Ancient Thebes with its Necropolis
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2015 —
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A study on the deterioration of ancient Egyptian royal tomb paintings in West Thebes, Egypt, identified microbial strains contributing to bio-deterioration. Three fungi (Fusarium oxysporum, Rhizopus stolonifer, Aspergillus flavus) and two bacteria (Staphylococcus warnei, Micrococcus luteus) were isolated from the paintings. The research found that nano-TiO2 at 160 ppm and plant extracts (Sesbania sesban and Ricinus communis) at 100 mg effectively eliminated microbial growth without altering pigments or binding media like arabic gum. While these treatments showed promise, potential risks of recolonization by viable cells left behind were noted.
Stevns Klint
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2015 —
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Laboratory studies reveal that reducing brine salinity and altering pH can shift carbonate rock wettability toward a less oil-wetting state, driven by changes in surface charge. This effect is consistent across different carbonate rock types—including Stevns Klint chalk, limestone, and dolomite—though chalk exhibits the highest reactivity to pH and salinity changes, while dolomite shows the least. Surface complexation modeling suggests that surface species like >CaSO4-, >CO3Ca+, and >CO3Mg+ significantly influence total surface charge, with pH increasing the zeta-potential by converting negatively charged moieties into neutral ones. These findings provide insights into reservoir behavior under varying salinity and pH conditions, offering a tractable approach to predicting carbonate rock electrokinetic properties.
Archaeological Heritage of the Lenggong Valley
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2015 —
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A targeted campaign significantly increased local youth's awareness of the value and willingness to participate in conserving Malaysia's Lenggong Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (WHS). The study analyzed 175 questionnaires from secondary school students before and after the campaign, revealing notable improvements in both heritage appreciation and conservation engagement. This demonstrates that community-based initiatives can effectively enhance local commitment to preserving WHS criteria, ensuring long-term sustainability.
Grand Canyon National Park
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2015 —
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Repeated prescribed fires with increased severity are necessary to effectively reduce white fir encroachment and promote aspen regeneration in Grand Canyon National Park's ponderosa pine and mixed conifer forests. The study found that single, low-severity burns did not alter tree composition or structure in white fir-encroached areas, while second-entry low-severity burns significantly reduced white fir densities. In dry mixed conifer forests, high-severity fire triggered substantial aspen regeneration. Researchers analyzed burn entry effects and severity on species composition and regeneration across two forest types, providing critical insights for future forest management strategies.
Noel Kempff Mercado National Park
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2015 —
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A 14,500-year sedimentary record from Huanchaca Mesetta in Noel Kempff Mercado National Park reveals the resilience of cerrãdo savanna ecosystems to past climate variability. The study found that while fire activity increased during the Holocene due to warming conditions, fuel availability decreased under prolonged dry seasons, shaping modern vegetation patterns. Natural drivers—soil, climate, and fire—rather than human influence have primarily controlled vegetation and fire regimes in this ecosystem. Analyzing phytoliths, stable isotopes, and charcoal provided high-resolution insights into past environmental changes.
Bikini Atoll Nuclear Test Site
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2015 —
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The militarization of the Pacific, driven by global geopolitical shifts and rising tensions, has profound negative impacts on both people and environments. Research spanning a decade reveals that contemporary social movements in the region are challenging military dominance, advocating for demilitarized security models based on mutual aid and international solidarity. By examining 'sacrificed' islands like Bikini Atoll, Okinawa, Hawai'i, and Guam, this study argues that the future of global politics hinges not on hegemonic control but on choosing between domination or a more egalitarian, cooperative system. The findings underscore the potential for local resistance to reshape international relations toward equity.
Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks
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2015 —
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Hopewell communities appear to have formally terminated their activities through ritualized practices, including burning structures and burying mounds with earth. At the Fort Ancient earthwork's Moorehead Circle, a complex of wooden posts, ceremonial features, and gravel trenches was found, with many posts removed in ways suggesting deliberate termination. This study highlights the structured nature of these rituals across multiple locations within the circle, offering new insights into the symbolic significance of post treatment in Hopewell culture.
Historic Centres of Berat and Gjirokastra
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2015 —
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Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Albania, particularly those in the Gjirokastra regionface significant cultural risks that impact their economic activity. Despite limited awareness among Albanian SMEs, these risks cannot be eliminated but must be managed effectively to sustain business operations. The study employed a quantitative approach using SPSS Statistics (version 21) with logistic regression analysis to assess the influence of cultural risk factors on SME performance. Findings indicate that cultural risk, though underrecognized, plays a substantial role in shaping business outcomes, necessitating greater attention from stakeholders to mitigate potential negative effects.
