Old Town of Ghadamès
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2018 —
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In the ancient UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ghadamès, Libya, ground-floor spaces—traditionally associated with male domains—demonstrate greater spatial integration and visual connectivity than upper-floor spaces designated for women. This finding, derived from a quantitative space syntax analysis, reveals that movement through male-dominated areas is less restricted, offering more route choices compared to female-dominated spaces. The study further identifies physical mechanisms within the city that regulate privacy, either facilitating or impeding it, while also allowing users to adjust their own spatial behavior for privacy control. Conducted across nine community sites representing Arab, Barbar, and Tuareg cultural groups—analyzed both as embedded within Ghadamès and in isolation—the research highlights how spatial configuration reflects and reinforces social and cultural norms.
Historic City of Ahmadabad
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2018 —
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A case study of slum rehabilitation in Ahmedabad, India, reveals significant challenges in implementing public-private partnership (PPP) models for affordable housing under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), despite the involvement of a mediating NGO. While PPPs aim to leverage private sector finance and expertise alongside public land provision, this study highlights bottlenecks that hinder effective slum redevelopment, underscoring the complexities of integrating private sector participation in affordable housing initiatives.
Bolgar Historical and Archaeological Complex
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2018 —
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A comprehensive interdisciplinary study of the Bolgar Historical and Archaeological Complex was conducted through the 8th International Scientific Conference held in 2018. The research focused on the dialogue between urban and steppe cultures within the Eurasian space, particularly examining the Mongol Empire and Golden Horde's influence on material culture and technological advancements. A key aspect of the study involved a systematic analysis of Bolgar settlement, supported by the Bolgar Archaeological Expedition, which delved into the continuity of medieval cultural traditions and the establishment patterns of urban settlements in steppe Eurasia. The findings were part of a broader project investigating the ancient towns of Bolgar and Sviyazhsk from 2010 to 2018, providing significant insights into the historical geography and topographical characteristics of these regions.
Gough and Inaccessible Islands
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2018 —
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A comprehensive assessment of the distribution and seasonal occurrence of Procellaria conspicillata, a seabird species breeding on Gough, Inaccessible, and Tristan da Cunha Islands, reveals its broad migratory range across the Atlantic Ocean. This study identifies key latitudinal boundaries for its movement between 23°S and 36°S, spanning from southeastern Brazil to Uruguay along the South American coast, and corresponding regions off the African coast. Seasonal records in Brazil highlight its presence in southern and southeastern coastal areas, with notable sightings in Rio Grande do Sul (RS), Santa Catarina (SC), Paraná (PR), Espírito Santo (ES), and Bahia (BA) across various months, particularly from May to November. The research synthesizes historical data and observations, providing critical insights into the species' ecological distribution and migratory patterns.
Dholavira: a Harappan City
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2018 —
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Urbanization in medieval India (1206–1707) reflects a dynamic evolution in population, city structure, and functionality, tracing its roots back to the Indus Valley Civilization. Dholavira, a Harappan city, stands out for its advanced urban planning and drainage systems, exemplifying the region's early sophistication. This study highlights how medieval Indian cities—such as Mithila, Hastinapur, Mathura, Kaushambi, Pataliputra, and Kushinagar—continued and adapted these traditions, marking a second wave of urbanization distinct from ancient precedents. The research synthesizes historical evidence to illustrate the continuity and transformation of urban landscapes over five centuries, underscoring their enduring significance in India's cultural and architectural heritage.
Yakushima
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2018 —
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Fine-root productivity and morphological traits vary significantly along Yakushima Island's elevation gradient, reflecting species shifts more than temperature or nutrient availability alone. Middle-elevation broad-leaved forests exhibit higher fine-root biomass (0.123–0.297 kg/m²) and productivity (0.063–0.173 kg/m²/yr) compared to lower broad-leaved or upland coniferous forests, where biomass (0.092–0.097 kg/m²) and productivity (0.033–0.044 kg/m²/yr) are lower. Upland coniferous forests adapt to nutrient limitation or cooler climates by increasing fine-root lifespan and specific root length (SRL), rather than carbon allocation, reducing productivity. The study used the in-growth core method to measure these traits across seven forest sites (170–1550 m).
