Kasbah of Algiers
—
2019 —
WHEE36D9936F6
A comparative analysis of traditional wall typologies and construction techniques in the UNESCO-listed Casbah of Algiers reveals that specific compositions significantly enhance energy performance, aligning with principles of eco-design and climatic adaptability. The study identifies optimal material configurations to improve thermal inertia, offering a sustainable approach for preserving heritage structures while optimizing environmental resource use. Researchers employed simulations to evaluate thermal behavior across different wall types, providing actionable insights for ecological restoration and climate resilience in historic architecture.
Changdeokgung Palace Complex
—
2019 —
WHE0C09FA7DFE
A comparative analysis of the poetic couplets (柱聯詩) in Changdeokgung Palace's Huwon and Beijing's Forbidden City reveals both shared thematic elements and distinct cultural emphases. While both Korean and Chinese palace couplets depict daily life, faith, moral lessons, and scenic beauty, their thematic foci differ: Korea emphasizes the rarity of true friendship (知己), while China stresses blessings for the monarchy and people. Additionally, Korean couplets employ more seasonal imagery than their Chinese counterparts. The study also examines creation methods, noting that both traditions frequently cite 7-syllable regulated verse (7言律詩) but differ in citation volume and source diversity. This research bridges gaps in existing scholarship by providing new insights into the cultural and aesthetic dimensions of East Asian palace architecture.
Lençóis Maranhenses National Park
—
2019 —
WHE89CDCE8458
Tourism destinations along the Route of Emotions, including Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, show lower competitiveness compared to Brazil's national average across most dimensions except environmental aspects and regional cooperation. This finding highlights a need for stronger public policies to enhance their economic potential. The study analyzed data from the National Tourism Competitiveness Index (2008–2015), comparing three key destinations—Barreirinhas, Parnaíba, and Jijoca de Jericoacoara—and their respective protected areas. Despite some regional strengths, overall competitiveness lags behind national benchmarks, signaling opportunities for targeted development interventions.
Nyungwe National Park
—
2019 —
WHEA41839F1FD
A revenue-sharing scheme aimed at balancing biodiversity conservation and community development around Nyungwe National Park (NNP) has shown limited success. Despite investments of approximately 1 billion Rwandan francs supporting 152 projects, local dependence on natural resources—such as stolen exotic tree species and mining—remains high, with 38.6% of respondents citing mining as a primary income source. The scheme failed to significantly reduce threats to biodiversity due to economic gaps that left many community members dissatisfied. Researchers recommend revising the revenue-sharing model to better address livelihood costs and create a true win-win scenario for conservation and development.
Curonian Spit
—
2019 —
WHEFC4E64B198
Aerial photogrammetry using UAVs offers a precise, non-invasive alternative to traditional ground measurements for monitoring sand traps in dunes. This study found that UAV-derived topographic data can accurately assess aeolian processes with minimal surface disruption, unlike conventional methods that harm the dune and are limited by infrequent sampling (twice yearly). By comparing UAV aerial images with ground-based granulometry, researchers demonstrated the potential for automated photogrammetric techniques to evaluate sand trap effectiveness at optimal intervals (every 2–3 months), advancing sustainable dune conservation on the Curonian Spit.
San Millán Yuso and Suso Monasteries
—
2019 —
WHE398A669761
A study comparing advanced image techniques revealed that graffiti in the cloister of San Millán de Yuso Monastery, previously thought lost after cleaning works, could still be detected using raking light photography, short-distance convergent photogrammetry with image enhancement, Reflectance Transformation Imaging (RTI), and structured-light scanning. These methods, applied in 2018, demonstrated varying effectiveness for identifying graffiti and assessing their conservation status, offering potential for combined use to preserve cultural heritage. The research highlights the importance of non-invasive imaging techniques in documenting at-risk artistic elements before irreversible damage occurs.
