World Heritage Research: Browse Publications: Page 456

Towards World Heritage

Birthplace of Jesus: Church of the Nativity and the Pilgrimage Route, Bethlehem — 2016 — WHEDCF4D722F5

This edited volume examines the evolution of heritage preservation practices through diverse case studies, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It reveals how cultural and political dynamics have shaped preservation efforts, from early initiatives like those at Niagara Falls and St. Sophia to more recent challenges such as conflict and neglect at the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem. The book explores legal frameworks, community engagement, and transatlantic influences on historic preservation, offering a nuanced understanding of how heritage is both conserved and contested across different contexts.

Traces of Insect Activity at Cooper's D Fossil Site (Cradle of Humankind, South Africa)

Fossil Hominid Sites of South Africa — 2016 — WHEA3DEB7C29D

Research at Cooper's D Fossil Site, part of South Africa's Cradle of Humankind, reveals the first comprehensive evidence of insect trace fossils on bone within a Cenozoic African context. The study identified 53 bone specimens exhibiting distinct traces, including frass and coprolites, as well as nine unique morphological traces. Notably, two new ichnotaxa were described: Munitusichnus pascens, characterized by circular boreholes with crescent-shaped excavations, and Cubiculum cooperi, represented by ellipsoid surface borings (pupation chambers). These findings suggest multiple insect agents acted at different stages of bone taphonomy—whether sub-aerially exposed, during deposition, or post-burial. The discovery underscores the significance of insect activity in shaping fossil assemblages and provides critical insights into paleoecological processes.

Tracing the locality of prisoners and workers at the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang: First Emperor of China (259-210 BC)

Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor — 2016 — WHEE3B28DB511

Isotopic analysis reveals that prisoners forced to construct the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang (259–210 BC) likely originated from southern China, possibly the ancient Chu state. Unlike local workers at Liyi—whose diet was dominated by millet and domestic animals—the Shanren prisoners exhibited a mixed C3/C4 dietary signature, suggesting reduced millet consumption and reliance on wild game, consistent with regional patterns in southern China. This finding aligns with historical accounts and prior genetic evidence, indicating the mausoleum's workforce comprised individuals from diverse origins, including southern Chinese groups.

Tracking ink composition on Herculaneum papyrus scrolls: quantification and speciation of lead by X-ray based techniques and Monte Carlo simulations

Archaeological Areas of Pompei, Herculaneum and Torre Annunziata — 2016 — WHE785D76C311

Researchers have uncovered that lead, present in the ink of Herculaneum papyrus scrolls, enhances the readability of text by increasing the X-ray fluorescence signal. This discovery, made using advanced X-ray phase-contrast tomography and multi-scale X-ray fluorescence micro-imaging, sheds light on the composition of ancient writing materials. The study employed Monte Carlo simulations and X-ray absorption microspectroscopy to quantify and speciate lead within the scrolls, aiming to determine its origin and validate hypotheses about its state in the ink. This non-invasive approach avoids the need for unrolling the delicate scrolls, preserving their integrity while revealing hidden texts from the pyroclastic events of Vesuvius in 79 AD.

Transcriptome‐based phylogeny of endemic Lake Baikal amphipod species flock: fast speciation accompanied by frequent episodes of positive selection

Lake Baikal — 2016 — WHE07A3E3415F

Researchers have uncovered evidence of rapid speciation and frequent positive selection in Lake Baikal's endemic amphipod species flock, suggesting adaptive radiation driven by directional selection. Analyzing partial transcriptomes from 64 amphipod species, the study confirmed two independent invasions into the lake and identified parallel evolution of morphological traits like body armor and reduced appendages. Positive selection was more prevalent during the early phase of the second invasion, particularly in genes related to mitochondrial membrane proteins involved in electron transfer and ATP synthesis, hinting at adaptations to planktonic lifestyles and extreme environmental conditions such as low temperatures and high hydrostatic pressures. Other genes under positive selection included Ca-binding muscle-related proteins, potentially adapting to Baikal's calcium-deficient waters.

Transformation of place identity; a case of heritage and conflict in Iraq

Erbil Citadel — 2016 — WHE13DBDE827D

Post-war urban transformation in Erbil, Iraq, significantly impacts place identity, highlighting the need for resilient urban development approaches. The study, focusing on Erbil's historic core and contemporary urban areas, reveals that intensive reconstruction efforts, driven by political stability post-2003 invasion, have negatively influenced the city's identity rooted in its ancient citadel—a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to 5000 B.C. Key informant interviews with local residents, policymakers, and stakeholders were used alongside morphological analysis to explore these changes. The research underscores the importance of balancing historical preservation with modernization to ensure place identity evolves while remaining resilient to future conflicts.