Hwaseong Fortress
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2018 —
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Suwon City's social media strategy, particularly on Facebook, proved effective in promoting Hwaseong Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in South Korea. The study analyzed network features, subordinate features, and semantic features from 2015 to 2017, revealing dynamic changes in promotion patterns over time. Key findings suggest that leveraging social media can significantly enhance public engagement with cultural heritage sites. The research provides actionable insights for refining promotional strategies, emphasizing the importance of adaptive content and network analysis in heritage site management.
Historic Centre of Mexico City and Xochimilco
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2018 —
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A novel approach to social-ecological transformation is demonstrated through the Xochimilco social-ecological system, showcasing how collaborative agency can drive sustainable change. The study identifies key mechanisms for fostering collective action, including community engagement and adaptive governance, which are critical for addressing environmental degradation while preserving cultural heritage. By analyzing local dynamics, the research highlights the potential of transformation-labs as innovative models for balancing ecological sustainability with social resilience in UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Xochimilco.
Historic Centre of Lima
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2018 —
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A structured approach to assessing seismic vulnerability in Lima's historic churches, part of the UNESCO-listed Historic Centre of Lima, has been proposed. This method combines a general diagnosis of urban and building issues with a preliminary survey to evaluate structural conditions, aiming to enhance earthquake safety. The study serves as a foundational framework for detailed investigations into preserving these heritage buildings, with potential applications beyond Lima to other historic cities in Peru. By establishing guidelines for vulnerability evaluation, the research contributes to broader efforts in urban security and conservation.
Old Towns of Djenné
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2018 —
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A critical analysis reveals that the protection of Djenné's architectural heritage, despite its UNESCO World Heritage status, has been undermined by a lack of coordinated strategy and widespread ignorance among key stakeholders. The study highlights how international and national interventions over two decades have often disregarded the constraints imposed by the site's designation, while decision-makers, funders, and local professionals exhibit a declining awareness of both the cultural value of Djenné's architecture and the technical expertise required for its preservation. This neglect has contributed to the town's inclusion on the List of World Heritage in Danger in 2016. The research underscores the urgent need for education and sensitization efforts to empower various actors, enabling them to make informed political and technical decisions that safeguard this irreplaceable heritage.
Angkor
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2018 —
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Angkor Wat, Cambodia's most iconic temple complex, faced severe deterioration during the Pol Pot regime (1975–1979), with significant structural damage and abandonment. The site was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage in Danger in 1992 due to neglect and looting, prompting international intervention. A turning point came in 1994 when UNESCO launched an appeal for Angkor's preservation, leading to the establishment of the Authority for the Protection and Management of Angkor and the Region of Siem Reap (APSARA) in 1995. This body, supported by a 1996 Cambodian heritage law, has since spearheaded conservation efforts, including restoration projects and sustainable tourism management. The paper highlights how collaborative governance between Cambodia and the international community has been pivotal in safeguarding Angkor Wat's cultural and archaeological integrity.
Nahanni National Park
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2018 —
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A groundbreaking analysis of obsidian flakes from Site 118X77 in Nahanni National Park Reserve, Canada, has revealed potential traces of processed animal proteins, offering new insights into ancient human activities in the region. The study employed protein residue (CIEP) analysis to identify possible animal-derived substances on the flakes, alongside obsidian sourcing to trace their origin. This dual approach provides a unique window into the dietary and technological practices of past inhabitants, contributing significantly to our understanding of archaeological sites within UNESCO-recognized areas like Nahanni National Park.