Old and New Towns of Edinburgh
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2015 —
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A new edition of 'The Evergreen: A New Season in the North' revives the legacy of Patrick Geddes's 19th-century journal, blending contemporary Scottish cultural politics with historical insights. This publication, edited by Sean Bradley and Elizabeth Elliott, explores the significance of place-based identity and sustainable urban living, drawing parallels to Geddes's 'civics' approach that integrated aesthetic and scientific perspectives. It includes diverse contributions from international authors, reflecting on local traditions while addressing modern challenges such as immigration and urban renewal. The edition supports the Edinburgh Old Town Development Trust, emphasizing its role in revitalizing Scotland's historic capital. Its design, inspired by the original Arts and Crafts movement yet modernized, underscores a commitment to both heritage preservation and contemporary relevance.
Frontiers of the Roman Empire – Dacia
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2015 —
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Roman frontier policy during its expansion was characterized by a unique approach that balanced defense with permeability, allowing for the free movement of people and goods—a stark contrast to modern frontier concepts. This study reveals that despite Rome's ideological claim of infinite territorial reach, its actual frontiers evolved dynamically over a millennium, adapting to challenges posed by external threats. The research highlights Dacia as a prime example of this complex system, where frontier development peaked during the 2nd century AD, reflecting Rome's innovative strategies for securing its borders while maintaining cultural and economic exchange. By analyzing historical records and archaeological evidence, the study reconstructs how Roman frontier policies evolved in response to territorial expansion and external pressures.
Yin Xu
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2015 —
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Excavations at the Wangyukou Locus South in Yin Xu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a key Shang Dynasty archaeological site in Anyang, Henan, revealed significant insights into the social structure of diviner groups during this period. Two tombs, M103 and M94, were identified as part of a potential family cemetery linked to a named diviner from oracle bone inscriptions. These tombs, dating to Phases II and III respectively, exhibited distinct characteristics that provide rare evidence for studying the hierarchical positions of diviners and their evolution over time. The excavation, conducted by the Anyang Archaeological Team between March and December 2009, uncovered roads, house foundations, wells, ash pits, sacrificial pits, and burials, offering a comprehensive view of Shang Dynasty life and ritual practices.
Natural System of Wrangel Island Reserve
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2015 —
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Scientists report the first documented finding of a freshwater snail, Sibirenauta sibiricus, on Wrangel Island, a remote Arctic site. This discovery marks the first record of a freshwater mollusc species in this region, challenging previous assumptions about its biodiversity. Researchers compared specimens from the island with the type series to confirm their identity and briefly discussed potential migration pathways for aquatic molluscs to the Arctic. The study, published in <em>Polar Research</em>, sheds light on the island's ecological history and contributes to our understanding of Arctic freshwater ecosystems.
Isole Eolie (Aeolian Islands)
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2015 —
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A groundbreaking ultra-high resolution Digital Terrain Model (DTM) of the shallow-water sector around Lipari Island, part of Italy's UNESCO-listed Aeolian Islands, reveals intricate volcanic, erosive-depositional, and anthropic features previously unseen in such detail. This first-of-its-kind multibeam bathymetric survey, covering depths from 0.1 to 150 meters, provides unprecedented insights into the island's shallow seafloor morphology, complementing existing data collected at greater depths (100–1300 meters). The resulting maps, with resolutions of 0.1 to 0.5 meters, highlight the dynamic nature of this active volcanic area and identify potential geohazard factors in shallow waters, offering critical implications for coastal management and hazard assessment.
Historic Centre of Florence
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2015 —
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The House of Medici, as rulers and patrons of Florence from the mid-15th to mid-18th centuries, not only significantly shaped the Renaissance but also epitomized it through their extensive contributions to cultural heritage. This study evaluates eight key Medici figures, analyzing their patronage in art, literature, science, and architecture while contextualizing these efforts within the social, political, economic, and geopolitical conditions of their time. By examining how the Medici leveraged historical knowledge and contemporary culture to solidify their legacy, the research provides a novel perspective on their role in defining the Renaissance. The findings underscore the critical importance of preservation efforts for cultural heritage, as evidenced by ICOMOS' support for UNESCO's designation of Florence's Historic Centre as a World Heritage Site.