Archaeological Areas of Pompei, Herculaneum and Torre Annunziata
—
2019 —
WHE9BAFF58918
Significant differences between original Roman mortars and those used in twentieth-century restoration campaigns at the Herculaneum archaeological site have been identified, which may contribute to degradation processes. Roman mortars were found to contain coarser aggregates with a lower ratio of binder compared to modern mortars. This study employed petrography, thermal analysis, and X-ray fluorescence investigations to evaluate mineralogical, elemental, and thermal properties. The findings aim to enhance the compatibility of restoration mortars, thereby improving conservation efforts at UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Monte San Giorgio
—
2019 —
WHE7CAF10C31C
A significant difference was found between microbial communities in bituminous shales and limestone strata from the Middle Triassic Cava Superiore Beds at Monte San Giorgio, Switzerland. The study used contig assembly, OTU clustering, and rarefaction analysis to reveal this distinction, highlighting the unique substrate provided by thermally immature organic compounds in these fossil-rich deposits. Metagenomic tools further showed that nutrient-rich media drastically reduced microbial diversity, favoring Proteobacteria and Firmicutes, while oligotrophic media sustained high diversity. The findings suggest that Monte San Giorgio's bituminous shales and enriched microbiomes are capable of degrading complex polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.
Blaenavon Industrial Landscape
—
2019 —
WHE2792181314
A controlled trial over 11 years found that composted municipal green waste (MGW) did not significantly improve tree height or diameter at breast height (DBH) but had contrasting effects on survival rates of three tree species in degraded opencast coal land near the UNESCO World Heritage site Blaenavon Industrial Landscape, Wales. While Common Alder showed the highest overall survival without MGW treatment, Silver Birch and European Larch exhibited significantly higher survival when treated with composted MGW (40% food waste and 60% garden waste). This suggests potential species-specific benefits of MGW in land reclamation efforts, despite its limited impact on growth metrics.
Wooden Churches of Maramureş
—
2019 —
WHE56185A3AD5
A rare analysis of apocalyptic iconography in UNESCO-listed Maramureș wooden churches reveals that Painter Ștefan from Șișești's static yet symbolically rich compositions—depicting the Holy Trinity, evangelists, and eschatological figures like the Lamb of God or Archangel Michael—served as visual prompts for community reflection on social harmony and posthumous destiny. Using Panofsky’s iconological method alongside ethnographic insights, the study argues that these works, though rooted in Post-Byzantine tradition, subtly humanize apocalyptic imagery under Baroque influence, signaling a collective preoccupation with societal cohesion and cosmic order. Their strategic placement—on nave vaults or altars—underscores their role as cultural signifiers, yet they remain underexplored despite offering key insights into 18th-century Maramureș aesthetics and values.
Jiuzhaigou Valley Scenic and Historic Interest Area
—
2019 —
WHE12F935588F
A comprehensive evaluation of satellite-based precipitation data from the Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) mission reveals that its final hourly product offers reliable, research-level accuracy for complex mountainous terrains like Jiuzhaigou Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site prone to rainfall-triggered debris flows. The study found that while early and late GPM products showed moderate correlation with ground observations, the final product demonstrated superior performance, effectively reproducing diurnal precipitation cycles and capturing cumulative rainfall patterns. Despite challenges in reducing missing reports, the findings support the development of early-warning systems for geological disasters and provide insights for improving rainfall retrieval algorithms in similar high-altitude regions.
Kulangsu, a Historic International Settlement
—
2019 —
WHE3E2629C50D
A computational approach using space syntax has revealed distinct spatial patterns in Chinese historic towns, offering new quantitative insights into their geometric and social characteristics. The study analyzed four key features—axiality, curvature, intelligibility, and synergy—to map the urban form of Pingyao, Lijiang, Kulangsu, and Wuzhen. Unlike previous qualitative studies, this method provides measurable data that can support heritage conservation policies, town planning, and tourism development. The findings highlight how spatial properties influence cultural and social dynamics in historic settlements, bridging the gap between traditional analysis and modern computational techniques.
Ancient Jericho/Tell es-Sultan
—
2019 —
WHE82C00A22FB
Archaeological research at Tell es-Sultan, ancient Jericho, reveals significant population growth and urban development during the Early Bronze Age I-III. By analyzing domestic contexts in Area F of the Italian-Palestinian excavations, the study provides a demographic snapshot of Jericho's transition from a village to a fortified city. This approach offers new insights into the settlement's population dynamics and urbanization processes, contributing to our understanding of early urban experiences in the region.
