City of Cuzco
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2016 —
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Researchers have identified a new species of the frog genus <em>Psychrophrynella</em> in the humid montane forests of Cusco, Peru. This discovery, described from specimens collected between 2,670 and 3,165 meters elevation near Japu, distinguishes the species through unique morphological traits—such as a tarsal tubercle and yellow ventral coloration—and a multi-note advertisement call, setting it apart from related species like <em>P. bagrecito</em> and <em>P. usurpator</em>. The frog exhibits a snout-vent length of 16.1–24.1 mm in males and 23.3–27.7 mm in females, aligning with the genus's high-altitude Andean distribution pattern. Like other recently described <em>Psychrophrynella</em> species, this find likely reflects a restricted geographic range, underscoring the region's biodiversity significance.
Gunung Mulu National Park
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2016 —
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A new species of the moss genus <em>Syrrhopodon</em> (Calymperaceae) has been identified from limestone mountains in Gunung Mulu National Park, Sarawak. The discovery was based on a small series of specimens collected by J.M. Camus and previously reported by Ellis (1991). This robust, higher-altitude species adds to the biodiversity of the region's bryophyte flora. The study highlights the importance of thorough taxonomic examination in revealing cryptic diversity within mosses, particularly in ecologically significant areas like Gunung Mulu National Park.
Sangay National Park
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2016 —
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Researchers have identified a new species of frog, Pristimantis tinguichaca, within the cloud forests of Sangay National Park, Ecuador. This discovery belongs to the Pristimantis unistrigatus group and is distinguished by unique morphological traits such as small conical tubercles on its upper eyelids and heels, along with a reddish iris. The species also exhibits distinct ulnar and tarsal tubercles and produces a single, sharp metallic call. Stomach content analysis revealed that its diet primarily consists of beetles (51.7%). The study highlights the biodiversity of Sangay National Park and contributes to the understanding of amphibian diversity in Andean cloud forests.
Wadden Sea
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2016 —
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A numerical model of the Wadden Sea reveals that estuarine circulation intensity and its variability are driven by gravitational and wind straining, with regional differences observed among tidal gullies. The study assesses the model's accuracy using field data from 2009–2011, including surface elevation, current velocity, temperature, and salinity, alongside satellite imagery and ship observations. Key findings highlight that longitudinal buoyancy gradients dominate exchange flow in some inlets, while wind straining is more influential in others. The research also quantifies tidal straining, which varies based on local topography, wind direction, and freshwater runoff, providing insights into the complex hydrodynamics of this UNESCO-listed ecosystem.
Budapest, including the Banks of the Danube, the Buda Castle Quarter and Andrássy Avenue
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2016 —
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Alfréd Perlmutter's eclectic art collection, blending Eastern and Western influences, showcases his unique aesthetic sensibility that transcended historical periods. The study reveals how Perlmutter's refined taste, inspired by international travels and exposure to elite collections, resulted in a harmonious fusion of Chinese ceramics, Flemish tapestries, and Renaissance Italian works. However, the collection suffered significant losses during World War II due to forced sales, expropriations, and displacement, with only a fraction surviving in museum holdings or private hands. The research highlights the fragility of private art collections in times of political upheaval, emphasizing the irreversible impact of historical events on cultural heritage.
Cidade Velha, Historic Centre of Ribeira Grande
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2016 —
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Artisanal fishing in Cidade Velha, Cabo Verde, persists as the predominant livelihood activity despite the city's UNESCO World Heritage status. This study reveals that local fishermen employ simple yet effective strategies to navigate dual constraints—environmental regulations and heritage preservation—ensuring the continuity of their traditional practice. By analyzing the dynamic interplay between cultural heritage and sustainable resource use, researchers highlight how communities adapt to patrimonialization without compromising their economic foundation. The findings underscore the resilience of artisanal fishing as both a cultural pillar and an adaptive survival tactic in heritage-protected urban spaces.
Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes
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2016 —
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A preliminary study on Jeju Island's volcanic activity reveals significant eruptive volumes for three monogenetic volcanoes: Songak-san, Bi-yang-do, and Ilchul-bong. Using a model adapted from New Zealand's Auckland volcanic region, researchers calculated their eruption volumes at approximately 24.99 million m³, 9.65 million m³, and 10.37 million m³, respectively. These findings provide critical data for assessing volcanic hazards on Jeju Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its unique volcanic landscapes. The study highlights the importance of precise volume calculations in understanding past eruptions and mitigating future risks.
Venice and its Lagoon
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2016 —
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A novel procedure using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) was successfully developed to quantify total iodine levels, offering a precise method for biomonitoring. Applied to seaweeds from Venice's lagoon, the technique revealed significant iodine concentrations in these marine organisms, providing critical data on environmental iodine distribution and potential ecological impacts. The study highlights ICP-MS as a reliable tool for trace element analysis in complex matrices, with implications for monitoring water quality and biological health in coastal ecosystems.
Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park with the Archeological Sites of Paestum and Velia, and the Certosa di Padula
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2016 —
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Underwater archaeological routes proposed for the Protected Marine Area of Santa Maria di Castellabate aim to integrate natural and historical heritage, revealing a rich underwater landscape with Roman-era shipwrecks and WWII relics amid seagrass meadows. The project seeks to promote sustainable tourism by showcasing coastal quarries, a Roman harbor, and remnants of maritime villas with ancient aquaculture systems. This approach offers a novel way to preserve and present archaeological heritage while enhancing public engagement with both terrestrial and submerged cultural landmarks.
Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, Northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island
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2016 —
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Scientists captured the first documented images of a Fairy Pitta (Pitta nympha) on Amami-Oshima Island, Japan, using camera traps. The bird was recorded twice within 12 seconds at 6:35 PM on May 18, 2015, marking the species' first confirmed presence on the island. This discovery expands the known distribution of the Fairy Pitta, a small, colorful songbird native to Southeast Asia and the Sunda Islands. The study relied on camera trapping—a non-invasive method for documenting wildlife—highlighting its utility in recording rare or elusive species in their natural habitats.
Kuk Early Agricultural Site
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2016 —
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A renewed analysis of archaeological and archaeobotanical remains from Kuk Swamp, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Papua New Guinea, reveals the presence of domesticated plants such as sugar cane (Saccharum officinarum) and probable sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas), pushing back the timeline of early agriculture in the region. The study utilized direct accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) dating on macrobotanical remains, distinguishing at least two distinct periods of settlement. This research provides a more reliable taxonomic identification of plant remains, offering significant insights into the origins and development of agricultural practices in the highlands of Papua New Guinea.
Cerrado Protected Areas: Chapada dos Veadeiros and Emas National Parks
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2016 —
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Private Natural Heritage Reserves (RPPNs) play a crucial role in biodiversity conservation, engaging landowners and promoting ecoturism. A study assessed the implementation of 21 RPPNs around Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park, covering approximately 21,516 hectares—about one-third of the park's area—and 1.4% of the studied region. While these reserves contribute significantly to conservation and ecoturism, they lack robust monitoring and management tools. The research highlights the need for strategic monitoring frameworks to quantify the benefits of RPPNs in preserving the Cerrado biome.
Namib Sand Sea
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2016 —
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A review of late Quaternary environmental change in Namibia reveals that the modern landscapes of southern and central Namibia are primarily shaped by tectonics, lithology, base level, and climate. Geomorphological analysis indicates that the Namib Sand Sea has a residence time of at least 1 million years, with dune sediments dating back to MIS 5, the Last Glacial Maximum, and the Holocene. Marine records suggest wetter summer conditions and increased seasonality during Southern Hemisphere insolation maxima and the last glacial period compared to the Holocene and the last interglacial period. Additionally, landscape degradation in northern Namibia, likely initiated by pre-colonial cattle farming, contrasts with past open savanna environments. These findings highlight the significance of geomorphological evidence for managing contemporary and future environmental conditions.