Ogasawara Islands
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2018 —
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The geographical distribution of the Norway rat, <em>Rattus norvegicus</em>, is constrained by protein-rich diets and water balance, as demonstrated through surveys across subarctic to tropical zones. In Hokkaido's uninhabited islands (Yururi-Moyururi), rats adapted to snow cover and seasonal recruitment, while in Yokohama, population fluctuations were observed. On Tokyo Bay's Kaiho-2 islet, dehydration halted recruitment during winter, leading to body mass loss due to fat consumption. Similarly, in the Ogasawara Archipelago's Hahajima Islands, chronic dehydration forced rats to rely on plant matter and lose weight. In contrast, urban environments like Bangkok and Chanthaburi, Thailand, supported rat populations by providing water system food sources. These findings highlight protein availability and hydration as critical factors shaping the rat's global distribution.
Anticosti
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2018 —
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Research on the Late Ordovician Macasty Formation in Anticosti, Canada, reveals that its organic-rich black shale was deposited under anoxic conditions during the Taconic orogeny. Neodymium isotope analysis indicates a predominantly Grenvillian provenance, with intense weathering of source rocks contributing to fine-grained detritus deposition. The study also highlights the enrichment of redox-sensitive elements (As, V, U) and high δ34S for pyrite, supporting anoxic conditions at the sediment-water interface. Calcite cement formation during low-temperature diagenesis (<60 °C) further explains the preservation of organic matter in this shale.
The Dolomites
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2018 —
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Despite efforts to promote contemporary architecture, the Dolomites region, particularly Belluno Province, grapples with widespread 'false alpine models'—repetitive, historically disconnected designs that dominate its architectural landscape. These structures, often favored by institutions due to regulatory constraints and limited innovation, overshadow genuine contemporary achievements. However, scattered examples of high-quality architecture demonstrate that when research, enlightened patronage, and modern design converge, they can elevate Belluno's standing in national and international architectural discourse. This study highlights the tension between traditional resistance and regulatory hurdles, contrasting them with pockets of successful innovation.
Provins, Town of Medieval Fairs
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2018 —
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Provins exemplifies effective cultural heritage management by preserving and revalorizing its medieval architecture and urban layout. The town, founded in the early medieval period and flourishing as a prominent fair town in the 12th and 13th centuries, boasts well-preserved monuments such as defensive walls, the Cesar tower, churches, and residential relics. Recognized by UNESCO in 2001, Provins serves as a model for other historic towns, demonstrating how authorities can fulfill obligations to maintain, protect, and educate communities about heritage conservation. This study highlights Provins' successful approach, offering insights into best practices for cultural heritage management.
Ha Long Bay - Cat Ba Archipelago
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2018 —
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Ha Long Bay - Cat Ba Archipelago, proposed as the first Particularly Sensitive Sea Area (PSSA) for Vietnam, offers a critical solution to protect its rich marine biodiversity. This designation, recognized by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), aims to mitigate threats from maritime activities, particularly international shipping, which pose significant risks to this isolated and ecologically vital region. The proposal highlights the need for protective measures to safeguard the unique marine life of Vietnam's coastal zones, contributing to the broader conservation efforts in the western tropical Pacific. The research underscores the urgency of identifying PSSAs to preserve these fragile ecosystems from increasing human-induced pressures.
Kahuzi-Biega National Park
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2018 —
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A study in Kahuzi-Biega National Park, Democratic Republic of Congo, reveals that fern-dominated forests (Pteridaie) play a crucial role in the recolonization and succession of degraded areas, contributing to forest reconstruction. The research highlights the significance of these fern patches in the park's vegetation dynamics, particularly at altitudes ranging from 1531 to 2452 meters with acidic soils. Canonical Correspondence Analyses demonstrated significant relationships between environmental variables and plant species diversity, emphasizing the complexity and importance of these forests for conservation efforts. The findings underscore the need for closer attention to Chablis and Edge forest diversity to ensure effective management and protection of plant species in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Cambodian Memorial Sites: From centres of repression to places of peace and reflection
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2018 —
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Public memorial art serves as a crucial educational tool, filling gaps in historical understanding for young Cambodians who lack direct experience with the Khmer Rouge regime (1975–1979). This study highlights how three rural mural sites function as landscapes of public pedagogy, depicting atrocities and supplementing institutional and living memory pedagogies. By analyzing these memorials, researchers demonstrate their potential to shape historical memory and education in Cambodia and beyond. The approach combines cultural geography with qualitative analysis of public art's impact on collective understanding.