Vredefort Dome
—
2019 —
WHEA922B05CB2
The sixth Large Meteorite Impacts and Planetary Evolution Conference (LMI VI), held in Brasilia, Brazil, from September 30 to October 3, 2019, marked a significant milestone as the first dedicated impact cratering meeting on the South American continent. The conference brought together 90 participants from 21 countries, presenting 121 abstracts and featuring specialized workshops on advanced microtextural analysis and shock metamorphism recognition. Key discussions highlighted the importance of electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) in identifying shock effects and dating accessory minerals, while also emphasizing traditional optical microscopy techniques for impact studies. The conference also addressed the need for intercalibration of shock barometry methods and proposed a formal approach to the Meteoritical Society for updating the terrestrial cratering database. Post-conference excursions to Brazilian impact structures, including Araguainha Dome and Vargeão/Vista Alegre, provided field-based discussions on impact-induced deformation and its implications for planetary studies. LMI VI successfully fostered international collaborations and advanced impact research in South America, with plans for a proceedings volume continuing the tradition of previous conferences.
Arab-Norman Palermo and the Cathedral Churches of Cefalú and Monreale
—
2019 —
WHE619B7BA4D2
The Norman conquest of Sicily in the eleventh century revealed that the primary power struggles within the kingdom were internal, pitting kings against their own Norman aristocracy—both Christian—rather than external forces like Muslims or other Christian factions. This study challenges conventional narratives by demonstrating that the strong Norman kingship was sustained through a delicate balance among aristocrats, cities, and bureaucrats. The research focuses on Palermo's palace, originally a Muslim castle repurposed as a royal residence, highlighting its symbolic and strategic importance in mediating these power dynamics. By analyzing historical records and political structures, the study underscores how central authority emerged not from conflict with outsiders but through intricate negotiations among elites.
Ancient and Primeval Beech Forests of the Carpathians and Other Regions of Europe
—
2019 —
WHE5D211CF314
European beech forests, unique temperate ecosystems shaped by post-glacial recolonization and human activity, exhibit congruent patterns of functional diversity in saproxylic beetles and fungi. This diversity decreases from south to north, with higher elevation and temperature, while increasing with precipitation. Structural equation modeling revealed that local functional diversity is driven by regional species pool dynamics, influenced by anthropogenic and biogeographical processes. To preserve these biodiversity hotspots, conservation efforts should target a broad spatial and climatic range across Europe, including primeval forests recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Kaziranga National Park
—
2019 —
WHE9BB7FE58D5
Kaziranga National Park, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, faces significant conservation and livelihood conflicts. The study highlights that while the park's unique biodiversity has been severely impacted by natural and human interventions, conservation efforts have disproportionately affected local communities who have historically relied on its resources. This has led to violent confrontations and a sense of exclusion from the conservation process. The research emphasizes the critical need for community participation in conservation strategies to align with the livelihood aspirations of local people, suggesting that integrating these perspectives could mitigate conflicts and foster sustainable coexistence between wildlife protection and human development.
Huascarán National Park
—
2019 —
WHE59092BA6F5
Conservation efforts in Peru's Huascarán National Park reveal a complex interplay of authority and power, shaped by historical sedimentation and situated consent. Despite the park's establishment without prior consultation with local peasant communities, post-facto attempts to include them have led to diverse responses, highlighting the problem of creating consent after defining landscape use. The study examines three distinct cases where the park has negotiated control over aesthetic and productive values, demonstrating that different modalities of governance coexist partially and simultaneously. This research underscores the importance of a grounded, historically specific analysis in processes framed as development, showing how conservation conjunctures continuously shape the relationship between parks and people.
Historic Villages of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama
—
2019 —
WHE46871433F2
Traditional agricultural villages, such as Japan's Shirakawa-go and Gokayama, face rapid decline, threatening their cultural heritage. Conservation efforts must balance tangible preservation with intangible traditions while maintaining ecological integrity. This study highlights the critical role of resident engagement and re-establishing links between landscape elements—like gassho-style houses—and daily activities (e.g., agriculture) to sustain these villages. It emphasizes that regulations alone are insufficient; self-motivated residents and innovative design are essential for long-term viability. The research combines case study analysis with conservation design principles, offering a model for safeguarding similar heritage sites globally.