Meidan Emam, Esfahan
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2016 —
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Naqsh-e Jahan Square in Esfahan, Iran, embodies the dynamic identity of Iranian architecture, reflecting its evolution and resilience over centuries. This study identifies key identifier characteristics that define this urban space as a significant manifestation of Iranian civilization, tracing its formation and transformation from inception to the present day. The research employs a descriptive-analytical approach, leveraging historical texts and field data to document interventions and extract lessons for future conservation efforts. By focusing on Naqsh-e Jahan Square, the study offers insights into how urban spaces preserve cultural identity, providing a model for understanding and safeguarding similar heritage sites globally.
Royal Tombs of the Joseon Dynasty
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2016 —
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During 2013–2014, Korean art history research expanded its scope and methodology, particularly focusing on Joseon Dynasty arts, including the Royal Tombs of the Joseon Dynasty. Studies increasingly emphasized Confucian rituals and their influence on royal practices, while Buddhist arts post-dating major conflicts like the Japanese Invasion (1592) and Manchu War (1636) were also examined. A shift toward visual culture analysis marked a departure from traditional iconology and stylistic methods, reflecting broader methodological developments in art history. This period saw Korean art history extending beyond academic boundaries, though its evolution remains ongoing.
Historic Areas of Istanbul
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2016 —
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A semi-automated methodology for 3D façade modelling of cultural heritage assets has been developed, leveraging parametric and procedural modelling techniques with airborne and terrestrial laser scanning data. This approach significantly reduces the time and resources required for traditional architectural surveys while maintaining high accuracy in documentation. The methodology was successfully implemented using an open-source software environment and applied to a 16th-century Ottoman structure, Sinan the Architect’s Şehzade Mosque in Istanbul, Turkey. By combining advanced laser scanning technologies with procedural modelling, this study advances the field of cultural heritage documentation, offering a robust and efficient solution for preserving historical structures.
Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes
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2016 —
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Researchers identified a promising method to significantly reduce the permeability of stream beds on Jeju Island, which is primarily composed of highly permeable basalt and volcanic ash soil. This approach aims to preserve underground water resources by allowing streams to carry water year-round instead of only during precipitation. The study demonstrated that layering volcanic ash soil and Jumunjin sand on porous basalt dramatically decreased water permeability in controlled experiments. This finding offers a practical solution for addressing Jeju Island's water scarcity issues, potentially providing a realistic method for conserving its critical underground water resources.
Bisotun
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2016 —
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A nuanced understanding of Zoroastrianism's role in late antique Iranian political culture emerges from Richard E. Payne's work, challenging the myth of Zoroastrian intolerance towards Christians and other religious groups. Payne's research, grounded in Middle Persian texts, reveals a hierarchical structure within non-Zoroastrian beliefs, with Christians and Jews facing suppression rather than elimination. He argues that Christian hagiographies often exaggerate persecution, while also highlighting the participation of middle-ranking Christian elites in Sasanian society through land claims and lineage connections. The study further explores how Iranian Christians, despite their minority status, integrated into Zoroastrian systems, as seen in the re-imagining of Bisotun as a site of Christian martyrdom. Payne's approach combines textual analysis with historical context to present a balanced view of religious coexistence and conflict in Sasanian Iran.
Cologne Cathedral
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2016 —
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Gerhard Richter’s ‘Cologne Cathedral Window’ embodies a paradoxical presence of absence, blending the sacred and profane through its abstract yet evocative form. This study deciphers how Richter’s work, installed in the cathedral’s choir, challenges traditional notions of religious art while resonating with the monument’s historical layers. By analyzing the window’s visual and symbolic dimensions—its interplay of light, color, and architectural context—the research reveals its role as a modern intervention that both honors and disrupts the cathedral’s heritage. The approach combines close formal analysis with contextual framing, situating Richter’s piece within the broader discourse on memory, modernity, and the preservation of cultural landmarks.