Archaeological Heritage of the Lenggong Valley
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2015 —
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Two species of babblers, the Chestnut-winged Babbler (Stachyris erythroptera) and Abbott's Babbler (Malacocincla abbotti), coexist in the lowland rainforest of Lenggong Valley, Malaysia, despite their similar dietary habits. This coexistence is enabled by distinct foraging tactics: the Chestnut-winged Babbler primarily uses stretching manoeuvres to reach food, while Abbott's Babbler relies on gleaning. The study, conducted from July 2010 to July 2011, analyzed foraging height, substrates, and attack manoeuvres using principal component analysis and Pearson's correlation. Both species utilized similar proportions of low-height foraging (>0-2 m) and dead leaves as substrates but differed in their attack strategies, supporting Gause's Law of competitive exclusion by demonstrating niche separation.
Royal Tombs of the Joseon Dynasty
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2015 —
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A unique burial tradition, the 'Won' tombs of the Joseon Dynasty, emerged as an intermediary status between royal 'neung' and common 'myo' tombs. This study reveals that Won tombs were invented by King Injo to honor his deceased parents post-coup d'état but gained prominence under King Yeongjo, who established a distinct system ('Gungwonje') for elite royals, including concubines and heirs. By the end of the Dynasty, 21 Won tombs were created, with 15 surviving intact today. Unlike royal 'neung' tombs, Won tombs lack retaining stones or military statues, featuring only one pair of stone animals—half the number found in neung. This research highlights Won as a valuable historical artifact reflecting Joseon's complex royal lineage dynamics and burial hierarchies.
Hoi An Ancient Town
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2015 —
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Hoi An Ancient Town's historic conservation system is distinguished by three key features: funding from tourist ticket revenues, state-led regeneration of buildings, and the involvement of professional organizations in preserving both tangible and intangible cultural heritage. This study reveals that these elements have been crucial in shaping effective conservation policies and their implementation. By analyzing policy formulation and execution processes, researchers identified how financial mechanisms, government leadership, and specialized expertise collectively contribute to the town's preservation efforts.
Angkor
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2015 —
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Angkor Wat, renowned for its role as a Vishnuite temple in the 12th and 13th centuries, underwent significant fortifications between the late 13th and early 17th centuries. Analysis of masonry holes and structural modifications to its outer walls reveals that wooden defensive structures were erected, suggesting Angkor Wat's final attempt at defense during this period. The study investigates these traces to reconstruct the site's later phases, providing new insights into its adaptive reuse and strategic significance.
Singapore Botanic Gardens
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2015 —
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During the period preceding the Japanese attack on Malaya, significant disruptions to botanical work at Singapore Botanic Gardens were observed. Most senior staff were temporarily reassigned to other duties under the Departments of Food Control and Information, leading to a marked reduction in botanical activities. This shift highlights the broader impact of political instability on scientific institutions, demonstrating how external events can alter research priorities and operational focus.
Singapore Botanic Gardens
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2015 —
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During the pre-World War II period, particularly prior to the Japanese attack on Malaya, the Singapore Botanic Gardens experienced significant disruptions in botanical work. Senior staff were seconded for duties under the Departments of Food Control and Information, leading to a marked reduction in botanical activities. This historical account highlights the impact of wartime conditions on scientific research and institutional operations at one of Southeast Asia's notable botanical institutions.
Gebel Barkal and the Sites of the Napatan Region
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2015 —
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Giuseppe Verdi's opera Aïda, first performed in 1871, draws inspiration from the historical stelae discovered at Gebel Barkal, the ancient Nubian capital of Napata. Research reveals that French Egyptologist Auguste Mariette, who suggested the opera's scenario in 1865, based it on motifs found in five stelae unearthed in 1862 and other historical sources dating from the 8th to 3rd centuries BCE. While Aïda is not grounded in an actual historical narrative, it incorporates elements such as the trial and execution of an innocent man—parallels seen in Mariette's historical collage and the opera's plot—illustrating how Mariette combined ancient Nubian themes during a pivotal period of archaeological discovery.