Translocation and hand‐rearing result in short‐tailed albatrosses returning to breed in the Ogasawara Islands 80 years after extirpation

Ogasawara Islands — 2016 — WHEE9D5FE9E81

A groundbreaking conservation effort has successfully re-established breeding of the short-tailed albatross (STAL) in the Ogasawara Islands, 80 years after their local extinction. Researchers translocated and hand-reared 69 chicks from a source colony to a historic breeding island. Over eight years, 27 birds returned annually, with three pairs establishing breeding at the translocation site or neighboring islands, producing 12 chicks. All successful breeders paired with naturally reared albatrosses, highlighting the importance of social attractants and philopatry in colony formation. While more birds returned to their natal island, the study underscores that translocation and hand-rearing were critical for this reintroduction success.

Treatment Failure after Multiple Courses of Triclabendazole among Patients with Fascioliasis in Cusco, Peru: A Case Series

City of Cuzco — 2016 — WHE103687561F

A concerning trend of triclabendazole treatment failure emerges in the Andes, as documented by seven cases of human fascioliasis in Cusco, Peru. Despite multiple doses (10 mg/kg per dose), patients continued to excrete Fasciola eggs, suggesting potential resistance development. The study employed rapid sedimentation and Kato Katz tests post-treatment to confirm egg persistence. These findings challenge the long-standing efficacy of triclabendazole, a cornerstone in fascioliasis management, and raise alarms for public health interventions in endemic regions like Cusco.

Tree Ring—Dated Glacial History for the First Millennium c.e., Casement Glacier and Adams Inlet, Glacier Bay, Alaska, U.S.A.

Kluane / Wrangell-St. Elias / Glacier Bay / Tatshenshini-Alsek — 2016 — WHE9C0B1CEEC1

A study of tree-ring data from Glacier Bay, Alaska, reveals significant glacial advances and lake formations between the mid-sixth and mid-seventh centuries c.e. The research, combining calendar-dated tree-ring series from 16 logs near Casement Glacier with dates from 36 detrital logs in Adams Inlet, shows that ice advance occurred within a few kilometers of the glacier's 2011 margin, blocking off Adams Inlet and forming Lake Adams. This glacial history aligns with broader cooling trends across the Gulf of Alaska during this period, possibly linked to volcanic eruptions. The lake persisted until around 880 c.e., draining by 1170 c.e., coinciding with Medieval warming. Subsequent Little Ice Age readvance filled Glacier Bay to its Holocene maximum by 1750 c.e.

Turismo y patrimonio: un plan integral para La Antigua Guatemala

Antigua Guatemala — 2016 — WHE86908035F7

La Antigua Guatemala faces significant challenges due to population growth, increased tourism, traffic congestion, inadequate monument protection, and environmental pollution. A Master Plan, financed by the Government of Canary Islands (Spain), was developed to address these issues. The study proposes La Antigua as a 'creative city,' aiming to diversify economic activities beyond tourism while mitigating urban speculation on agricultural land. The research reflects on methodological approaches, noting the lack of reliable urban planning information and cartography. It updates previous analyses on La Antigua's role as a tourist destination, highlighting its challenges, opportunities, and risks.

Twenty years of diplomatic relations between Vatican City state and Israel

Vatican City — 2016 — WHE1058B7C16D

A significant milestone in diplomatic relations, the Basic Agreement between Vatican City State and Israel, signed in 1993, marked a pivotal moment for both nations. This study evaluates the impact of the agreement over two decades, highlighting its role in normalizing political ties while also identifying persistent challenges. The analysis reveals that while the agreement facilitated diplomatic progress, it was not solely driven by interreligious or diplomatic considerations but also reflected broader Vatican efforts to establish political relations with various countries. A key challenge for future relations emerged in 2015 with the Vatican's recognition of Palestine's independence, which complicates the bilateral dynamic.

Two new Bent-toed Geckos of the Cyrtodactylus pulchellus complex from Peninsular Malaysia and multiple instances of convergent adaptation to limestone forest ecosystems

Archaeological Heritage of the Lenggong Valley — 2016 — WHE16999A8079

Researchers have identified two new species of bent-toed geckos, Cyrtodactylus hidupselamanya and C. lenggongensis, within the C. pulchellus complex from Peninsular Malaysia. Both species exhibit unique adaptations to limestone ecosystems, with C. hidupselamanya facing imminent extinction due to habitat destruction from quarrying, while C. lenggongensis is protected under UNESCO’s Archaeological Heritage of the Lenggong Valley. The study used molecular evidence (mitochondrial gene ND2) and morphological traits to distinguish these species, revealing at least four independent instances of convergent adaptation to limestone habitats over 26.1–0.78 million years. This discovery underscores the evolutionary significance of limestone forests in driving speciation and highlights critical conservation concerns for C. hidupselamanya.