Virunga National Park
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2018 —
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Virunga National Park, located in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), exemplifies the complex interplay between conservation efforts and conflict dynamics. Research reveals that while transnational actors have increased their influence over park management, this has not strengthened state authority but instead contributed to a 'state within a state' phenomenon. The militarization of conservation in Virunga, often seen as extending state control, actually fosters extra-state territorialization practices. This challenges conventional notions of state authority and suggests that the intersection of conservation and territorialization should be analyzed through the lens of public authority rather than preconceived state frameworks.
Ancient City of Polonnaruwa
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2018 —
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A realistic virtual reality (VR) application, 'Porawalokanaya,' has been developed to digitally preserve and experience the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sri Lanka. The application leverages advanced 3D modeling techniques using Autodesk Maya and Mudbox to capture intricate architectural details, combined with natural environments for an immersive experience. Built on the Unity platform with C# scripting, 'Porawalokanaya' offers users interactive exploration, narration, and a mini-map, simulating real-world visits. This innovative approach demonstrates how technology can effectively preserve and present prestigious heritage sites, bridging gaps between historical preservation and modern digital experiences.
Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve
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2018 —
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Between 1986 and 2012, the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve in Central Mexico experienced a net increase of 3,798 hectares of forest, yet this recovery is slowing. A study combining satellite imagery analysis with field interviews (n=43) revealed that most of this regrowth—estimated between 58 and 429 hectares—was due to natural regrowth (passive reforestation) on previously degraded lands rather than active reforestation efforts. Reduced logging and grazing pressures were key drivers, while agricultural abandonment had less influence than previously thought. The findings suggest prioritizing investments in maintaining forest resilience over costly reforestation programs.
Grand Canyon National Park
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2018 —
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Sandbar campsites along the Colorado River in Grand Canyon National Park, used by over 25,000 visitors annually, have shrunk by 37% between 2002 and 2016 due to flow regulation from Glen Canyon Dam. While controlled floods temporarily increase sandbar size, long-term campsite area declines because of erosion between floods and vegetation expansion, particularly in noncritical reaches. Critical reaches experience more erosion and slope change than noncritical ones. The study quantified these changes using aerial imagery and digital elevation models, revealing that manual vegetation removal may be necessary for future management to stabilize campsite areas.
Kathmandu Valley
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2018 —
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A significant deterioration in water quality is observed from upstream to downstream areas of the Kathmandu Valley, Nepal, with built-up land uses having the most pronounced impact. The study, conducted across nine perennial watersheds during the 2016 monsoon and 2017 pre-monsoon periods, used a combination of Rapid Stream Assessment (RSA) protocols, water quality measurements, and streamflow data to quantify these linkages. Results indicated that upstream locations in six watersheds maintained near-natural status (RQC 1), suitable for all uses after standard treatment, while downstream areas across all nine watersheds exhibited the most impaired river quality (RQC 5). A pixel-based supervised classification method was employed to analyze land-use data from a 2015 Landsat 8 image. The findings underscore the critical need for integrated land and water management, particularly in addressing waste management challenges in the Kathmandu Valley.
Ancient Thebes with its Necropolis
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2018 —
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Retrograde writing in Theban tombs during Egypt's Late Period serves a functional theological purpose, visually representing the deceased's journey through the Duat and rebirth with the sun god. Unlike conventional hieroglyphic directionality, retrograde script inverts reading sequences—horizontally or vertically—to symbolize this spiritual passage. Analysis of Asasif necropolis tombs reveals that this practice was not merely decorative but integral to expressing eschatological beliefs, providing tangible evidence for how ancient Egyptians conceptualized the afterlife. The study combines epigraphic and iconographic analysis to demonstrate retrograde writing's role in funerary art, offering new insights into Late Period religious practices.