Melaka and George Town, Historic Cities of the Straits of Malacca
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2016 —
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Tourism-driven activities significantly reshape the streetscapes of historic quarters, with George Town (Malaysia) and Hanoi (Vietnam) exhibiting both shared patterns and distinct differences. These variations arise from differing conservation strategies and tourism policies, despite similar impacts from visitor influx. The study introduces a novel typology classifying tourist-oriented business elements—such as primary/secondary markets and additional services—to analyze streetscape transformations. Findings reveal that while both cities experience tourism-induced changes, their façade and activity elements diverge due to localized governance approaches. This research underscores the need for sustainable planning frameworks tailored to historic quarters in rapidly evolving Asian urban landscapes.
Sydney Opera House
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2016 —
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A systematic analysis of the Sydney Opera House's conservation management reveals how five major renovation projects have shaped its preservation strategy. The study identifies distinct phases in the site's maintenance, categorizing renovations and their impact on structural performance over time. By mapping these interventions against evolving conservation needs, researchers uncover a dynamic mechanism that balances heritage integrity with functional demands. This approach provides a model for adaptive management of iconic cultural sites, emphasizing the importance of long-term planning in conservation efforts.
Royal Tombs of the Joseon Dynasty
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2016 —
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Joseon Royal Tombs, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, embody a unique blend of Confucian, Taoist, and Buddhist philosophies in their architectural design. This study reveals that while these tombs inherited elements from Goryeo Dynasty's Buddhist-influenced tombs, they distinctively reflect Confucian hierarchy and Taoist Feng-shui principles in their spatial organization and location selection—prioritizing 'back mountain, front river' landscapes. The research combines literature review and field studies to dissect the constructional intentions, ideas, and aesthetic consciousness embedded in these tombs' layout, elements (architecture, landscaping, stone objects), and historical forest settings. Notably, Confucian rituals during ceremonies serve as a tangible link between the tombs' design philosophy and contemporary practices.
Complex of Koguryo Tombs
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2016 —
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A study analyzing the female hair styles depicted in the murals of Anak Tomb No. 3, part of the UNESCO-listed Complex of Koguryo Tombs, reveals intricate and historically significant representations. These hairstyles offer valuable insights into the cultural and social practices of the Goguryeo period (37 BC–668 AD). The research employed a detailed examination of the tomb's murals, focusing on stylistic elements such as coiffure techniques, adornments, and symbolic meanings. By comparing these findings with other contemporary sources, the study underscores the importance of hair styles in understanding gender roles and artistic traditions during this era.
Hwaseong Fortress
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2016 —
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A study on the Suwon Hwaseong Fortress reveals that story-based, interactive smart content—such as animations—can significantly enhance tourists' experiential value and learning outcomes at historical sites. The research found that users with a strong interest in history tend to evaluate such educational and entertaining (edutainment) content more positively, showing higher intent for reuse. This suggests potential for these digital tools to deepen engagement and knowledge retention during visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Hwaseong Fortress. The approach involved developing linear and interactive animations that blend storytelling with historical narratives, focusing on the construction processes and engineering techniques used in the fortress's creation under King Jeongjo of Joseon. User evaluations indicated a positive correlation between historical interest and content satisfaction, highlighting the effectiveness of edutainment strategies in educational tourism.
Jongmyo Shrine
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2016 —
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A transcendental sense, deeper than religion or science, can be rationally understood through Numinose Theory. This study reveals that the concept of 'numinosity'—a profound, awe-inspiring emotion—offers a new framework for interpreting spatial design and artistic objects without relying on dogmatic logic. By applying Rudolf Otto's theory to Jongmyo Shrine's Jeongjeon, researchers demonstrate its potential as a tool for aesthetically analyzing sacred spaces, bridging the gap between subjective experience and systematic understanding.
Changdeokgung Palace Complex
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2016 —
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A comparative analysis of the Oungak area at Gyeongbokgung Palace and the Ocryucheon at Changdeokgung Palace reveals striking functional and spatial similarities, suggesting a deliberate replication of leisure and relaxation features from one site to another during King Kojong's reign. Both areas, located in the northernmost part of their respective rear gardens, incorporated elements like pavilions for scenic views, waterways designed to mimic the Curve-Stream Banquet, and habitable structures, indicating a consistent approach to royal leisure spaces in Joseon Dynasty palaces. The study highlights how the Oungak area, with its unique topography-dependent design, served as a substitute for Ocryucheon, emphasizing the importance of rear garden functionality in palace architecture.