Two new Ediacaran small fronds from Mistaken Point, Newfoundland

Mistaken Point — 2016 — WHEF9C78F7940

Research at Mistaken Point, Newfoundland, has uncovered two new Ediacaran small fronds, Plumeropriscum hofmanni and Broccoliforma alta, revealing greater diversity in the low epibenthic tier than previously recognized. These taxa, characterized by unique morphologies—one mop-like with a three-dimensional petalodium structure and the other flabellate with lobate features—challenge earlier assumptions about the simplicity of small-frond body plans during this period. The study taxonomically describes these fossils, which were informally referred to as 'dusters,' highlighting convergent evolution in stemmed fronds. This finding expands our understanding of Ediacaran biodiversity and ecological complexity.

Two new species of Erythromelana Townsend, 1919 (Diptera: Tachinidae) from Area de Conservación Guanacaste in northwestern Costa Rica

Area de Conservación Guanacaste — 2016 — WHE1FE4472E3A

Scientists have identified two new species of the fly genus Erythromelana within the Area de Conservación Guanacaste (ACG) in northwestern Costa Rica. These discoveries, Erythromelana jimmychevezi and Erythromelana glenriverai, were made by rearing flies from wild-caught caterpillars of the moth family Geometridae. The research integrates morphological descriptions, life history observations, molecular data, and photographic documentation to characterize these species. This study highlights the biodiversity of ACG and contributes new insights into the taxonomy of Tachinidae flies, which are important predators in ecosystems.

Tylecodon florentii, a new cliff dwelling species from the Kookrivier cliffs, Richtersveld (Northern Cape Province), South Africa

Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical Landscape — 2016 — WHE8A7C68C403

A new species of Tylecodon, Tylecodon florentii, has been identified as an obligate cliff-dwelling plant endemic to the upper south-facing reddish sandstone cliffs of Kookrivier in South Africa's Richtersveld. This discovery highlights the unique biodiversity of the region, particularly within the northern Namaqualand area known for its winter rainfall and tuberous-rooted Tylecodon species with extended phyllopodia. The study contributes to the understanding of specialized plant adaptations in extreme environments, emphasizing the importance of preserving such distinct ecosystems within UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical Landscape.

U–Pb zircon age constraints for the Ordovician Fishguard Volcanic Group and further evidence for the provenance of the Stonehenge bluestones

Stonehenge, Avebury and Associated Sites — 2016 — WHE8AF24A91CC

New U–Pb zircon dating confirms that the Fishguard Volcanic Group in SW Wales, formed during the Middle Ordovician period (Darriwilian), is the likely source of some Stonehenge bluestones. Analysis of rhyolite samples from Craig Rhos-y-felin, a site previously identified as a potential source based on petrological and geochemical evidence, matches the age of a Stonehenge fragment, strengthening the link between the two. Additionally, another Stonehenge rhyolite fragment, associated with orthostat 48, also aligns with the Fishguard Volcanic Group's age, further supporting its provenance as the origin for these stones. This study provides robust geological evidence to trace the origins of Stonehenge's bluestones, contributing to our understanding of their transportation and use in prehistoric construction.

UAV Monitoring for Enviromental Management in Galapagos Islands

Galápagos Islands — 2016 — WHE2884AE3582

UAV technology proves highly effective for monitoring littoral vegetation degradation in the Galápagos Islands, offering timely and accurate data crucial for environmental management. The study demonstrates that UAV-captured RGB and NIR images can systematically identify vegetation presence through NDVI and characterize plant vigor via object-based classification. This approach provides a robust tool for baseline studies and ongoing monitoring, addressing critical gaps in the region's ability to respond to threats like invasive species spread and habitat degradation. By enabling rapid data collection and thematic information production, UAVs enhance decision-making for protected areas where ecosystem dynamics are particularly vulnerable.

ULICA 29: Międzynarodowy Festiwal Teatrów Ulicznych [Street 29: International Festival of Street Theatres] by Teatr KTO

Historic Centre of Kraków — 2016 — WHEFC3F8556C3

ULICA 29, the 29th annual international street theatre festival in Kraków, Poland, highlighted increasing nationalism and political tensions in Europe despite its theme of carnival. The festival, organized by Teatr KTO, featured a reduced international participation compared to previous years, notably lacking representation from Russia, Belarus, Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia, which underscored the broader geopolitical climate. While the number of participating theatres increased to 44, with over 200 performers and an estimated 100,000 viewers, the event's focus on Polish theatre reflected growing nationalist sentiments across Europe. Performances, such as Teatr KTO's 'Peregrinus,' challenged spectators' space and explored themes of displacement and managed labor, resonating with Poland's and Central/Eastern Europe's socio-political context.

Ultraviolet radiation at Isla del Coco (Cocos Island) National Park, Costa Rica.