Nubian Monuments from Abu Simbel to Philae
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2015 —
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This study reveals that the Temple of Abu Simbel's location and unique design were primarily driven by political and conceptual factors during the reign of Ramses II, rather than religious tradition. By employing hermeneutic analysis—examining parts to understand the whole and then contextualizing it within a broader framework—the research demonstrates the validity of this approach in uncovering new dimensions about historical monuments. The study leverages Norberg-Schulz's Genius Loci concept and Heidegger's anticipatory fore-structures to interpret the temple's significance, offering fresh insights into its architectural language.
Durham Castle and Cathedral
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2015 —
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Durham Cathedral's hybrid pier, featuring spiral and chevron fluting, challenges the symmetry of its transepts and is the only pier framing an altar space with non-exclusively spiral ornamentation. Reassessing this anomaly through historical, archaeological, and architectural evidence reveals a possible connection to earlier stone churches constructed for St. Cuthbert's shrine. Twelfth-century sources and minor excavations suggest that these churches may have run parallel to the Norman nave, with their presbytery located beneath the hybrid pier. Surviving features in the northeast cloister walk imply the existence of a temporary shrine structure, prompting a reconsideration of the pier's design significance. This study sheds light on Norman churchmen's attitudes toward the cult of Northumbrian saint St. Cuthbert.
Pantanal Conservation Area
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2015 —
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A study in the Pantanal Conservation Area revealed that cattle predation by jaguars and pumas is significantly influenced by herd composition and environmental factors. Predation rates increased with higher water levels of the Paraguay River, which forced herds to concentrate on higher ground near forested areas, making them more vulnerable to attacks. Conversely, a greater proportion of adult cattle in the herd reduced predation frequency, likely due to defensive behaviors that protected younger animals. Juveniles were disproportionately targeted by predators. Over 50% of recorded livestock mortality events were attributed to big cat predation, resulting in an annual loss of up to 2.83% of the average herd size and financial losses of approximately $22,400. These findings highlight critical factors that predispose cattle to predation, offering potential management strategies to mitigate losses and reduce human-wildlife conflict.
Abbey of St Gall
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2015 —
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Graphic representations of monastic hydraulic systems, preserved through centuries in manuscripts from Saint-Gall Abbey, Christchurch, and Vallbona de les Monges, offer critical insights into the 'invisible architecture' beneath these UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These drawings reveal intricate water supply channels, irrigation rights, and pumping mechanisms that were integral to monastic life but have largely vanished today. The study highlights how early Christian monasticism transitioned from anchoritic lifestyles to organized communities with sophisticated hydraulic infrastructure, demonstrating the enduring significance of graphic documentation in understanding historical engineering practices.
Pimachiowin Aki
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2015 —
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Poplar River First Nation's bid to designate their traditional trapline territory as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Pimachiowin Aki represents a groundbreaking Indigenous-led initiative. This effort leverages global recognition to achieve local goals, challenging conventional development paradigms and ensuring the permanence of cultural practices. Despite its small population, the community's resistance to non-renewable resource exploitation has garnered significant attention in Manitoba, Canada, and internationally. The study highlights the transformative potential of Indigenous-led conservation efforts in redefining land protection and sustainable development.
The Sundarbans
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2015 —
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Despite maintaining its vast extent, the Indian Sundarbans mangrove forest has experienced significant changes in health and structure over the past two-and-a-half centuries due to human interference, upstream development, extreme weather events, and climate change effects. This study reveals that while the areal coverage of the mangroves has remained relatively stable recently, their ecological integrity is under threat. Researchers used a multi-temporal and multi-scale approach, combining historical maps and remote sensing data, to trace these changes. The findings underscore the complex interplay between conservation strategies, local livelihoods, and environmental pressures, highlighting the need for adaptive management to protect this critical ecosystem.
Saryarka – Steppe and Lakes of Northern Kazakhstan
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2015 —
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Archaeological evidence from the Saryarka region reveals that early Scythian nomads incorporated Indo-Aryan imagery, specifically the 'Raja-Sardula' motif, into their art, challenging traditional narratives about Eurasian steppe cultures. This study bridges a gap in historical records by analyzing artefacts featuring tiger imagery, characteristic of the Scythian animal style, and connecting them to ethnographic data from Indo-Aryan sources. The findings suggest cultural exchanges between these nomadic tribes and Indo-Aryan populations, offering new insights into the social and symbolic practices of early Eurasian steppe societies.