La Chaux-de-Fonds / Le Locle, Watchmaking Town Planning
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2018 —
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A critical examination of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of La Chaux-de-Fonds / Le Locle challenges the dominant narrative that their urban planning, known as 'urbanisme horloger,' was inherently linked to the social organization of watchmaking communities. The study focuses on a key 1835 planning document by Charles-Henri Junod, revealing discrepancies between its interpretation and the broader heritage narrative. This analysis highlights both the complexities and opportunities in how planning histories are publicly disseminated and appropriated by diverse actors, offering new perspectives on urban heritage-making processes.
Cathedral, Alcázar and Archivo de Indias in Seville
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2018 —
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Sixteenth-century accounting ledgers (hijuelas) from Seville’s Reales Alcázares reveal previously overlooked insights into racial and labor dynamics within a royal institution. These records, often dismissed as mere financial documents, document workers' backgrounds—including wages, accommodations, and the transaction of enslaved individuals—challenging long-standing scholarly narratives about early modern working life in Seville. By analyzing these understudied hijuelas, the study exposes the complexities of labor and race in a colonial context, offering a nuanced perspective on the Alcázar’s operational realities.
Ujung Kulon National Park
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2018 —
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A study of Ujung Kulon National Park, Indonesia, identified eight species of saprophytic fungi belonging to six genera—Collybia, Crepidotus, Hygrocybe, Lepiota, Marasmius, and Mycena. These fungi play a crucial role in decomposing dead organic matter, contributing to ecosystem sustainability. The research highlights the importance of documenting fungal diversity, often overlooked in biodiversity studies, which can inform future conservation efforts and the development of Indonesia's biodiversity potential. Fungal identification relied on macroscopic characteristics, providing foundational data for understanding saprophytic fungi in tropical ecosystems.
Lagoons of New Caledonia: Reef Diversity and Associated Ecosystems
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2018 —
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Heavy rainfall or tropical storms can dramatically increase chlorophyll-a concentration, turbidity, and colored dissolved organic matter (CDOM) in New Caledonia's lagoons, with effects detectable up to 50 km offshore. The eastern coast is more affected due to its geomorphology, frequent intense rains, and erosive lateritic formations from ultramafic rocks. Satellite imagery and oceanographic measurements reveal that these increases—visible as plumes extending offshore—affect deeper lagoon areas (>20 m) and extend to coral barrier reefs. While large particles settle near river outflows, fine particles (<10 µm), colloids, and CDOM are transported to reefs, potentially benefiting corals by shielding them from UV radiation or providing nutrients. However, the impact of trace metal distribution from these particles on coral health remains uncertain.
Anticosti
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2018 —
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A significant range extension for the threatened Red Crossbill (Loxia curvirostra percna) has been identified on Anticosti Island, Québec, Canada. This discovery expands the known distribution of the subspecies, which was previously considered limited to the Gaspe Peninsula and the Charlevoix region. Researchers used a combination of field observations, acoustic monitoring, and genetic analysis to document the presence of Red Crossbills on Anticosti Island, confirming their breeding activity and providing insights into their ecological adaptability. The study highlights the importance of this newly identified population for conservation efforts, particularly in light of habitat changes and climate variability.
Mont-Saint-Michel and its Bay
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2018 —
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A robust network of supply, communication, and financial support sustained the French garrison at Mont-Saint-Michel during English occupation (1417–1450), challenging the narrative of its isolated resistance. This study reveals that the fortress's resilience was underpinned by continuous logistical and strategic ties to Charles VII's territories, enabling proactive military operations in northern France—including disruptions against English interests in Lorraine—long before the region's reconquest. Contrasting earlier historical accounts, which attributed success solely to local heroism or natural defenses, this research highlights the broader organizational capacity of the Dauphin's faction, leveraging maritime routes (e.g., Malouins support) and inland alliances to maintain operational momentum.