Cocos Island National Park — 2016 — WHE347B01EAFA

Research at Cocos Island National Park, Costa Rica, reveals significant variations in ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure, critical for understanding ecosystem dynamics and protecting coral reefs. The study found that UV index (UVI) averages ranged from 14 to 3 on sunny versus cloudy days in Chatham Bay, and 12 to 4 in Wafer Bay, with the sunniest conditions peaking at UVI 16. High UV exposure occurred between 9:00–15:00 in Chatham and 9:00–14:30 in Wafer during sunny periods. The study used automatic Davis weather stations to measure UV radiation over multiple expeditions (2008–2012), providing valuable data for modeling ecosystem impacts, ranger operations, and tourism planning.

Um Modelo de Capacitação Rumo à Sustentabilidade: Os guias de Alto Paraíso de Goiás - Chapada dos Veadeiros (GO)

Cerrado Protected Areas: Chapada dos Veadeiros and Emas National Parks — 2016 — WHE769F67AF09

A sustainable training model for guides and tourism professionals in Alto Paraíso de Goiás, Brazil, has demonstrated significant economic, environmental, and social benefits. Since the 1990s, courses tailored to the region's naturalistic vocation have equipped local communities with cultural and technical tools to valorize resources sustainably. This initiative serves as a successful example of sustainable development, aligning tourism growth with conservation efforts in the UNESCO-listed Cerrado Protected Areas, including Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park.

Uma incompleta e vaga lembrança: a reconstrução "evocativa" das Residências dos mestres da Bauhaus em Dessau

Bauhaus and its Sites in Weimar, Dessau and Bernau — 2016 — WHE997302273D

This study introduces the concept of 'unscharfe Erinnerung' (blurred remembrance) as a novel approach to reconstructing lost architectural landmarks, specifically the Bauhaus Master's Houses in Dessau. The research presents an alternative to both integral reconstruction and preservation of the status quo, offering instead an evocative reinterpretation that preserves historical integrity while providing a contemporary interpretation. Inspired by philosophical works from Borges and Sugimoto, the design by BFM Architekten Berlin uses volumetries and scales to recover the potential unity of the artwork without falsifying historical evidence. This method was applied in the 2014 reconstruction project, demonstrating its feasibility as a third pathway for heritage conservation.

Un progetto di ricerca tra topografia antica e archeologia dei paesaggi: l’Appia antica nel territorio di Beneventum

Via Appia. Regina Viarum — 2016 — WHE5E318DBAC7

A collaborative research project, involving the Soprintendenza Archeologica and the University of Salerno, has made significant strides in reconstructing the ancient Appian Way's route east of Benevento. The study, which integrates topographic reconstruction with landscape archaeology, challenges previous hypotheses about the road's path, particularly from Benevento to Ponte Rotto on the Calore River. By employing a multidisciplinary approach—including archival studies, historical maps, paleobotanical analysis, surface surveys, aerial photography, and geomorphological surveys—the project aims to validate ground signs and archaeological traces left by ancient settlement dynamics. Since 2010, fieldwork has involved systematic and thematic surveys, revealing accurate data that supports a topographical reconstruction of the Consular way within a broader settlement system. The research proposes a more comprehensive understanding of the Appian Way's role in ancient landscape organization.

Una lettura delle Lettere storiche di Alvise Da Porto

City of Vicenza and the Palladian Villas of the Veneto — 2016 — WHE740912F949

Alvise da Porto emerges as a complex figure in the 'Lettere storiche,' revealing a paradoxical stance on warfare. While he condemns military interventions and their destructive impact on cities, art, and farmland, he also admires swordsmanship and knightly honor, contrasting his pacifist leanings with an appreciation for martial prowess. His precise descriptions of sieges, particularly those targeting Vicenza during the League of Cambrai's campaigns, highlight his keen political and military acumen. This analysis relies solely on his historical letters, offering a nuanced portrayal of da Porto's intellectual and moral character.

Una Visión Práctica de los Regadíos en la Península Ibérica: El Palmeral de Elche y el Tribunal de las Aguas de la Vega de Valencia

Palmeral of Elche — 2016 — WHE436B2174DD

A comprehensive analysis of water management systems in the Iberian Peninsula reveals the enduring significance of legal frameworks in sustaining agricultural practices, with a focus on the Palmeral of Elche and the Tribunal of the Waters of Valencia. This study highlights how historical civilizations—Roman, Visigothic, and Islamic—established robust regulations for water distribution and protection, ensuring its equitable use as a vital resource. By examining these systems through a practical lens, the research underscores their adaptability and long-term impact on agricultural landscapes, offering insights into sustainable water governance models.

Uncovering the hidden signature of a magmatic recharge at Piton de la Fournaise volcano using small earthquakes

Pitons, cirques and remparts of Reunion Island — 2016 — WHE654D46C40A

A ring-shaped zone of weakness beneath Piton de la Fournaise volcano, revealed through advanced seismic analysis, suggests preexisting structural vulnerabilities that influence eruptive behavior. Using a template matching method, researchers detected thousands of small earthquakes in 2014 and 2015, uncovering persistent seismicity patterns linked to magma recharge. Notably, deep earthquake migration in 2015 preceded a shallow seismic swarm, indicating the formation of a hydraulic connection between deep magma sources and a near-sea-level reservoir—likely missed in past observations due to detection limitations. This study highlights how subtle seismic signals can decode volcanic processes, offering insights into the hidden dynamics shaping eruptions at UNESCO-listed Réunion Island's volcanic landscapes.