Archaeological Heritage of the Lenggong Valley
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2015 —
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A study on the Archaeological Heritage of the Lenggong Valley reveals that its brand personality significantly influences tourists' evaluation of its image. The research identified six key dimensions—competence, sophistication, sincerity, ruggedness, demonstrative, and emotional—with four (sincerity, ruggedness, sophistication, and demonstrative) positively impacting brand perception. Notably, the dimensions 'demonstrative' and 'emotional' emerged as new contributions to tourism marketing literature. The study analyzed responses from 300 tourists at the Lenggong Valley Archaeological Gallery using Aaker’s (1997) brand personality framework, providing insights into how destination personality shapes archaeological tourism experiences.
Town of Luang Prabang
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2015 —
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French colonial rule (1893–1953) left a lasting architectural imprint on Lao PDR, blending traditional Lao and French elements into climate-adapted designs that persist today. Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995, exemplifies this fusion, where colonial villas subtly influenced local residential structures while retaining cultural authenticity. The study analyzes how social, economic, and climatic factors reshaped these styles, emphasizing their compatibility with tropical conditions. By examining historical adaptations, the research highlights the resilience of Lao architecture in preserving heritage amid foreign influences.
The Sassi and the Park of the Rupestrian Churches of Matera
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2015 —
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A unique urban phenomenon in Matera, Italy, characterized by the volumetric material identity and special construction conditions of its excavated architectures, has been identified. This phenomenon, developed over time under stable environmental conditions, showcases a spontaneous harmonious balance between building artifacts and their calcareous host texture. The study employed an integrated survey approach using non-destructive techniques such as digital photogrammetry, total station, laser scanner, and thermography to create a three-dimensional computer model. This model aids in the diagnosis and preservation of the integrity of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, combining traditional and innovative methods within a dialectic between memory and design.
Vatican City
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2015 —
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The international legal status of the Vatican/Holy See complex (VHS) does not meet criteria for statehood, according to a re-examination of its claims. The study argues that traditional grounds cited—such as diplomatic exchanges, membership in international agreements, and historical treaties like the 1929 Lateran Pacts—do not confer state status under international law. Diplomatic interactions remain missionary and hierarchical, lacking the reciprocity or customary obligations typical of sovereign states. Since the eclipse of the papal state in 1870, the VHS's legal standing has remained unchanged, despite its participation in global organizations. The research emphasizes that the Roman Catholic Church, as one among many faith-based movements, should not be privileged in temporal governance under international law.
Town of Luang Prabang
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2015 —
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Balancing conservation priorities and local development needs is critical for sustaining living heritage sites, such as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This study highlights the risks when conservation efforts dominate, potentially disrupting social fabric and undermining community well-being—illustrated by Luang Prabang in Lao PDR. Through comparative analysis of Nan (Thailand) and Luang Prabang, researchers used interviews, field surveys, and documentary data to assess living heritage attributes and their evolution over time. The findings underscore the necessity for collaborative stakeholder networks to maintain equilibrium between preservation demands and local development, ensuring the long-term viability of such sites.
Monte San Giorgio
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2015 —
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A newly excavated site at Monte San Giorgio has revealed a Ladinian flora from the Cassina beds of the Lower Meride Limestone. The study identifies at least five plant species, with conifer remains—particularly Elatocladus cassinae n. sp., Voltzia, and ?Pelourdea—being the most prevalent. Additionally, seed ferns (Ptilozamites) and possible cycadalean remains (?Taeniopteris) were found. Among these, only Voltzia had been previously documented at Monte San Giorgio. The research suggests a diverse flora thrived in the region during the Ladinian period, with preservation patterns indicating a taphonomically-biased record and a distant source area. This discovery provides new insights into the paleobotanical history of the site.
Historic Centre of Saint Petersburg and Related Groups of Monuments
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2015 —
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Saint Petersburg, renowned for its architectural beauty and designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, faces significant challenges to the preservation of its historical landscapes. A study analyzing landscape development from 1853 to 2003 reveals that modern urban planning has disrupted the city's compositional unity, particularly in central squares, green areas near landmarks like the Old Stock Exchange, and the Peter and Paul Fortress esplanade. These changes conflict with UNESCO criteria for heritage preservation. The research identifies key losses, such as the fragmentation of open spaces and encroachment by buildings, while proposing recommendations to restore lost value and improve urban harmony. This work underscores the tension between contemporary development and historical integrity in one of Europe's most culturally significant cities.