Aphrodisias
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2018 —
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A new perspective on 'duplicate' inscriptions reveals that identical or similar texts should be studied independently, not merely as copies. By analyzing differences between such inscriptions at the Sebasteion in Aphrodisias, researchers uncovered nuanced insights into monumental messaging and its perception by ancient audiences. The study highlights a deliberate planning process where architectural context—spaces, decorations, and textual arrangement—shaped how distinctions and hierarchies were visually communicated to Roman viewers. Contrasting these findings with near-identical dedications at the Hadrianic baths further elucidates the phenomenon of duplicate dedications, offering deeper understanding of epigraphic presentation in classical antiquity.
Koh Ker: Archaeological Site of Ancient Lingapura or Chok Gargyar
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2018 —
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Palaeoecological and geoarchaeological evidence reveals that Koh Ker, Cambodia, remained occupied by its domestic population for several centuries after the royal court relocated to Angkor in the 10th century. This challenges the long-held assumption that the city's abandonment by the elite marked the end of its occupation. The study employed multi-proxy environmental reconstructions—including sediment analysis and plant remains—to trace human activity and land use patterns, demonstrating their persistence well beyond the documented political shifts. These findings underscore the value of integrating palaeoecological data to refine our understanding of Khmer urban dynamics during the Angkor period.
Aachen Cathedral
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2018 —
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Spatial compression techniques enable users to traverse larger virtual environments than their physical tracking area allows, enhancing the immersive experience of Virtual Reality (VR). This demo showcases ongoing research by demonstrating real walking through a detailed model of Aachen Cathedral within a room-sized tracking space. By addressing the mismatch between VR tracking limits and virtual environment size, this approach preserves the natural intuitiveness of walking while expanding exploration capabilities in VR applications.
Historic City of Toledo
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2018 —
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Toledo, Spain's historic city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, faces significant challenges as a cultural tourist destination despite its global recognition. This study highlights the complexities of managing tourism in such heritage-rich urban areas, emphasizing issues like overcrowding, preservation threats, and the need for sustainable development. Using a critical analysis of diverse sources and participant observation, the research provides a holistic examination of Toledo's principal features as a tourist site while addressing practical problems, errors, and potential solutions. It offers valuable insights for planners and managers of historic cities, proposing reflections and future-oriented strategies to balance tourism growth with cultural preservation.
Peking Man Site at Zhoukoudian
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2018 —
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Recent research on Chinese human evolution highlights the complexity and diversity of Pleistocene hominin populations. While no confirmed human fossils older than 2 million years have been found, the earliest Homo erectus fossil, the Lantian Gongwangling skull (1.15–1.63 million years old), suggests a significant presence in China during this period. New discoveries, such as crania from Lingjing, Xuchang, and fossils from Huanglong Cave, Zhiren Cave, and Daoxian, reveal a mosaic of morphological traits indicative of both local archaic humans and early modern Homo sapiens (100–80 ka BP). These findings challenge simple linear models of human evolution, suggesting possible genetic mixing between Chinese and European ancient humans. The research also indicates that fully modern morphology likely emerged first in southern China before dispersing northward, with northern populations like those from Xujiayao retaining primitive traits longer.
Medina of Sousse
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2018 —
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A recent analysis of a Latin inscription from the Medina of Sousse, Tunisia, reveals the resurgence of Semitic religious vocabulary in Roman Africa. The term <i>moctor</i>, identified as an unprecedented clerical function, is traced to the Semitic root KTR/QTR, meaning 'offering incense.' This finding suggests a cultural continuity between Phoenicio-Punic traditions and Roman religious practices in North Africa, particularly in cities with deep Phoenician roots. The study supports broader evidence of Semitic linguistic influence persisting in Roman provincial contexts, underscoring the enduring impact of ancient Near Eastern cults on local religious language.