Understanding geohazards in the UNESCO WHL site of the Derwent Valley Mills (UK) using geological and remote sensing data

Derwent Valley Mills — 2016 — WHE50459B9C81

A comprehensive analysis of geohazards in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Derwent Valley Mills (UK) reveals that flooding, both from fluvial water flow and groundwater emergence, poses significant risks across over 50% and 40% of the Core Area, respectively. Slope instability along the steep sides of the Derwent river valley, notably a 1.4 km² landslide deposit in Cromford within the Buffer Zone, further exacerbates these challenges. The study utilized key hazard datasets from the British Geological Survey, including GeoSure, DiGMapGB, and the National Landslide Database, to provide baseline geohazard characterization. Projections under a medium greenhouse gas emission scenario suggest drier summers, wetter winters, and increased annual temperatures, which could intensify these hazards. This research contributes to the PROTHEGO project, aimed at mapping geohazards across 400+ European UNESCO sites using satellite radar interferometry and geological data.

Understanding Orographic Effects on Surface Observations at Macquarie Island

Macquarie Island — 2016 — WHEDE5D523BEE

Research on Macquarie Island reveals that the island's modest elevation (410 m) has limited orographic effects on precipitation, except for enhancing drizzle during southwesterly winds. Using high-resolution numerical simulations with and without terrain, the study analyzed four common synoptic patterns: cold fronts, warm fronts, postfrontal drizzle, and midlatitude cyclones. The findings indicate that while the island can perturb clouds and precipitation, its shallow height (nondimensional mountain height < 1 in 93.5% of cases) often allows boundary layer flow to pass over it, with greater impact observed in the lee. The weather station's location on the island's north end further limits significant orographic effects, except during specific wind conditions.

Understanding the dynamic of a tropical forest located in Southern Mexico using remotely sensed data

Ancient Maya City and Protected Tropical Forests of Calakmul, Campeche — 2016 — WHE9CF0BAD632

Significant seasonal variations in soil and vegetation water content were identified in the tropical forests of Calakmul, Mexico, using a combination of field campaigns and Radarsat-2 satellite imagery. The study revealed pronounced differences between rainy and dry seasons, primarily due to water loss in both soil and vegetation during the latter. This research highlights the dynamic nature of this critical ecosystem, contributing to a better understanding of tropical forest behavior in Southern Mexico—a region hosting one of the world's largest tropical forest areas after the Amazon. The approach integrated ground-based measurements with remote sensing data, offering valuable insights for conservation efforts.

UNESCO World Heritage „Prehistoric pile-dwellings around the Alps“: Chances and Challenges for Management and Research of Cultural Heritage Under Water

Prehistoric Pile Dwellings around the Alps — 2016 — WHE9C0EC2981A

The UNESCO World Heritage Site 'Prehistoric pile-dwellings around the Alps' presents a unique opportunity for long-term cultural heritage preservation, particularly for organic materials like wood and plant fibers that survive exceptionally well in waterlogged environments. These sites offer high scientific potential due to their precise dating capabilities through dendrochronology, enabling researchers to study artifacts spanning hundreds or thousands of years. However, managing public access and maintaining public interest pose significant challenges. The site, recognized in 2011 after an initiative by Switzerland, involves six Alpine countries collaborating to protect this 'invisible' yet invaluable heritage.

UNESCO World Heritage and Kosovo Towards a Tentative List for Kosovo

Medieval Monuments in Kosovo — 2016 — WHE332BD7206F

Kosovo's bid for UNESCO World Heritage recognition faces significant challenges, primarily due to its lack of systematic inventory and management structures for medieval monuments. Despite having a rich architectural heritage, Kosovo has not yet established the necessary frameworks to compile a tentative list for UNESCO consideration. This study highlights the urgent need for Kosovo to develop national expertise, engage international stakeholders like ICOMOS, and create a comprehensive inventory of its historical sites. The proposed preliminary tentative list serves as a starting point for discussion, balancing potential candidates against practical and cultural criteria.

Unexpectedly High Levels of Cryptic Diversity Uncovered by a Complete DNA Barcoding of Reptiles of the Socotra Archipelago

Socotra Archipelago — 2016 — WHEFA0511E6F9

A comprehensive DNA barcoding study of Socotra Archipelago's reptiles reveals unexpectedly high levels of cryptic diversity, suggesting species richness may be underestimated by up to 54.4%. The research, the most extensive of its kind on an island group, successfully barcoded all 31 recognized reptile species (94% endemics) and found moderate to high specimen identification success rates with clear local barcoding gaps. The study highlights the utility of the cytochrome c oxidase 1 (COI) gene in detecting intra-specific diversity and supports conservation planning by indicating potential misclassifications in species ranges and statuses. These findings align with other phylogenetic studies using mitochondrial and nuclear markers, reinforcing the need for integrative taxonomic approaches to flag species discovery efficiently.

