese ecological wisdom, demonstrating how ancient principles can address modern environmental challenges. The study reveals that the town's design—rooted in harmonious coexistence with nature—effectively mitigated water pollution and improved water quality through innovative practices like street washing, bridge market culture, and water conservation folklore (e.g., three-hole wells). By integrating these traditional methods into contemporary management, Lijiang achieved significant improvements: sewage treatment rates surged from 45.2% (2008) to 86.82% (2012), and downstream water quality upgraded from 'worst grade V' (2010) to 'grade III' (2014). The research highlights the resilience of ecological wisdom in modern sustainability efforts, offering a blueprint for balancing urban development with environmental stewardship.
Summer Palace, an Imperial Garden in Beijing
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2015 —
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British and French troops looted and destroyed the Yuanmingyuan (Summer Palace) during the Second Opium War, dispersing over a million imperial artifacts globally. This study reveals that military museums in the UK continue to display these artifacts, framing them as 'trophies of war' rather than acknowledging their cultural significance or the context of their acquisition through conflict. The research analyzes how five UK military museums represent these objects, highlighting the complex narratives constructed around China's imperial heritage in such institutional settings.
Monte San Giorgio
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2015 —
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Two new species of the iconic Triassic fish genus <em>Saurichthys</em> have been identified from the Middle Triassic Besano Formation at Monte San Giorgio, Switzerland: <em>S. breviabdominalis</em>, distinguished by its elongated operculum and reduced abdominal region, and <em>S. rieppeli</em>, notable for its block-like haemal arches and unique fin structures. Phylogenetic analysis reveals that <em>S. rieppeli</em> occupies a basal position among Alpine Triassic saurichthyids, supporting hypotheses of convergent evolution in scale reduction within the genus. Meanwhile, <em>S. breviabdominalis</em> forms a monophyletic group with local congeners, suggesting sympatric divergence—a finding that sheds light on ecomorphological divergence and resource partitioning in Triassic marine ecosystems. The study leverages detailed morphological analysis to elucidate character evolution and ecological adaptations in saurichthyid fishes.
Hierapolis-Pamukkale
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2015 —
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Frost and sulfur dioxide (SO₂) are the most detrimental factors to travertine durability, significantly accelerating deterioration when the stone is already weathered. This finding comes from geomechanical research on Turkish travertines from Pamukkale and Hierapolis, which introduced quantitative indicators—ultrasonic waves index (I Vp) and strength reduction index (I Rc)—to predict long-term structural degradation under environmental stress. The study tested resistance to salt crystallization, SO₂ exposure, frost, and high temperatures, following European standards. Results highlight that these indices can effectively forecast the rate of destructive phenomena, offering a tool for assessing travertine longevity in architectural applications.
Archaeological Heritage of the Lenggong Valley
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2015 —
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Contemporary heritage management at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Lenggong Valley, Malaysia, prioritizes archaeological conservation over social, historical, and aesthetic values. A systematically coded content analysis reveals limited stakeholder participation, with decision-making largely controlled by governmental agencies. The study evaluates the Conservation Management Plan (CMP) across five dimensions: legislation, management strategies, implementation, stakeholder involvement, and integration of local values. Findings indicate a need for more inclusive and balanced approaches to heritage conservation that incorporate diverse perspectives.
Shark Bay, Western Australia
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2015 —
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Shark Bay's hypersaline microbial mats, potential analogues of Earth's earliest ecosystems, exhibit unique metabolic pathways not found elsewhere. A first-of-its-kind shotgun metagenomic analysis revealed that these mats are dominated by Proteobacteria, Cyanobacteria, and Bacteroidetes, with distinct microbial community structures compared to Highbourne Cay (Bahamas). Notably, Shark Bay mats feature alternative non-rubisco-based carbon metabolism pathways, such as the reductive TCA cycle and 3-hydroxypropionate/4-hydroxybutyrate cycles, which are absent in other studied ecosystems. Additionally, evidence suggests novel nitrogen and heavy metal cycling processes involving arsenic, mercury, copper, and cadmium. Archaea, highly represented here, may play critical roles in ecosystem function, highlighting Shark Bay's microbial mats as unique and complex ecosystems warranting further study.