Complex of Hué Monuments
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2016 —
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Hue, the capital of the Nguyen Dynasty in Vietnam, uniquely blends Chinese traditional capital systems with Western military architecture. Research reveals that Hue's layout, despite its adherence to Chinese models, incorporated a Vauban-style city wall—a rare fusion reflecting both cultural heritage and contemporary military needs. The study also highlights an unusual deviation where facilities for ancestor worship, deemed critical to the dynasty's legitimacy, were placed outside the imperial city. This arrangement underscores the Nguyen Dynasty's claim as successors to previous ruling dynasties. The analysis is based on a meticulous examination of historical records, offering insights into the strategic and symbolic dimensions of Hue's urban planning.
Soltaniyeh
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2016 —
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The Dome of Soltaniyeh, a surviving masterpiece from the Ilkhani era (13th–14th centuries), showcases unparalleled decorative techniques that reflect the cultural and artistic flourishing under Mongol rule in Iran. This study reveals how the integration of Iranian craftsmanship—including intricate plasterwork, tiling, lattice brickwork, Mogharnas, and Quranic inscriptions—elevated architectural aesthetics during a period marked by devastation and transition. The analytical approach examines these decorative elements, highlighting their historical significance as both artistic innovation and cultural preservation. The findings underscore the Dome's role in bridging Mongol military dominance with the revival of Islamic and Persian artistic traditions.
Jongmyo Shrine
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2016 —
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A groundbreaking analysis of ancient Korean architectural principles reveals that the spatial arrangement of Jongmyo Shrine, with its 'left ancestor right land' (Jwajowusa) and 'front shrine back residence' (Jeonmyohuchim), was not merely symbolic but functionally integral to ceremonial practices. The study challenges traditional interpretations by reinterpreting these layouts—specifically, the positioning of '社稷' (land and grain deities)—as auxiliary roles supporting rituals at the main shrine rather than standalone elements. By synthesizing classical texts like the Zhou Rituals and Han-era commentaries, researchers propose two plausible models for 'Jeonmyohuchim': one where both structures coexist within a single enclosed space, and another where they represent distinct domains—political-administrative (front) and residential (back). This work bridges historical records with architectural theory, offering new insights into the functional design of ancient Korean ceremonial sites.
Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks
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2016 —
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A comprehensive survey of Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve (NDBR) in Uttarakhand, India, reveals a rich herbal wealth with 55 species from 32 families, highlighting their significant roles as edibles, ethno-medicines, and ethno-veterinary resources. This study, conducted across eight villages, captures traditional knowledge primarily from elderly community members, emphasizing the need for urgent documentation to preserve this ethno-botanical data for future bio-prospection. The findings underscore the potential of NDBR's herbal diversity while stressing the importance of sustainable utilization and conservation efforts to safeguard this valuable resource.
Greater Blue Mountains Area
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2016 —
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Research in the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area, Australia, reveals a significant shift in keystone seed-dispersing ant genera for <em>Acacia terminalis</em> between low (200 m) and high elevations (700 m). At low elevations, ants of the genus <em>Rhytidoponera</em> dominate seed removal, while at higher elevations, <em>Aphaenogaster</em> takes over this role. This switch results in faster seed removal rates at lower elevations, though long-term dispersal rates remain consistent. Notably, vertebrates become significant seed dispersers or predators at high elevations when ants are excluded, altering dispersal and establishment patterns for the plant. These findings highlight how myrmecochorous systems adapt to elevation changes, mirroring global trends.
Yakushima
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2016 —
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A theoretical approach suggests that prioritizing the central zone of Yakushima Island for deer population management could effectively reduce sika deer numbers and protect threatened plant species, even without increased culling efforts. The study predicts that current management practices would only temporarily decrease deer populations before they rebound. By focusing on zones based on deer density and threatened plant occurrences, there's an 85% probability of achieving the 2022 population target, assuming no inter-zone dispersal. This strategy could help restore the island's biological balance without requiring a threefold increase in control efforts.