Sagarmatha National Park
—
2019 —
WHE6E2FA4C703
A groundbreaking study reveals that community-led conservation efforts, such as the Buffer Zone Community Forest User Groups (BZCFUG) and Buffer Zone Management Programs (BZMP), have significantly advanced biodiversity conservation, climate change adaptation, and sustainable forest product production in Sagarmatha National Park (SNP) and its buffer zones. The research demonstrates that devolution of decision-making rights to local communities, particularly indigenous Sherpa people, enhances governance and aligns with international conservation standards while respecting human rights. This synergy between scientific knowledge and cultural perspectives underscores the importance of free, prior, and informed consent in achieving conservation goals. The study employed qualitative methods, including field observations, interviews, and participatory meetings, conducted over two decades in Pharak and Khumbu regions.
Saint Catherine Area
—
2019 —
WHEA988419DFF
A critical decline in the habitat quality of Crataegus x sinaica, a medicinal shrub endemic to South Sinai's Saint Catherine Area, has been attributed to recent climate change and human activities such as over-cutting for fuel and food, unmanaged scientific collection, uncontrolled tourism, and Bedouin settlements. This study identifies these threats and proposes conservation strategies to protect the species from extinction while enabling further research on its pharmacological properties, particularly flavonoids and anthocyanins, which have long been used in traditional medicine for heart-related conditions.
Xinjiang Tianshan
—
2019 —
WHE16401C1FF3
A new framework combining multiple techniques reveals significant spatial variation in the conservation status of Outstanding Universal Value (OUV) at Bogda, part of Xinjiang Tianshan World Natural Heritage Site. Researchers developed a Heritage Value Protection Significance Index (HVPSI) and related indices to assess OUV conservation across 17 indicators, including integrity, vulnerability, sensitivity, human impact, and environmental factors. Spatial autocorrelation analysis identified distinct zones with varying heritage value protection levels. Field surveys confirmed differences in plant community composition and diversity between these zones, while a spatial-econometric model validated the partitioning approach. This study provides actionable insights for managing heritage sites and establishes a methodological foundation for future OUV assessments.
Historic City of Yazd
—
2019 —
WHE5ACDB40589
Iran's management of historic urban cores, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Yazd, is characterized by a centralized and top-down approach that has only recently begun to incorporate participatory elements. The study reveals inefficiencies in the interrelationships among specialized agencies with full operational autonomy, highlighting persistent challenges such as informality, unclear land ownership, high poverty rates, and substandard building quality. By analyzing the legal framework and institutional dynamics, the research underscores the need for more coordinated and inclusive heritage management strategies to address these issues effectively.
Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range
—
2019 —
WHE66E2A3291E
A collaborative approach to disaster preparedness and restoration is essential for protecting cultural heritage sites, such as the UNESCO World Heritage Site 'Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range,' while minimizing environmental impact. The study highlights that pre-disaster planning, involving government officials and related institutions, can significantly reduce the burden on cultural properties during recovery. It proposes reconstruction methods that prioritize harmony with nature and scenic preservation, drawing from damage cases of Yokogaki-toge Pass. While best practices for such reconstructions remain understudied, this research serves as a precedent for future disaster recovery efforts, offering practical implications for cultural property management and social benefits for stakeholders involved in heritage conservation.
National Archeological Park of Tierradentro
—
2019 —
WHE91C8C8A3F0
Nasa women from Tierradentro, Cauca, employ traditional weaving as a powerful means of ancestral communication and cultural preservation. Their textiles, rich with symbols and meanings derived from community interactions, historical narratives, and guidance from elders, serve as a strategy for the survival of their people and territory. The term 'umna' in Nasayuwe language signifies the ability to connect spiritual, physical, and territorial dimensions, reflecting a dynamic relationship with cosmic elements like the moon and sun. This practice is sustained through collective learning and community pedagogies, ensuring its continuity across generations. The study underscores the significance of these textiles as both a cultural artifact and a vehicle for maintaining dignity and identity.
Djémila
—
2019 —
WHE09E4FAE00B
Archaeological tools from the excavation of Djemila, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Algeria, reveal shared technical knowledge and craftsmanship practices among Roman-era artisans. The analysis demonstrates that stonecutters, carpenters, and masons employed standardized methods for stone extraction, wood shaping, and surface finishing, with striking morphological similarities to tools found in other Roman provinces. This suggests a widespread exchange of skills and techniques across the Roman Empire, highlighting the interconnectedness of construction practices during antiquity.