Antigua Guatemala
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2015 —
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A new mobile form of street vending has emerged in Antigua, Guatemala, due to changes in municipal regulations and policing priorities. This study examines how spatial governmentality—both horizontal and vertical—shapes the economic practices of Maya street vendors within the UNESCO World Heritage City's sociopolitically constructed spaces. By applying Foucault’s concept of 'governmentality,' the research reveals that these governance dynamics influence why certain street economies persist while others evolve, offering insights into the interplay between urban regulation and informal economic adaptation.
Hoi An Ancient Town
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2015 —
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A critical disconnect exists between UNESCO's urban heritage frameworks and local development priorities, particularly in balancing conservation with economic growth. The study examines case studies from Hoi An Ancient Town (Vietnam) to Laos, Mozambique, and Hong Kong, revealing how top-down heritage management often clashes with grassroots needs. It highlights the potential of stakeholder involvement and adaptive strategies—such as the 'Historic Urban Landscape' approach—to reconcile conservation with development sustainably. Research combines qualitative analysis of policy implementation, community narratives, and urban planning challenges to propose actionable frameworks for preserving intangible cultural heritage while addressing poverty and displacement.
Discovery Coast Atlantic Forest Reserves
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2015 —
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A groundbreaking study demonstrates that DNA barcoding is a highly effective tool for identifying road-killed animals, particularly in fragmented habitats where morphological identification is challenging. Researchers analyzed 222 vertebrate samples collected along the BR-101 highway in Brazil's Discovery Coast Atlantic Forest Reserves, successfully identifying 62 different species, including several threatened or vulnerable ones such as Pyrrhura cruentata and Puma yagouaroundi. The most frequently encountered roadkill species were Molossus molossus (a bat), Didelphis aurita (an opossum), and Trachycephalus mesophaeus (a frog). However, the study noted a significant gap in reptile identification due to limited reference sequences in databases like BOLD. This research not only sheds light on the impact of road mortality on biodiversity but also highlights the potential of DNA barcoding as a critical tool for road ecology studies.
The Forth Bridge
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2015 —
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A novel method using high-sampling GPS data successfully extracted vibration frequencies from the Forth Road Bridge, revealing distinct frequency responses under different loading conditions. The study demonstrated that GPS can reliably capture 3D deflections and accurately extract structural frequencies, with height displacement time series providing more stable results than lateral displacements. Key frequencies of 0.105 Hz and 0.269 Hz were identified from both lateral and height data, correlating well under ambient circulation, strong wind, and trial loadings with two 40-ton lorries. This approach offers a robust tool for real-time structural monitoring.
Historic Centre of Vienna
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2015 —
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During the reign of Leopold I (1658) to Charles VI (1740), Vienna emerged as a pivotal center for Baroque Italian opera, leveraging its status as the capital of the Holy Roman Empire. The study reveals that imperial operatic performances were not merely artistic expressions but part of a structured system designed to glorify the Habsburg dynasty. These performances, characterized by their exceptional quality and symbolism, drew from antique and Christianized mythologies, reinforcing the dynasty's historical mission through deliberate staging. The research identifies three key pillars supporting this system: the <em>poeta Cesareo</em>, the composer, and the stage designer, all contributing to a cohesive narrative that integrated music, drama, and visual artistry to serve imperial propaganda.
Puerto-Princesa Subterranean River National Park
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2015 —
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This research reveals how overlapping environmental and military governance in the buffer zone of Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park exacerbates livelihood vulnerabilities for indigenous communities, particularly the Tagbanua. The study demonstrates that 'violent enclosures'—where conservation and military interventions converge—create coercive governance structures that criminalize local behavior, merging ecological and political control. By analyzing local experiences in Palawan, Philippines, the authors show that these contested frontiers, though seemingly less governable, are highly politicized spaces where scarce resources are tightly managed. The findings underscore the need for policy makers to critically engage with how governance processes yield structural violence, enabling indigenous peoples to navigate the double bind of overlapping enclosures. This work contributes to understanding the complex interplay between conservation, militarization, and agrarian change in protected areas.