Pantanal Conservation Area
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2016 —
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A novel tracer-based simulation model reveals significant seasonal dynamics in surface-groundwater interactions within the Pantanal wetland, one of South America's least explored regions. The study quantifies water balance fluxes with a Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency of 0.61, highlighting how flooding regimes, connectivity, and site-specific characteristics like hydraulic conductivity influence these processes. Using a two-year dataset of water levels, stable isotopes, and chloride concentrations, the model demonstrates that evaporation from this vast floodplain may impact continental climate. This is the first field data-based study to quantify such fluxes in the Pantanal, offering critical insights for validating large-scale climate and land cover models, which currently underrepresent these interactions.
Paraty and Ilha Grande – Culture and Biodiversity
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2016 —
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Researchers have documented a unique subtidal vermetid reef formation dominated by Petaloconchus varians, extending over approximately 1,000 m² within the nuclear power plant discharge area of Ilha Grande Bay in Brazil. This monospecific reef, characterized by dense clusters resembling 'microatolls,' represents an unprecedented finding on the Brazilian coast, thriving under extreme conditions including high temperatures (>36°C), chlorine inputs, and strong waterflow currents (30 cm/s). The study describes the formation, density, and range extension of these reefs, highlighting their adaptation to anthropogenic stressors in a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The findings challenge assumptions about vermetid reef resilience and distribution, offering insights into the ecological impacts of nuclear discharge areas.
Tassili n'Ajjer
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2016 —
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Between 1986 and 1990, the global establishment of protected areas saw a decline from 6,174 to 4,412 sites, with Germany leading in their creation (846 sites). While the total area remained stable, the diversity of national categories increased by 278. Notably, this period included the designation of significant sites such as La Amistad National Park (Costa Rica), Mantadia National Park (Madagascar), and Tassili n'Ajjer National Park (Algeria)—all now UNESCO World Heritage Sites—highlighting its importance in conservation history. The study, analyzing IUCN categories, reveals that 47.5% of newly established areas fell under Category IV (Protected Landscapes), with most being small (<100 ha). Hungary contributed 37 sites, including the Gödöllői Dombság Landscape Protection Area.
Durham Castle and Cathedral
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2016 —
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Thomas Rud's brief tenure as librarian at Durham Cathedral (1717–25) demonstrated exceptional administrative efficiency and cataloging expertise, particularly in organizing the cathedral’s manuscript collection. This period marked a significant phase of renewal for cathedral libraries post-1660, with Durham standing out for its systematic approach to library management. Rud's work highlighted the importance of meticulous cataloging during this era of rebuilding and reorganization, setting a benchmark for librarianship in early 18th-century ecclesiastical institutions.
Wet Tropics of Queensland
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2016 —
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A critical examination of transactions involving Aboriginal artefacts from the North Queensland Wet Tropics reveals complex relationships between objects, people, and place. The study underscores the importance of understanding exchange dynamics and concepts of ownership in the creation and collection of these artefacts, providing insight into their cultural significance and historical context. By analyzing these interactions, researchers highlight the need for a nuanced approach to interpreting Aboriginal material culture within UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Wet Tropics.
City of Quito
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2016 —
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A study on the acceptability of Adaptive Augmented Reality (A2R) applications, conducted at Quito's historic center, reveals that perceived adaptability, ease of use, usefulness, and enjoyment are critical factors in user acceptance. Unlike prior research focusing solely on AR or recommendation systems, this study uniquely examines A2R—a hybrid mobile technology guiding users to remarkable places based on their preferences. Using an adapted Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), the researchers analyzed correlations among these variables through an experiment involving young adults aged 18–25. The findings underscore the importance of adaptability and user-centered design in shaping positive attitudes toward A2R, offering insights for future heritage tourism applications.