Coffee Cultural Landscape of Colombia
—
2019 —
WHEF1A38148AC
In the Coffee Cultural Landscape of Colombia (CCLC), local coffee consumption patterns are shifting from traditional, often 'bad' consumer behaviors to a growing preference for specialty coffee. This study, based on three months of anthropological fieldwork in the Eje Cafetero region, reveals how structural changes within the coffee chain—such as the rise of cafés especiales—are influencing these trends. The research highlights both the benefits and limitations of specialty coffee development, offering a nuanced analysis of consumption strategies in a patrimonial context.
Ajanta Caves
—
2019 —
WHE809B1AE40B
A seated Buddha image carved in relief on the stupa at Ajanta Cave 26, dating to the Gupta period, represents one of the earliest known depictions of a Buddha in a throne-like seat (Buddha's Lion Throne). This study reveals that such representations, which symbolize absolute authority and divine presence, likely influenced later seated Buddha images in East Asia. The research analyzes the stylistic evolution of thrones in religious iconography—from prehistoric female figurines to Roman emperors, Christian figures, and finally the Buddha—and their symbolic significance. It argues that the positioning of a full-sized Buddha relief on the stupa's facade reflects an early conceptualization of the stupa as a symbolic vessel for the Buddha's teachings, with his seated posture signifying continuous preaching. The study also examines the relationship between the seated Buddha and a nearby reclining Buddha image, suggesting a narrative of enlightenment completion and continuity.
Archaeological Site of Leptis Magna
—
2019 —
WHE342E5C7ED8
Roman honorific monuments, particularly statue groups of the imperial family from the 1st and 2nd centuries CE, are predominantly situated in four key architectural settings: temples, nymphaea, entertainment structures, and fora/agorai. These statues were strategically placed in high-traffic areas to maximize visibility and interaction during daily activities and rituals, serving as symbols of loyalty, gratitude, power, wealth, and prestige for the ruling household. The study reveals that dynastic honors are most prevalent under the Julio-Claudian and Antonine dynasties, with a notable correlation between the inception of these monuments and the first emperor of a new dynasty. By analyzing preserved statues, display contexts, patrons/dedicator(s), and historical backgrounds, this research offers a comprehensive understanding of how honorific monuments functioned within their local landscapes, providing insights into ancient social, political, and historical phenomena.
Writing-on-Stone / Áísínai’pi
—
2019 —
WHE54FA9E57D2
A new policy framework for Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park is proposed to bridge the gap between protecting tangible rock art and sustaining intangible heritage practices. The study highlights how current conservation efforts, while safeguarding existing rock art, inadvertently restrict contemporary Blackfoot artists from engaging in sacred acts of communication with the spirit world—a core aspect of their cultural tradition. By allowing traditional-style contemporary rock-art making within the park, this approach aims to revitalize living heritage without compromising preservation goals.
Venice and its Lagoon
—
2019 —
WHE7DD702C6E4
A critical analysis of UNESCO World Heritage policy highlights 'continuity' as a fundamental yet underutilized concept that could resolve significant challenges facing the system. The study argues that operationalizing continuity—particularly by replacing authenticity with it in the Operational Guidelines (OG)—could bridge the culture/nature divide, facilitate people-centred living heritage approaches, and enhance community roles in management. This approach would better recognize interlinkages between people and properties while aligning with the 2012–2022 Strategic Action Plan's goals. The research contributes to contemporary discussions on World Heritage issues by proposing continuity as a strategic objective for future nominations and management strategies.
Stone Town of Zanzibar
—
2019 —
WHE301FE99887
Zanzibar's Stone Town embodies complex contradictions in its heritagization process. While it reflects Swahili roots and cosmopolitan influences from the Indian Ocean, British colonialism introduced divisions that persist today. The 1964 Zanzibar Revolution further reshaped the urban landscape through nationalization, raising questions about whose heritage should be preserved and what criteria define 'Outstanding Universal Value.' This study highlights the tensions between conservation efforts and social transformations, challenging UNESCO's universalist approach.