Palmeral of Elche
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2015 —
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A technical survey of 11 watermills in the UNESCO-listed Palmeral de Elche, Spain, reveals early hydropower exploitation within a historic Islamic-era irrigation system. These mills, operational until the last century, featured horizontal turbine-type waterwheels with hydraulic heads ranging from 2 to over 15 meters, demonstrating sophisticated engineering for flour production and energy dissipation in a multipurpose canal network. The study provides dimensions and technical parameters, offering insights into mill operation, power yield, and flour production within this unique European palm grove.
Rapa Nui National Park
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2015 —
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Rapa Nui National Park is witnessing a cultural renaissance through the Toki Music School, which blends Polynesian heritage with European classical music. The school, led by Mahani Teave—a renowned pianist who returned to her island after international training—aims to nurture local talent and prevent young Rapanuis from leaving for musical education abroad. With over 70 students, the initiative is housed in an Earthship Biotecture, a sustainable structure built from recycled materials like tires and bottles, showcasing innovative green building techniques. Concurrently, the island has achieved a historic agreement with CONADI to regulate immigration and co-administer the national park, addressing concerns about land ownership and resource management while fostering community trust. This dual focus on cultural preservation and environmental sustainability positions Rapa Nui as a global leader in both music education and sustainable development.
Pantanal Conservation Area
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2015 —
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A novel approach combining social media data and remote sensing identifies that half of all visitors to protected areas globally are concentrated in under 1% of these sites, often UNESCO World Heritage Sites with high accessibility. The study used Flickr photographs as a surrogate for visitor numbers, validated by local censuses, alongside night lights data to distinguish between urban and natural areas. Key hotspots like Brazil's Pantanal and Bolivia's Salar de Uyuni were found to attract significant visitation but remain largely unprotected. This integrated method offers real-time insights into spatial conservation gaps and pressures, demonstrating the potential of big data in global conservation efforts.
Þingvellir National Park
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2015 —
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Þingvellir National Park, the historic site of Iceland's Alþing, the oldest parliament in Europe, holds the memory of a nation shaped by oral tradition and legal debates. The exact location of the Law Rock, central to these proceedings, remains uncertain despite its symbolic importance as a pilgrimage site for modern Pagans. This study explores the cultural significance of Þingvellir through personal narrative, blending historical research with the author's journey as a second-generation Pagan drawn to Iceland's pagan heritage. The approach combines fieldwork observations, historical analysis, and introspective reflection, offering a unique perspective on how memory and place construct national identity.
Ngorongoro Conservation Area
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2015 —
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The Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA), a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve, faces significant ecological threats due to rapid human population growth, diversified livelihoods, and increasing tourism. Research indicates a 5.6% annual population growth rate and a 1.1% rise in livestock numbers, alongside a 46% increase in cropland, which has led to the decline of grasslands and natural forests. These changes are contributing to wildlife population declines and ecosystem transformation. The study also highlights tensions between the Maasai community and the NCA Authority (NCAA) over land use restrictions, as well as rising tourism pressures. Without effective management measures, the future of the NCA's unique ecosystem—and its World Heritage status—is at risk.
Alto Douro Wine Region
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2015 —
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A study on the Alto Douro Wine Region reveals that visitors prioritize the preservation of vineyards supported by schist walls and the region's characteristic landscape mosaic. Using a mixed logit model, researchers found that wealthier, employed, better-educated individuals with deeper knowledge of the site's culture are more willing to engage in heritage conservation. The research highlights structural changes in the region's economy, driven by wine production and tourism, which threaten traditional cultural landscapes. This analysis underscores the need for public attention and preservation efforts to maintain the region's unique identity.
Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks
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2015 —
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A comprehensive analysis of wooden structures in Ohio's Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks reveals their multifaceted roles during the Hopewell Era, spanning architectural and ritualistic functions. The study identifies that thousands of trees were harvested to create posts for load-bearing structures, including single and multi-roomed buildings, as well as extensive land enclosures and short screens. Notably, some posts, both within and outside these structures, appear to have been used for ceremonial purposes, suggesting a deep cultural symbolism. The research examines examples from prominent complexes such as Seip, Tremper, Liberty, and Hopewell, providing insights into the sophisticated construction techniques and symbolic significance of wooden features in this ancient society.