Unique Microbial Phylotypes in Namib Desert Dune and Gravel Plain Fairy Circle Soils

Namib Sand Sea — 2016 — WHEA700001AE6

Fairy circles (FCs) in the Namib Desert, mysterious barren patches surrounded by grass, may be linked to microbial phytopathogenesis. A study analyzing soil samples from dune and gravel plain FCs using high-throughput sequencing revealed 67 unique microbial phylotypes—9 bacterial, 1 archaeal, and 57 fungal—that were exclusive to FC soils. These included taxa related to known phytopathogens, suggesting a potential role in FC formation or maintenance. While soil physicochemical properties influenced microbial community composition, none distinctly segregated FC from vegetated soils. This research provides novel evidence that microorganisms may drive the FC phenomenon, particularly in gravel plains, which had been understudied.

Unveiling the Hidden Bat Diversity of a Neotropical Montane Forest

Talamanca Range-La Amistad Reserves / La Amistad National Park — 2016 — WHE31B2031B4F

Research in the Talamanca Range-La Amistad Reserves reveals significant hidden bat diversity, with mitochondrial DNA analysis uncovering highly divergent lineages (> 9% COI dissimilarity) in species like Myotis oxyotus and Hylonycteris underwoodi, suggesting high endemism. The study, conducted through a 15-night sampling campaign capturing 90 bats across 8 species, used phylogenetic methods to compare populations with those from other regions. Findings indicate that montane ecosystems in Central America may harbor previously unrecognized bat diversity but face severe extinction risks due to climate change, particularly in isolated systems like the Talamanca Range.

Updated Atapuerca biostratigraphy: Small-mammal distribution and its implications for the biochronology of the Quaternary in Spain

Archaeological Site of Atapuerca — 2016 — WHEFC526AD465

A refined biochronological framework for the Quaternary period in Spain emerges from an updated analysis of small-mammal distributions at Atapuerca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its rich archaeological and paleontological records. Researchers applied a novel 'unitary association' method to five key stratigraphic sequences, identifying five new faunal units that sharpen existing biozones. This approach not only enhances the temporal resolution of Atapuerca's sedimentary fill but also strengthens correlations with other Pleistocene sites across Europe, providing critical insights into the region's evolutionary history.

Urban Autonomy in Medieval Islam

Ancient City of Damascus — 2016 — WHE6384DE7E7E

Medieval Islamic cities, including Damascus, exhibited significant autonomy from the late 10th to early 12th centuries, marking a pivotal shift in urban governance and economic development. This study reveals that these cities—spanning regions like Aleppo, Cordoba, and Tunis—operated independently for extended periods, transforming from ancient political or agricultural centers into dynamic hubs of commerce and industry. Unlike earlier civilizations, the Islamic world pioneered this transition, later influencing China and parts of Western Europe. The research employs a comparative approach, analyzing each city separately to establish its autonomy through factual evidence.

Urban Challenges in Spain and Portugal

Historic Centre of Oporto, Luiz I Bridge and Monastery of Serra do Pilar — 2016 — WHEB7045212F9

Urban Challenges in Spain and Portugal explores the complex dynamics of urban development, governance, and regeneration in two distinct yet interconnected regions. The study reveals that while residential sprawl may not always be detrimental, it often exacerbates inefficiencies and challenges in urban planning, as seen in Spain. Conversely, area-based initiatives in Porto's historic city center demonstrate how targeted interventions can revitalize heritage sites while addressing governance paradoxes, particularly in politically uncertain environments like Lisbon. The research employs a comparative approach, analyzing case studies from Madrid, Barcelona, and Catalonia to highlight the five key challenges of urban rehabilitation—balancing preservation with modernization, ensuring equitable development, and navigating political empowerment. This work underscores the need for adaptive governance strategies that reconcile heritage conservation with contemporary urban demands.

Urban development and visual culture: Commodifying the gaze in the regeneration of Tigné Point, Malta

City of Valletta — 2016 — WHE6A08279831

Panoramic views, when commodified within neoliberal capitalism, serve as powerful tools for urban regeneration and elite spatial differentiation. This study reveals how architects and developers appropriate, reimagine, and rescript panoramas to create high-status residential and commercial spaces in Tigné Point, Malta—the largest recent regeneration project on the island. The research demonstrates that such commodification accelerates capital accumulation while reinforcing spatial inequalities, bridging gaps between urban development, planning, and visual culture literatures. By analyzing the political-economic and cultural dimensions of view commodification, this work offers a critical lens for understanding neoliberal urban transformation.