Durham Castle and Cathedral
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2016 —
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Durham Castle and Cathedral reveals sophisticated financial management practices within the Durham Cathedral Priory from 1083 to 1539. The study demonstrates that the priory employed advanced accounting methods, including detailed record-keeping and systematic control mechanisms, to manage its extensive resources and operations as one of Europe's largest ecclesiastical corporations. These practices ensured fiscal transparency and efficiency, even during periods of significant economic and political change. The research draws on surviving financial documents, providing a rare glimpse into the administrative sophistication of medieval institutions.
St Kilda
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2016 —
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Research on the St. Kilda Soay sheep population reveals that accounting for female space sharing has minimal impact on heritability estimates, contrary to previous suggestions of significant bias. The study analyzed five traits—birthweight, birth date, lamb August weight, and female post-mortem jaw and metacarpal length—and found that while spatial factors explained up to 18% of trait variance, heritability estimates decreased by only up to 7%. This challenges the assumption that philopatry (relatives clustering in space) inevitably leads to substantial bias. The findings suggest that modeling shared space may not always be necessary but encourage its consideration when relatives share space to better understand potential biases.
Stonehenge, Avebury and Associated Sites
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2016 —
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Research on the West Kennet Long Barrow, part of the Avebury complex in Wiltshire, reveals that its two pairs of transepted chambers resonate at frequencies forming a 'perfect fourth' ratio (4:3), mirroring their 4:3 plan proportions. This acoustic phenomenon, also observed in other Cotswold-Severn tombs, suggests deliberate design for musical or ritual purposes. Additionally, the central passage's low-frequency resonance may have had psychological effects, potentially used in Neolithic rituals. The study builds on a 2011 preliminary investigation, using acoustical analysis to explore these properties.
Vineyard Landscape of Piedmont: Langhe-Roero and Monferrato
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2016 —
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Flavescence dorée (FD) poses a significant threat to wine production in the UNESCO-listed vineyard landscapes of Piedmont, Italy. Research reveals that the efficiency with which the vector insect <em>Scaphoideus titanus</em> acquires FD phytoplasma varies markedly depending on grapevine variety and phytoplasma load, rather than simply FDP levels alone. While varieties like Arneis support lower phytoplasma multiplication, they remain highly susceptible to vector acquisition, suggesting disease spread is more closely tied to vector behavior than plant infection severity. The study employed laboratory-reared <em>S. titanus</em> nymphs caged on infected plants to quantify acquisition efficiency across six local cultivars, demonstrating a complex interplay between grapevine variety and phytoplasma dynamics that could inform FD management strategies in vulnerable wine regions.
Archaeological Site of Olympia
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2016 —
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A study of active faults in Greece reveals that the northern Lapithas fault, near the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Olympia, could generate earthquakes with magnitudes up to 6.9 if both its onshore and offshore segments rupture simultaneously. The southern Lapithas fault is estimated to have a maximum potential magnitude of 5.8. Historical records suggest that damage at Ancient Olympia in AD 522 or AD 551 was not caused by earthquakes, contrary to previous reports. Additionally, the Lastros-Sfaka Graben in eastern Crete shows evidence of seismic activity with a recurrence interval of approximately 499 ± 100 years for magnitude 6.42 earthquakes. The study used fault mapping, t-LiDAR, GPR, and palaeoseismological techniques to determine fault lengths, slip rates, and earthquake potential.
Tomioka Silk Mill and Related Sites
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Regional community development efforts for tourism, particularly those centered on the Tomioka Silk Mill before its UNESCO World Heritage Site designation, involved significant collaboration among multiple organizations. Text mining of local newspaper articles revealed that activities by groups like the Tomioka Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Tomioka Community Development Promotion Council were characterized by coordination and cooperation. These findings were validated through interviews with key stakeholders, highlighting the importance of multi-organizational efforts in preparing for and responding to heritage recognition.