High Coast / Kvarken Archipelago
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2015 —
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Local communities in the High Coast (Sweden) and Kvarken Archipelago (Finland), both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, exhibit predominantly positive attitudes toward tourism development but demonstrate limited understanding of the UNESCO World Heritage concept. While residents in the High Coast region are generally more supportive of increased tourism compared to their counterparts in Kvarken, Finnish authorities show a stronger inclination to leverage World Heritage status for economic benefits than Swedish authorities. The study, based on empirical attitude surveys and focus group interviews, reveals that World Heritage designation alone does not drive regional tourism development but rather fits into broader destination-building efforts. However, collaboration between communities and authorities remains limited and often conflict-laden, suggesting that improved cooperation could enhance the positive image of these sites while supporting sustainable tourism growth.
Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara
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2015 —
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Maekawa Samio, a celebrated 20th-century tanka poet and modernist pioneer, deeply embedded the landscape of Nara—his birthplace and cultural heartland—in his poetry, crafting over 1,000 verses that celebrate its Arcadian beauty and historical richness. Through a detailed analysis of his works, including <em>Shokubutsusai</em> (1930), <em>Yamato roppyakuka</em> (1971), and <em>Yamato mahoroba no ki</em> (1982), this study reveals how Nara's topography and traditions shaped Maekawa's poetic evolution. His verse not only reflects the enduring allure of rural Yamato but also traces shifts in his perception of landscape, from youthful reverence to a mature synthesis of history, culture, and personal memory. The research employs close textual analysis to illustrate Nara's significance as both a physical and symbolic foundation for Maekawa's poetic identity.
Blenheim Palace
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2014 —
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A multi-media exhibit at Blenheim Palace uses new media to challenge traditional narratives of elite history by focusing on private family relationships. The exhibit, 'The Untold Story,' employs a projected apparition of the first Duchess’ lady’s maid, Grace Ridley, to offer tourists intimate, behind-the-scenes glimpses into 300 years of family stories. This approach exposes the emphasis on elites in traditional heritage sites while addressing anxieties about the estate's historical dependence on servants and its current reliance on tourism. The study examines how this combination of new media and a female ghost narrative influences gender negotiations within tourist destinations, providing insight into the evolving dynamics of cultural site interpretation.
Stoclet House
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2014 —
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Gustav Klimt's cartoons for the Stoclet Frieze, created between 1910 and 1911, underwent a significant 'de-restoration' process to reverse earlier invasive treatments. These full-scale, 1:1 cartoons on paper, which served as templates for the mosaic frieze in the Stoclet House's dining room, were consolidated and mounted on acid-free honeycomb cardboard panels. This innovative approach allows the cartoons to be displayed side by side without interruption, forming an uninterrupted eleven-meter-long frieze within a climate-stabilized glass display case. Klimt's detailed instructions for material use and color shades, written directly onto the cartoons, played a crucial role in this conservation effort.
Old Town of Corfu
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2014 —
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St Spyridon, the patron saint of Corfu, served as a unifying symbol for both Greek and Latin communities during the 17th and 18th centuries, reflecting civic rather than ecclesiastical authority. His veneration intensified after the 1716 Ottoman siege, where he was credited with saving Corfu and Western Christianity from invasion. However, by the late 18th century, this unity began to fray following Corfu's fall to Russian and Ottoman forces. A 1790s text by Orthodox theologian Athanassios Parios recontextualized Spyridon’s role, portraying him as a defender of Orthodoxy and an adversary of Greco-Latin rapprochement. The study analyzes shifts in religious symbolism through historical records, revealing how political changes reshaped local religious narratives.
Wieliczka and Bochnia Royal Salt Mines
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2014 —
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The Wieliczka and Bochnia Royal Salt Mines played a pivotal role in the economic transformation of Central Eastern Europe during the late Middle Ages. This study reveals that the intensification of mining activities, particularly salt extraction, was not merely a result of Western influence but also driven by local demand for non-ferrous metals and regional economic development. The research highlights the complex interplay between 'domestic' and 'foreign' elements in shaping the cultural landscape, with Western patterns adapting to local realities while maintaining distinct social and economic functions. By analyzing archaeological evidence and historical records, the study demonstrates that mining centers like Wieliczka and Bochnia were integral to the commercialization process, supported by new rural settlements and fortified castles. The findings underscore the nuanced nature of cultural exchange during this period, challenging simplistic narratives of Western dominance.