Urban expansion and landscape change analysis using remote sensing and survey: A case study in Ha Long bay area, Vietnam

Ha Long Bay - Cat Ba Archipelago — 2016 — WHE5364F78F48

Urban expansion and industrialization in the Ha Long Bay - Cat Ba Archipelago, Vietnam, have significantly altered landscape patterns over four decades. A study combining remote sensing data from 1973 to 2013 with a survey of 600 individuals revealed strong correlations between socio-spatial practices and land use changes. Multivariate analysis, particularly Multiple Correspondence Analysis (MCA), bridged the gap between satellite-derived measurements and on-the-ground human activities, offering a novel approach to understanding landscape dynamics. This method provides insights into how industrialization and urbanization reshape landscapes, with implications for sustainable development in UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Urban growth and cultural identity; fractures and imbalances in heritage values: A case study of the island of Saint-Louis, Senegal

Island of Saint-Louis — 2016 — WHE7005DEAC40

The island of Saint-Louis, Senegal, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000, faces significant fractures and imbalances in its heritage values due to rapid, unplanned urban growth and the overshadowing influence of Dakar. This study identifies key morphological and functional factors that have shaped the city's evolution, revealing how its unique French-influenced gridiron structure and cultural identity persist despite current decline. The research employs a case study approach, analyzing the island's development within its broader territorial context—including the mainland island of Sor and La Langue de la Barberie—to justify its enduring prestige as a heritage site. Findings underscore the tension between historical significance and contemporary urban challenges.

Urban Planning, Colonialism, and the Pro-Jerusalem Society

Old City of Jerusalem and its Walls — 2016 — WHECFE3B9A9B6

British colonial rule in Mandate Palestine (1917–1948) left a lasting imprint on Jerusalem's urban development and historical narrative. This study reveals how British policies, shaped by both European romanticization of the 'holy city' and modern nationalist contestations, constructed Jerusalem’s municipal borders and strategic agenda. By analyzing colonial imaginations alongside contemporary realities, the research sheds light on the historical formation of a modern city under colonial influence, with implications for its present-day significance.

Urban sustainability in Old City Centres, a Comparison Between the City of Najaf in Iraq and Italian Cities Experiences

Historic Centre of Florence — 2016 — WHE84FC67D754

Urban sustainability in historic city centers can be effectively achieved by integrating global best practices and local experiences, as demonstrated by comparing Najaf, Iraq, with Italian cities like Florence. The study highlights that Najaf's current urban conditions lag behind its cultural significance, despite its rarity and sanctity. By analyzing Italian cities' sustainable development strategies—such as those in Florence, Venice, and Bologna—the research identifies key planning dimensions for functional, structural, spatial, and cultural sustainability. Fieldwork in Najaf revealed critical gaps in infrastructure, demographics, economics, and environmental aspects, leading to a diagnostic framework of strengths and weaknesses. The paper proposes actionable restructuring plans for Najaf, drawing from Italian models to foster harmony between development and heritage preservation.

Urban transformations of historic areas: A case study of Nezir-Aga mosque complex, the Old Town of Mostar

Old Bridge Area of the Old City of Mostar — 2016 — WHE5513275EFA

Urban transformations in historic areas can successfully balance preservation and modernization, enhancing living conditions while maintaining cultural identity. A case study of the Nezir-Aga mosque complex in Mostar's Old Town demonstrates that systematic analysis of past changes—rooted in physical heritage and its underlying processes—provides a methodological framework for inclusive urban design. This approach resolves tensions between tradition and contemporary life, offering practical guidelines to inform future interventions in historic urban landscapes.

Urban vulnerability and adaptation to heatwaves: a case study of Graz (Austria)

City of Graz – Historic Centre and Schloss Eggenberg — 2016 — WHE94E8F0BF65

A medium-sized Central European city, Graz, exhibits significant vulnerability to heatwaves due to factors such as temperature, green space distribution, building construction periods, demographic and socioeconomic risks, adaptation strategies, and risk perception among decision-makers. While some vulnerable districts are identified and adaptation measures, particularly inter-organizational collaboration, have been effective, a key barrier remains the lack of efficient communication between researchers, policymakers, and the public. The study underscores the need for stronger climate change adaptation networks, more targeted information dissemination—especially for emergency organizations—and increased public awareness through media campaigns and workshops. This case study provides a replicable framework for assessing urban heatwave vulnerability in other cities.

Urbanization and human health in urban India: institutional analysis of water-borne diseases in Ahmedabad

Historic City of Ahmadabad — 2016 — WHE58BB7C9C82

Rapid urbanization, coupled with ageing infrastructure and governance inefficiencies, exacerbates the spread of water-borne diseases in Ahmedabad, India. The study identifies a vicious cycle driven by institutional factors, social actors exploiting systemic weaknesses, and political dynamics that perpetuate disease exposure. Using path dependency and rational choice perspectives, it analyzes data from 327 households across two wards through surveys and interviews over two years, applying principal component analysis to uncover underlying inefficiencies. Breaking this cycle requires addressing the political underpinnings of urban health disparities.