Angkor
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2015 —
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Recent advancements in LiDAR technology have revolutionized the understanding of Angkor Wat's landscape, revealing a complex far more extensive and intricate than previously believed. This breakthrough has enabled archaeologists to map hidden terrain beneath dense vegetation, uncovering previously unknown relationships between site elements and exposing a massive, unique structure that was hitherto unknown. The study, which combines high-resolution LiDAR data with targeted ground-based research, provides unprecedented chronological resolution and challenges long-standing assumptions about the Angkor Wat complex.
Byblos
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2015 —
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Digital photogrammetric modeling of the Lion's Gate at Byblos' Persian Wall demonstrates a promising approach to enhance the dissemination of cultural heritage and support urban planning efforts. This method, applied as part of a broader strategy for preserving the UNESCO-listed archaeological site, offers remote access to historical data for scholars, tourists, and planners. The preliminary research suggests that such digital representations can bridge gaps in knowledge transfer and aid in the valorization of resilient cities like Byblos, which is also recognized as one of the '100 Resilient Cities.' Future surveys aim to expand this model into a shared web repository, further enriching the understanding and conservation of this ancient site.
Timbuktu
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2015 —
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In the face of Al Qaeda's control over Timbuktu, Mali, in 2012, an unprecedented cultural heritage evacuation successfully rescued 95% of the city's ancient manuscripts—hundreds of thousands of scientific, literary, and religious texts. This achievement, one of the most brazen cultural heritage evacuations ever attempted, highlights the effectiveness of cross-disciplinary collaboration among unlikely allies in preserving historical treasures during conflict. The study examines three critical phases: preparation, evacuation, and continued preservation, offering valuable insights for cultural heritage institutions worldwide.
Monuments of Oviedo and the Kingdom of the Asturias
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2015 —
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Prehistoric megalithic monuments, such as those near Covadonga in Asturias, Spain, held significant symbolic power even during the turbulent transition from the Visigoth Kingdom to the Christian Kingdom of Asturias. The study reveals that King Pelayo and his successor Favila strategically chose these ancient sites for burial, associating themselves with 'ancestral power' to legitimize their rule amidst political instability following the Arab invasion. This pattern of symbolic capitalization persisted into modern times when Felipe VI was invested as Prince of Asturias in 1977, drawing on the same historical roots. The research approach combines historiography and archaeological context to demonstrate how prehistoric monuments served as instruments of political legitimacy across centuries.
City of Verona
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2015 —
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Late medieval cities, including Verona, were characterized by political systems where conflict was not merely disruptive but an integral part of governance. This study reveals that urban conflicts during the 14th and 15th centuries in Italy and Southern Low Countries were embedded within polycentric political orders, involving multiple units like guilds and external agencies. These conflicts shaped distinct political organizations across cities such as Bologna, Florence, Verona, Liège, Lille, and Tournai, demonstrating that conflict was a legitimized and strategic component of urban politics. The research highlights diverse strategies for addressing conflict, including modes of behavior and forms of association, which varied significantly between cities.
Pre-Hispanic City of Teotihuacan
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2015 —
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The Teotihuacan Mapping Project (TMP) revolutionized archaeological mapping by addressing the origin of the ancient city through innovative methods and long-term commitment. Key to its success was defining urban spaces beyond living areas, using low-altitude aerial photography, strategic test excavations, and computerized data management. The project's ability to tackle a significant problem with diverse expertise allowed it to overcome unprecedented challenges in archaeology. While some descriptive data remains unpublished, the TMP's legacy lies in its systematic approach and lessons for future large-scale archaeological endeavors.
Vredefort Dome
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2015 —
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Residents and tourists in the Vredefort Dome World Heritage Site, South Africa, prioritize protecting the area's unique character, nature, and history when considering development. This study identified three key themes—affective, anthropogenic, and physical environment—that shape their sense of place. Using qualitative methods, including non-probability sampling and content analysis, researchers found that participants exhibit strong awareness for conservation, highlighting gaps in current development planning. These insights could guide stakeholders to better engage communities in sustainable conservation efforts, balancing tourism growth with heritage preservation.
Lines and Geoglyphs of Nasca and Palpa
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2015 —
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Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) emerges as a powerful tool for monitoring and preserving the Lines and Geoglyphs of Nasca and Pampas de Jumana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Peru. This study demonstrates that SAR is uniquely suited to investigate both the environment surrounding the geoglyphs and the geoglyphs themselves, offering unprecedented insights into the human activities and natural processes that threaten their integrity. By categorizing geoglyphs based on structural differences, SAR provides a foundation for a comprehensive geoglyph catalogue, enabling more effective conservation strategies. The research leverages airborne SAR technology to detect disturbances, thereby addressing critical gaps in the understanding of these colossal ground drawings and their vulnerabilities.