Chitwan National Park
—
2019 —
WHE0CA2AF8D22
Buffer zone programs around Chitwan National Park, Nepal, significantly reduce human-wildlife conflicts when funds are directed toward direct interventions for prevention and mitigation. A study found that only 13.7% of the buffer zone budget was allocated to such measures, yet this small investment inversely correlated with conflict levels. While residents generally held positive attitudes toward wildlife conservation and were aware of the programs, they expressed dissatisfaction with current practices. The research highlights the need for prioritizing direct intervention funds in buffer zones to effectively minimize human-wildlife impacts, offering a practical approach for similar conservation efforts worldwide.
Putorana Plateau
—
2019 —
WHE5232FBC890
A new record of the bumblebee species <em>Bombus consobrinus</em> on the Putorana Plateau, previously unknown in this region, expands its known range from southern and central Krasnoyarsk Krai to northern Siberia. The study documents 10 bumblebee species in the Southern Taymyr, with seven observed on the plateau and six near Dudinka Town, highlighting a mix of Transpalaearctic, Holarctic, arcto-boreal, arcto-temperate, boreal, and temperate species. Dominant species belong to the subgenera <em>Pyrobombus</em> and <em>Alpinobombus</em>, typical of tundra and forest-tundra zones in the Northern Palaearctic. Field research identified these patterns, contributing to the understanding of bumblebee diversity in this remote, ecologically significant area.
Kahuzi-Biega National Park
—
2019 —
WHED1CDB4536E
A study of Kahuzi-Biega National Park (KBNP) in the Democratic Republic of Congo reveals a high diversity of benthic macroinvertebrates, with 84 morphospecies identified across 12 orders and 47 families. This richness is linked to varied substratum types and undisturbed forested river conditions, though some sites show lower species diversity due to unfavorable natural factors. The research highlights the park's ecological significance within Africa's Albertine Rift biodiversity hotspot, despite challenges like insecurity and harsh field conditions. Spatial distribution analysis of systematic groups provides insights into the environmental dynamics shaping aquatic fauna in this critical conservation area.
Badain Jaran Desert - Towers of Sand and Lakes
—
2019 —
WHEF2FFE2395C
A groundbreaking study quantifies the Gobi Desert's contribution to the Badain Jaran Desert (BJD) and the Chinese Loess Plateau (CLP), challenging long-held assumptions about its role. Using a combination of field investigations, wind tunnel experiments, and wind field analyses, researchers determined that the modern Gobi Desert erodes at rates between 0.41 to 0.89 mm per year. This erosion rate suggests it would take approximately 80,800 years for the BJD to reach its current dimensions, while the CLP's formation would require an implausibly long 4.5 million years. These findings indicate that the Gobi Desert is a significant sand source for the modern BJD but may have been overestimated as a primary contributor to the loess of the modern CLP, despite its historical importance during the Quaternary period.
Namib Sand Sea
—
2019 —
WHE9EF4C04976
A first-of-its-kind study reveals that fog and dew significantly boost soil moisture and plant water status in the Namib Desert, with plants showing stronger responses to fog. Among eight common species, seven benefited from these nonrainfall waters, particularly through foliar uptake by Euclea pseudebenus and Faidherbia albida. The research highlights the critical role of concurrent leaf and soil water potential measurements in understanding desert vegetation's reliance on fog and dew, filling a key gap in dryland ecohydrology. Findings also suggest that night fog may not impact plant water potential, underscoring the importance of timing in these processes.
Site of Palmyra
—
2019 —
WHEAAF604554C
A significant decline in coral-dominated benthic cover-type (CDBCTC) has been detected across six remote Pacific islands, with reductions ranging from 25% to 43%. This finding was achieved using a robust machine learning classifier based on support vector machines (SVM), trained and validated with ground truth observations and Landsat imagery. The study introduces a methodology for spatial generalization of coral cover classifiers, demonstrating high accuracy in cross-validation (75.3%) and when tested against new data from neighboring reefs. The research highlights the effectiveness of SVM-based change detection in assessing temporal changes in coral reef ecosystems, providing critical insights for global coral reef monitoring.