Sites of Japan’s Meiji Industrial Revolution: Iron and Steel, Shipbuilding and Coal Mining
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Industrial heritage in Kitakyushu, Japan, particularly at the Yawata Imperial Works—now a UNESCO World Heritage Site—has been successfully repurposed to balance preservation and public engagement. The study highlights how historic machinery, once at risk of neglect, is now leveraged for educational exhibits in areas like Mojiko Retro while also being integrated into industrial tourism tours that showcase operational equipment. This dual approach has not only safeguarded these sites but also fostered broader appreciation for Japan's Meiji Industrial Revolution, demonstrating a model for sustainable heritage utilization.
Erbil Citadel
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2016 —
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A collaborative project between Sapienza University of Rome and Kurdish institutions successfully strengthened local capacities in managing and enhancing cultural heritage, particularly focusing on the Erbil Citadel. Led by Carlo G. Cereti from 2012 to 2014, this initiative, funded by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, aimed to address a key request for capacity building from Kurdish authorities. Through partnerships with the High Commission for Erbil Citadel Revitalization (HCECR), the General Directorate of Antiquities of the Kurdish Regional Government (KRG), and regional museums, the project integrated expertise in archaeology, conservation, and museum management. This effort not only supported the preservation of significant heritage sites like the Erbil Citadel but also fostered institutional development in Iraqi Kurdistan, setting a model for sustainable cultural heritage protection.
Ancient Maya City and Protected Tropical Forests of Calakmul, Campeche
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2016 —
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A comprehensive update of the avifauna inventory for Calakmul Biosphere Reserve, Mexico's largest protected tropical forest, reveals 403 bird species—the highest count recorded—challenging prior estimates by up to 19%. The study, combining published records, gray literature, and databases, provides detailed insights into species abundance, seasonality, endemism, conservation status, and vulnerability. This expanded inventory underscores the reserve's critical role in avian biodiversity conservation, offering essential data for resource management and ecosystem preservation strategies.
Arab-Norman Palermo and the Cathedral Churches of Cefalú and Monreale
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2016 —
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A detailed analysis of the Genesis mosaics depicting Adam and Eve at their labors, created around 1180 in the Cathedral of Monreale, Sicily, reveals a rich tapestry of symbolic iconography and artistic mastery. The mosaics, part of an extensive series covering approximately 7600 m² of the cathedral's interior, use over 2200 kg of pure gold and are among the most magnificent Byzantine mosaics globally. The scene illustrates God's punishment and subsequent redemption of Adam and Eve, incorporating local references such as Mount Etna and endemic thyroid disease, which serve as visual aids to enhance the moral narrative for the congregation. The composition suggests a single directing artist with predominantly Greek iconography, likely executed by skilled craftsmen from Constantinople. This work not only showcases the artistic prowess and cultural significance of Norman Sicily under King William II but also provides insights into the evolving relationship between man and work, reflecting on facets of workplace health and contemporary issues.
Tiwanaku: Spiritual and Political Centre of the Tiwanaku Culture
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2016 —
WHED51FCE5225
Humans have demonstrated an exceptional ability to adapt to population growth through cultural evolution, challenging traditional Malthusian views that suggest population is limited by environmental and technological constraints. Instead, this study aligns with the Boserupian perspective, which posits that population growth drives social, economic, and technological advancements. By applying evolutionary theory—where culture replaces genes as the primary driver of change—the research argues that humans have successfully accommodated increasing populations through rapid cultural adaptation. This hypothesis is supported by four case studies: the transition to farming at Göbekli Tepe, the agricultural systems of Tiwanaku in South America, the population crisis in Iceland, and the 'collapse' of Rapa Nui (Easter Island). The findings suggest a possible shift from Malthusian to Boserupian dynamics in human history.
Melaka and George Town, Historic Cities of the Straits of Malacca
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2016 —
WHE5517E4EC39
Research on adaptive re-use principles in historic hotel buildings within Melaka and George Town, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, reveals moderate conservation levels in these structures. The study identified 35 hotels employing adaptive re-use strategies but found that current practices may not fully adhere to international conservation guidelines. Through case studies of four heritage hotels, the research highlights the need for stricter controls to preserve the integrity of these buildings while optimizing their functional use. Recommendations are proposed to enhance future adaptive re-use projects in alignment with conservation principles.