Old Town of Corfu
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2018 —
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A novel approach combining Geographical Information System (GIS) and Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) successfully identified erosion risk zones on the island of Corfu, Greece. The model, validated by field data, demonstrated high accuracy in predicting areas vulnerable to erosion due to their lithology and exposure to heavy rainfall. This method offers a robust tool for assessing erosion risks in regions with similar geological and climatic conditions.
Joya de Cerén Archaeological Site
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2018 —
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Research at the Joya de Cerén Archaeological Site in El Salvador has uncovered exceptionally well-preserved evidence of pre-Hispanic agricultural practices, including furrows from maize fields dating to the Late Classic Period. Analysis of soil carbon isotopes (δ13C) revealed that C4 plants, such as maize, were cultivated in the region before the volcanic eruption of Ilopango. Similar findings were observed at other sites like Antiguo Cuscatlan and Monseñor Oscar Arnulfo Romero Boulevard, where grooves under volcanic ash layers provided clues to past agricultural activities. The study highlights the potential of soil analysis to reconstruct ancient farming practices when direct plant remains are absent.
Historic Centre of Mexico City and Xochimilco
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2018 —
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A paleoenvironmental reconstruction of the Xochimilco sub-basin, central Mexico, reveals significant millennial-scale climatic oscillations between 18,000 and 5,000 years ago. The study identifies distinct periods characterized by variations in erosion, iron mineral origins, salinity, productivity, and organic matter sources, linked to deglaciation events such as the Younger Dryas and the Bølling/Allerød warming. During the early Holocene (11,700–8,200 years ago), the region experienced its driest conditions, while the mid-Holocene (8,200–5,000 years ago) saw a return to humid conditions and the establishment of a freshwater lake, likely supporting riverside communities. The research leverages magnetic mineral indicators, major element content, and diatom associations, anchored by two key volcanic ash layers (Pómez Tutti Frutti and Pómez Toluca Superior) and radiocarbon dating.
Tiwanaku: Spiritual and Political Centre of the Tiwanaku Culture
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2018 —
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A novel approach using 3D printing has revealed fresh insights into the reconstruction of Tiwanaku's Pumapunku, a pre-Colombian architectural marvel looted during the colonial era. By digitizing and scaling down historic measurements of shattered stone blocks, researchers created tactile 3D models that allowed for intuitive testing of fragment fits. This hands-on methodology uncovered unexpected connections among the fragments, offering new perspectives on the site's original design. The study demonstrates the potential of 3D printing to transform centuries-old documentation into actionable research tools, benefiting both scholars and indigenous site managers.
Medieval Town of Toruń
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2018 —
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Researchers have successfully reconstructed the pre-13th-century natural environment of medieval Toruń, Poland, and its suburbs, including primary relief, surface geology, and hydrology. This pioneering quantitative reconstruction combines topographical, geological, and historical data to provide a foundation for understanding biotic components and verifying hypotheses about the town's founding and development. Despite limitations, the study offers valuable insights into the environmental conditions that shaped Toruń's early spatial organization.
Tikal National Park
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2018 —
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A rare nesting behavior of the Orange-breasted Falcon (Falco deiroleucus) has been documented in urban and suburban areas of northwestern Argentina, expanding its known habitat beyond mature forests. This study reports on falcon sightings and behaviors in modified landscapes, including cultivated fields, orchards, and pastures, challenging the notion that this species is strictly confined to forested regions. The research utilized field observations and records to capture foraging patterns and nesting attempts in non-forest environments, providing new insights into the adaptability of this falcon species. Notably, while breeding territories remain predominantly in mature forests, individuals have been observed utilizing fragmented habitats, suggesting a greater resilience to human-altered landscapes than previously recognized.