Ujung Kulon National Park
—
2019 —
WHEBB7D57B871
A study assessing coral reef conditions in the east waters of Panaitan Island, Ujung Kulon National Park, revealed that Station 1 exhibited the highest damage at a depth of 5 meters, with 50% of coral reefs affected. Mortality rates were also notably high at this station, with indices of 0.4 and 0.44 at depths of 5 and 10 meters, respectively. These findings suggest that Station 1 is more susceptible to destructive exploitation compared to previous observations. The research utilized the Line Intercept Transect method for coral cover data collection and the mortality index method for analyzing reef mortality across four stations and two depths.
Caves of Maresha and Bet-Guvrin in the Judean Lowlands as a Microcosm of the Land of the Caves
—
2019 —
WHEF790ABC099
A groundbreaking corpus of inscriptions from Judea and Idumea, spanning the 4th century BC to the 7th century AD, reveals significant insights into Second Temple Judaism, Early Christianity, and Hellenistic culture. The volume, featuring over 1,000 previously unpublished inscriptions, includes unique texts such as a Samaritan inscription with an abbreviated Decalogue, Greek graffiti documenting three generations of a family, and a military diploma from Hebron. Notably, it provides evidence of syncretism in Maresha, where Idumean, Nabatean, Phoenician, Egyptian, Greek, and Judean influences coexist. The corpus also sheds light on early Christian practices, including the use of mosaics for salvation, the role of holy Salome, and hermits' spiritual convictions.
State Historical and Cultural Park “Ancient Merv”
—
2019 —
WHE5C1B7DA4D1
A comparative analysis of ceramic assemblages from Qizlar Qalʾeh, Iran, and ancient Merv (modern Gyaur Kala), Turkmenistan, reveals correlated technological developments during the Seleucid and Parthian periods. Both sites exhibit similar innovations in vessel repertoires and production techniques, suggesting a shared cultural environment, particularly during the Early Parthian period. While these changes point to a common Hellenistic influence, local ceramic traditions persisted, demonstrating adaptability under foreign rule. Quantitative and archaeometric analyses were employed to assess modifications in assemblage composition and manufacturing techniques, providing insights into the neighborhood relations between eastern Iran and western Central Asia.
Amiens Cathedral
—
2019 —
WHE549735CC7B
A non-destructive, battery-operated electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) technique successfully predicted the corrosion behavior of two metallic cultural heritage assets: an iron bar chain from Amiens Cathedral and a weathering steel sculpture in Ferrara. The study demonstrated that in-situ EIS measurements can rapidly assess corrosion states, revealing protective rust layer effectiveness and potential danger conditions without surface damage. This portable method offers a practical solution for monitoring and preserving historic artifacts, as shown by its ability to differentiate corrosion products based on orientation and environmental exposure.
Museumsinsel (Museum Island), Berlin
—
2019 —
WHE48C883DA4D
Germany's engagement with its colonial past reflects a shift towards a cosmopolitan culture of remembrance, driven by factors such as its evolving self-image as an immigration society, debates surrounding the Humboldt Forum, and international discussions on cultural heritage rights. This study argues that Germany's current postcolonial dynamic is representative of broader European debates, particularly in ethnological museums. It highlights the significance of recent activism, such as the 'Kolonialismus im Kasten?' initiative, which challenges traditional museum narratives by providing alternative perspectives on colonial history. The research also examines the controversy surrounding the Humboldt Forum, questioning its Eurocentric approach and demanding a re-evaluation of ethnological collections acquired during colonialism. This shift represents a move away from national identity paradigms towards a more inclusive, postcolonial perspective that acknowledges global power imbalances.
Ancient Jericho/Tell es-Sultan
—
2019 —
WHE3A746CB8BE
A significant discovery of cotton textiles from the Byzantine to Medieval periods (5th–13th centuries CE) in ancient Palestine reveals a shift from imported Roman-era cotton to locally produced or traded fabrics. Key findings include Z-spun ikats at Nahal ‘Omer and S-spun garments/shrouds at Qasr el-Yahud, alongside resist-dyed fragments from Cave 38 near Jericho. The study suggests the co-development of textile trade and local production during Late Antiquity and the medieval period. By analyzing these artifacts, researchers trace the origin and evolution of cotton textiles in Palestine, providing insights into regional craftsmanship and economic transitions.