Paris, Banks of the Seine
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2014 —
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A critical analysis of Paris's 2013 transformation of the Left Bank Seine expressway into a pedestrian promenade reveals it as a superficial, prestige-driven project with significant unintended consequences. The study argues that despite its aesthetic appeal and leisure enhancements, the initiative lacks substantive sociological or urban planning foundations, raising concerns about its impact on urban quality of life and the moralization of mobilities. This critique challenges the underlying ideology of such projects, suggesting they prioritize image over functional or social benefits.
Archaeological Heritage of the Lenggong Valley
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2014 —
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Lenggong Valley, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its significant archaeological heritage, is proposed as a competitive rural destination in Malaysia. The study introduces a competitiveness model that leverages the unique resources of Lenggong Valley to enhance tourism attractiveness. This approach builds on established models of destination competitiveness and aims to capitalize on the valley's four excavation sites, divided into two clusters with distinct core zones and buffer areas. The research seeks to position Lenggong Valley as a key attraction during Perak's Visit Perak Year 2012 campaign, emphasizing its potential to draw more visitors through strategic utilization of its heritage assets.
Mantua and Sabbioneta
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2014 —
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A multi-range approach for cultural heritage survey demonstrates the effectiveness of integrating diverse acquisition technologies—including aerial photogrammetry, UAV-based photogrammetry, laser scanning, and traditional topography—in documenting UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This method enables the creation of a 3D multiscale database, capturing architectural-urban details down to fine-scale features (1:50–1:20 scale). Applied in Mantua’s Palazzo Te gardens, the approach revealed historical modifications and provided graphical documentation for potential future redesigns. Comparative analysis of point cloud models confirmed the efficiency of this integrated methodology, offering a robust framework for studying and preserving cultural heritage.
San Agustín Archaeological Park
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2014 —
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A new approach integrating advanced technologies, particularly 3D modeling, has been successfully applied to document, conserve, and preserve the monolithic statues at San Agustín Archaeological Park in Colombia. The study, conducted by the Instituto Colombiano de Antropología e Historia (ICANH), utilized infrared structured-light (SL) and phase shift (PS) laser scanning technologies to create detailed 3D models of 66 sculptures. While the initial phase identified areas for improvement, such as increasing mesh detail for more precise conservation efforts, it established a robust methodology that can serve as a pilot model for other heritage sites in Colombia. The findings highlight the potential and challenges of using these technologies for outdoor cultural heritage documentation, offering valuable insights for future preservation projects.
Nyungwe National Park
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2014 —
WHEC0D8D8DDB2
A new species of praying mantis, Dystacta tigrifrutex, has been discovered in Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda. This finding expands the known biodiversity of the region and provides insights into the morphological diversity within the genus Dystacta. The discovery was made through a targeted entomological survey conducted in 2013, which yielded two conspecific specimens—a male and female—along with first-instar nymphs and an ootheca (egg case). Researchers also re-described the previously monotypic genus Dystacta to broaden its definition. The study includes detailed morphological descriptions, measurement data, a key for species identification, natural history information, and locality data, contributing valuable resources for taxonomic studies and biodiversity documentation in Rwanda.
Gyeongju Historic Areas
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2014 —
WHEED46F13572
A key insight from this study is the potential to enhance Gyeongju's identity through architectural harmony, blending contemporary commercial needs with historic elements. The research proposes a streetscape design guideline that emphasizes uniformity in diversity, suggesting traditional Korean tiled roofs for buildings with cultural significance and tripartition wall designs to maintain visual cohesion. To address congestion in the central commercial district, the study recommends simplifying the environment while preserving tradition. Additionally, it introduces four traditional cornice archetypes based on Korean eaves and advocates for signboards that break from square shapes, incorporating icons that reflect Gyeongju's historicity. The findings are derived from a condition investigation and landscape analysis of the area, aiming to create a balance between modern functionality and historical aesthetics.