Archaeological Site of Nalanda Mahavihara at Nalanda, Bihar
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2018 —
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The revival of Nalanda Mahavihara as a symbol of shared inter-Asian heritage highlights its unique role in shaping and being shaped by global politics, ideas, objects, texts, and travelers. This multidisciplinary collection decodes cultural authenticity and heritage valuation, offering critical perspectives on regional dynamics, racial politics, and hegemonic discourses across Southeast and East Asia. It provides nuanced views on the interconnected tangible and intangible heritage that defines this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Etruscan Necropolises of Cerveteri and Tarquinia
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2018 —
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A lost wall painting from the 5th-century BCE Tomb of the Blue Demons in Tarquinia, Italyhas been recovered using advanced multispectral imaging techniques. Researchers employed a combination of multispectral reflectometry and ultraviolet (UV) fluorescence imaging to capture details invisible to the naked eye. By analyzing images taken across wavelengths from 370 to 1120 nm, they applied blind-source separation algorithms to extract hidden features, offering new insights into the tomb's ancient artistry. This non-invasive method, tested over a decade on Etruscan and Roman wall paintings, proves to be both quick and cost-effective, making it ideal for studying poorly preserved archaeological sites before conservation efforts.
Møns Klint
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2018 —
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Recurrent hybridisation between Primula vulgaris, P. veris, and P. elatior challenges traditional species boundaries at Møns Klint, Denmark. Genetic analysis of 168 specimens revealed that many previously identified hybrids, such as P. × digenea (P. vulgaris × P. elatior) and P. × polyantha (P. veris × P. vulgaris), are later-generation backcrosses rather than first-generation hybrids. Molecular markers also uncovered unexpected ancestry in some specimens, including P. veris genetic material in a P. vulgaris plant, suggesting greater genetic exchange than previously recognised. The study used species-specific SNPs, chloroplast trn L polymorphisms, and simple sequence repeats to re-evaluate morphological identifications, providing insights into hybridisation dynamics that complicate taxonomic distinctions.
Historic Cairo
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2018 —
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Historic Cairo's streets, renowned for their intimacy and walkability, are threatened by rapid socio-cultural changes. The study reveals that the integration of static and dynamic spaces—determined by enclosure degree, wall thickness, opening width, and activity nature—is crucial to maintaining urban space functionality and behavioral needs. Through observational analysis, researchers identified how these spatial variations adapt to community requirements, offering insights into preserving the city's unique character amid modernization pressures.
Venice and its Lagoon
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2018 —
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A long-forgotten Mediterranean species of green algae, Chaetomorpha stricta, has been rediscovered in the Venice Lagoon after being mistakenly classified as a synonym for another species. This study reinstates C. stricta to its original species rank based on morphological and molecular analyses, distinguishing it by its unique cell structure and genetic data. The rediscovery occurred in 2011 in an oligotrophic fishing pond within the northern basin of the lagoon. Researchers also provide a critical review of Chaetomorpha taxa in the Mediterranean and a taxonomic key to aid identification. This finding highlights the importance of revisiting historical records and using modern techniques to uncover overlooked biodiversity, even in well-studied regions like the Venice Lagoon.
Historic Centre of Mexico City and Xochimilco
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2018 —
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A freshwater nemertean, <em>Prostoma graecense</em>, previously thought lost to science for 75 years, has been rediscovered in Lake Xochimilco. This finding resolves its long-standing taxonomic identity through combined morphological and molecular analysis, including mitochondrial DNA sequencing. The study suggests the species may have a cosmopolitan distribution, potentially introduced to distant regions from its unknown original range. This rediscovery highlights the importance of integrating molecular data into nemertean research and provides a foundation for future studies on both freshwater and marine species in this group.
Orkhon Valley Cultural Landscape
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2018 —
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Mongolian chess figures from the 13th century, likely crafted during Hulagu Khan's military campaigns to the Middle East (1217–1265), reveal a unique blend of military strategy and artistic expression. These miniature sculptures, with faces modeled after real kings, suggest that chess was used as a tool for learning tactical warfare. The Buddhist style of the figures indicates that Ogedei Khan, who established Karakorum (Kharkhorin) in the Orkhon Valley, was likely represented in these sets. This study builds on previous research by dating the chess figures more precisely and analyzing their cultural significance within the Mongol Empire's historical context.