Islands and Protected Areas of the Gulf of California
—
2019 —
WHE02D645E764
A global gap analysis of Cactaceae reveals that 261 out of 1438 species are not currently protected within existing networks, with the most effective conservation areas covering approximately 52% of their ranges. This study highlights significant gaps in protection for endemic cactus species, including Ferocactus diguetii, found in the Gulf of California's islands. The analysis underscores the need for targeted conservation efforts to safeguard these biodiversity hotspots, particularly in regions like Baja California Sur, Mexico. The research leverages spatial data to identify critical areas for conservation planning, emphasizing the importance of expanding protected areas to include unprotected species ranges.
Dinosaur Provincial Park
—
2019 —
WHE913E2D20A4
Newly discovered specimens of <em>Saurornitholestes langstoni</em>, including an almost complete skeleton with a well-preserved skull, reveal distinctive cranial traits that clarify its systematic position within the Dromaeosauridae family. The study identifies specialized premaxillary teeth, previously misidentified as belonging to another genus (<em>Zapsalis abradens</em>), which show unique morphology and wear patterns suggesting a role in feather preening. Additionally, the research supports the existence of two major faunal interchanges between Asia and North America during the Cretaceous, distinguishing a Campanian North American clade (Saurornitholestinae) from an Asian clade that includes <em>Velociraptor</em> (Velociraptorinae). The findings advance understanding of dromaeosaurid evolution and biogeography in Dinosaur Provincial Park, Alberta.
Derwent Valley Mills
—
2019 —
WHE8EC4F39944
An innovative design-led strategy for UNESCO World Heritage Sites (WHS) balances transformation and preservation, demonstrated through the case study of Belper in the Derwent Valley Mills WHS. The research proposes treating heritage sites as palimpsests—layers of historical significance that can be reinforced while integrating modern development. This approach addresses derelict landscapes caused by industrial abandonment, offering a cohesive regeneration plan that enhances community life without compromising heritage integrity. By analyzing urban grain, natural environment, social landscape, and economic forces, the study knits together existing structures with mixed-use development, ensuring sustainability and cultural recognition in 21st-century contexts.
The Sundarbans
—
2019 —
WHEAE65EE9C1D
By the late 19th century, the Sundarbans' reserved and protected forests had become a significant economic asset, generating annual revenues of Rs. 2,79,408 with minimal expenditure (Rs. 65,251). This transformation was driven by early conservation efforts initiated in 1862 under Dr. Brandis, which evolved into a more structured system by 1873 under Mr. Home and Dr. Schlich. Their approach focused on regulating timber exports while setting size limits for sundri tree felling (3 cubits girth) and establishing royalty rates for sundri wood (½ anna per maund) and firewood (¼ anna per maund). Dr. Schlich's recommendation to place the entire unleased area under Forest Department control proved successful, marking a pivotal shift in forest management that balanced conservation with economic benefits.
Old Town of Corfu
—
2019 —
WHE2816588D8C
A study of the Antinioti Lagoon, Corfu Island, reveals that freshwater springs are the primary transport pathway for dissolved and particulate metals (Mn, Cd, Pb, Zn), while surface runoff dominates Al, Fe, and Cu. Large particles (>8 μm) show higher metal concentrations due to flocculation, which scavenges other metals and reduces their mobility. Sediments exhibit localized enrichment in Cd and Pb, with these metals predominantly in labile forms, posing potential ecological risks if environmental conditions change. The research used sediment core analysis and enrichment factors (EFs) to assess metal behavior and mobility.
Tiwanaku: Spiritual and Political Centre of the Tiwanaku Culture
—
2019 —
WHE3EBF8D82C8
A new analysis of 116 radiometric dates from the Azapa Valley, Chile, challenges the long-held association between Tiwanaku influence and the Middle Period (500–1000 AD). Contrary to previous assumptions, late ceramic styles linked to Tiwanaku (900–1100 AD) were not dominant in earlier centuries. Instead, local agricultural traditions persisted from the Formative period through the 8th century, with a distinct Phase II emerging around 500 AD characterized by Cabuza, Maitas, and Chiribaya styles. This phase suggests the development of a regional identity, culminating in the Arica Culture during the Late Intermediate Period (LIP). The study used Carbon-14 (C14) and thermoluminescence (TL) dating from nine cemeteries to refine chronological frameworks and redefine cultural continuity in the region.