Use of Lightweight Lime Mortar in the Construction of the West Church of Umm el-Jimal, Jordan: Radiocarbon Dating and Characterization

Umm Al-Jimāl — 2016 — WHE3612BE4372

Radiocarbon dating of the West Church at Umm el-Jimal, Jordan, reveals its construction dates to the Late Roman–Early Byzantine periods (5th–6th centuries CE), contradicting earlier archaeological estimates. The study also identifies the use of lightweight lime mortar in the church's dome, characterized by hydraulic properties and scoria sourced from the nearby Quais volcanic cone. Researchers analyzed mortar samples using accelerator mass spectrometry, X-ray diffraction, petrographic microscopy, inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, and scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy to confirm the mineralogical and chemical composition of the scoria, supporting its local origin due to similarities in features and proximity.

Use of the Suburban Forest Areas for Outdoor Activities

Levoča, Spišský Hrad and the Associated Cultural Monuments — 2016 — WHEA956BCA5F3

A proposed network of 13 new outdoor activity routes, totaling 94.5 km, could significantly enhance tourism and sport potential in the suburban forests around Levoča, Spišský Hrad. The study analyzed existing transport accessibility (42.15 m/ha) and tourist use, identifying opportunities for hiking, biking, horse riding, roller skating, and cross-country skiing. Alongside these routes, additional service facilities—such as a recreation center, boarding accommodations, parking, and small recreational buildings—were recommended to boost the area's attractiveness and competitiveness.

Use Of Traditional Knowledge By Paddy Farming Communities Of Mahaulpatha In Polonnaruwa District In Sri Lanka

Ancient City of Polonnaruwa — 2016 — WHE5D5B39CF56

A significant decline in traditional knowledge (TK) among paddy farming communities in Mahaulpatha, Polonnaruwa District, Sri Lanka, has been documented. Despite the persistence of some practices—such as 57% of farmers still using straw manure before planting and 26% relying on rainfall patterns for cultivation—the study reveals a heavy reliance on modern chemical fertilizers (100%) post-sowing and machinery (87%) for land preparation, signaling a shift away from sustainable, eco-friendly methods. While TK, passed down through generations by observing natural phenomena, remains valuable, its erosion is evident. The research combines primary data—questionnaires, interviews, observations—and secondary data to highlight the tension between immediate productivity gains from modern inputs and long-term environmental sustainability. A localized awareness effort, integrating TK with modern techniques, was proposed as a solution.

Using Contingency Valuation Approaches to Assess Sustainable Cultural Heritage Tourism Use and Conservation of the Outstanding Universal Values (OUV) at Great Zimbabwe World Heritage Site in Zimbabwe

Great Zimbabwe National Monument — 2016 — WHE3EB3F17E16

Tourism at Great Zimbabwe World Heritage Site (GZWHS) is unsustainable, with tourism use falling short of the conservation needs required to protect its outstanding universal values (OUV). A study employing contingency valuation methods found that existing conservation strategies are inadequate and fail to address local environmental conditions effectively. This research highlights a critical imbalance between tourism benefits and conservation efforts, urging a shift in strategy to ensure sustainable heritage management.

Utilisation de deux outils hydroacoustiques pour analyser la dynamique migratoire du saumon atlantique (Salmo salar L.) dans deux fleuves de la baie du Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel and its Bay — 2016 — WHEBBDA66BC87

A recent study using hydroacoustic tools reveals that the functioning of a new estuary flood-gate dam on the Couesnon River, part of the Mont-Saint-Michel Bay, does not negatively impact Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) annual recruitment levels. However, it does influence their migration dynamics, potentially decreasing abundance or disturbing migration patterns. The study employed split-beam echosounder and DIDSON acoustic camera technologies to monitor salmon migrations in both the Couesnon River, where the dam is present, and a nearby free-flowing river, the Sélune River, for comparative analysis. These non-intrusive, turbidity-independent methods provided unprecedented insights into salmon migration dynamics, highlighting the advantages of acoustic cameras while also revealing their limitations.

Utzon’s Use of Light to Influence the Audience’s Perception of the Sydney Opera House

Sydney Opera House — 2016 — WHE06CDE90193

Architect Jørn Utzon's innovative use of both natural and artificial lighting at the Sydney Opera House significantly influences audience perception, reinforcing the building's architectural form while enhancing the theatrical experience. The study reveals that exterior and interior lighting serve as an extension of stage lighting, shaping the audience's interpretation of the performance spaces—ranging from 400 to 2,500 seats—and contributing to the overall narrative of productions, from ballet to opera. This approach bridges architectural design with theatrical storytelling, creating a cohesive experience that aligns with Utzon's vision for the building as both an icon and a dynamic performance environment.