Baalbek
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2015 —
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A comprehensive study of the megalithic quarry at Baalbek, Lebanon, reveals critical insights into the ancient stone-cutting techniques and the extensive network of quarries used to supply the monumental temples recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The research, conducted collaboratively between the Lebanese University and the German Expedition of Baalbek, documents the quarry's features in Sector III, known as Ḥajjar al-Ḥibla, providing detailed evidence of the sophisticated methods employed by ancient craftsmen. This study builds on earlier excavations initiated in 1898–1903, offering a broader understanding of the quarry's role in the construction of Baalbek's iconic structures, particularly the Temple of Jupiter. The findings contribute significantly to the archaeological narrative of this site, which has been under continuous investigation since its recognition as a World Heritage Site in 1984.
Sydney Opera House
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2015 —
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A significant yet overlooked influence on Jørn Utzon's design for the Sydney Opera House is Chinese architecture, primarily through the interpretations of Finnish art historian Osvald Sirén. This study reveals that Utzon, despite his forced resignation from the project in 1966, drew inspiration from Sirén's scholarly works on Chinese architecture, which had been largely ignored in historical accounts. By analyzing Utzon's design proposals, private collections, and interviews with colleagues, researchers identified direct analogies between Chinese architectural elements and Utzon's reinterpretation of them in the Opera House's design. The study also explores the socio-political contexts shaping Sirén's and Utzon's perspectives on Chinese architecture, providing a deeper understanding of Utzon's creative process.
Kyiv: Saint-Sophia Cathedral and Related Monastic Buildings, Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra
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A critical analysis of heat-moisture exchange dynamics within the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra cave complex reveals the necessity for rigorous validation of measurement accuracy and initial parameters to ensure reliable modeling. The study emphasizes that deviations in device precision or misinterpretation of moisture state laws can significantly distort findings, underscoring the importance of methodological rigor in environmental studies of such heritage sites. This work provides a framework for assessing the validity of heat-moisture transfer studies, which is essential for preserving microclimatic conditions critical to the conservation of cultural and archaeological assets.
Mantua and Sabbioneta
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2015 —
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Live opera broadcasts that align with the time and location of their libretto challenge traditional notions of authenticity and performance. The study examines how these 'overdetermined' productions, such as <em>Rigoletto Live from Mantua</em>, blend opera's historical narrative with real-time broadcasting, creating a unique mediatized experience. By analyzing this intersection, researchers reveal how material spaces (like UNESCO-listed Mantua) and performative elements interact to redefine audience engagement, merging theatrical tradition with contemporary media dynamics.
Studenica Monastery
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2015 —
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New evidence from the royal tombs at Studenica Monastery, Serbia, suggests that the sarcophagus of Stefan Nemanja was part of the original church design and housed the relics of St Symeon, whose remains were said to exude myrrh. This finding challenges previous assumptions about the monastery's burial practices and provides insight into Byzantine cult traditions, particularly the phenomenon of myrrh-exuding relics. The study combines architectural analysis with comparative material culture research to reconstruct the historical context and significance of these tombs.
Curonian Spit
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2015 —
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Research reveals significant anthropogenic impacts on the landscapes of Curonian and Vistula Spits, with 55% and 52% of areas respectively showing the first stage of digression from natural conditions. The study employed a complex component-wise analysis using 15 categorized indicators to assess landscape transformation due to both natural and human activities. Findings indicate that while some areas remain relatively intact (I stage), others exhibit more pronounced alterations, with 6% and 20% of the spits showing advanced stages of digression (III-V). This research underscores the need for targeted conservation efforts to mitigate further degradation of these unique coastal-marine landscapes.
Naval Port of Karlskrona
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2015 —
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A unique social history emerges from Karlskrona, Sweden's naval city, revealing the pivotal role of Jewish entrepreneurs within its distinctive maritime environment. This study sheds light on how the Jewish parish of Karlskrona contributed to shaping perceptions and ideas in a Swedish iteration of the international naval city phenomenon. By analyzing historical records and community dynamics, the research uncovers the intersection of cultural, economic, and social factors that defined this coastal urban landscape during its formative years.
