Abu Mena
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Abu Mena, a significant late antique pilgrimage site near Alexandria, Egypt, is renowned for its association with the martyr Saint Mena and a collection of miraculous tales attributed to him. This study focuses on 13 Greek miracle narratives (BHG 1256–1269), particularly those detailing miraculous healings from illnesses, while also considering an additional collection linked to another saint named Mena καλλικέλαδος (BHG 1254m). The research reveals that these accounts not only highlight the spiritual significance of Abu Mena but also provide valuable insights into the development and spread of its cult, especially in Constantinople from the 9th century onward. By analyzing these narratives, the study offers a deeper understanding of the cultural and religious dynamics surrounding this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Fossil Hominid Sites of South Africa
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A decade-long teaching experience in the Cradle of Humankind, South Africa's Fossil Hominid Sites, reveals that integrating architectural heritage with sustainable development requires a recalibrated mindset and adaptive pedagogy. The study highlights the need to balance the preservation of local architectural memory with future-oriented sustainability, using autoethnographic methodology to intertwine personal observations, academic experiences in DR Congo and Rwanda, and literature reviews. This approach fosters inclusive learning that transcends boundaries, addressing renewed challenges for architects while enhancing students' awareness of their potential.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (formerly Victoria Terminus)
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Successful urban tunneling in heritage-rich Mumbai was achieved through strategic mitigation of complex challenges. The study highlights that comprehensive geotechnical investigations and pre-construction surveys can effectively address construction-induced settlements, vibrations, and structural impacts on dilapidated buildings and holy sites. The UGC02 Project of the Mumbai Metro Line 3, involving twin-tube bored tunnels (Vaitarna-1 and Vaitarna-2), demonstrated that proactive monitoring, structural audits, and legal resolutions can mitigate frivolous claims and ensure project completion without significant disruptions to urban infrastructure or heritage sites. This approach sets a precedent for future urban tunneling projects in congested, historically sensitive areas.
Ha Long Bay - Cat Ba Archipelago
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Overtourism in Ha Long Bay is severely straining the region's natural and cultural resources, threatening its long-term sustainability. The study identifies critical challenges including environmental degradation, sociocultural disruptions, and diminished visitor satisfaction due to overcrowding and inadequate tourism management. Key contributing factors include exceeded carrying capacity, localized overload, and insufficient public awareness of responsible tourism practices. Solutions proposed involve stricter visitor number controls, diversification of tourism products, promotion of eco-tourism, enhanced governance, stricter environmental regulations, and widespread awareness campaigns. A coordinated approach is deemed essential to balance tourism growth with the preservation of Ha Long Bay's unique heritage status.
Samarra Archaeological City
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A groundbreaking archaeological project, spanning from 2016 to 2024, has uncovered 120 previously unknown sites in Iraq, shedding light on the landscapes and urbanization cycles of Mesopotamia from the fourth millennium BC to modern times. The QADIS project, led by the University of Bologna in collaboration with the State Board of Antiquities and Heritage, employed a multifaceted approach combining surface surveys, remote sensing, geoarchaeology, and machine-learning algorithms for site detection. Excavations at the imperial capitals of Nineveh and Aqar Quf/Dur-Kurigalzu have revealed new monumental structures, city gates, administrative buildings, and cuneiform libraries. This research not only advances our understanding of the earliest Mesopotamian cities but also contributes to the protection and enhancement of Iraq's endangered archaeological heritage.
Site of Palmyra
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High-resolution satellite prospection, leveraging Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) from the TerraSAR-X mission, has revolutionized archaeological research at UNESCO World Heritage Site Palmyra. This integrated approach combines ground-based geophysical methods like magnetometry and resistivity with space-borne techniques such as optical satellite imagery and radar to provide both detailed and broad-scale insights into the ancient city's layout and buried structures. While ground-based methods confirmed the existence of a Hellenistic town south of Wadi el Kubur, mapping its intricate layout, space-borne surveys revealed upstanding remains and uncovered new buried archaeological features, significantly advancing our understanding of Palmyra's cultural landscape.
Site of Palmyra
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Palmyra emerges as a pivotal crossroads between the Mediterranean and Eastern trade routes, showcasing its strategic significance during antiquity. This study reveals Palmyra's dynamic interplay with the Roman Empire, highlighting how it leveraged its unique position to assert influence despite being on the empire's fringes. The research examines Palmyrene society's multifaceted roles—ranging from traders and contractors to political and military leaders—and their ability to navigate and capitalize on the complexities of a rapidly evolving world. By integrating archaeological and historical evidence, the study underscores Palmyra's dual identity: deeply rooted in its local context while simultaneously engaging with broader global networks.
Manovo-Gounda St Floris National Park
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2025 —
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Scientific clarification of Panicum fluviicola's taxonomic identity and distribution. This study resolves long-standing ambiguity by designating lectotypes for P. fluviicola and its synonyms, confirming the species' widespread presence across tropical Africa from marshes to cultivated rice fields at 60–1600 m elevation. It also clarifies nomenclature conflicts (e.g., P. purpurascens, P. radicosum) by designating lectotypes for these taxa, ensuring stable identification. The research relies on herbarium specimen analysis and protologue alignment, providing a foundation for future ecological or agronomic studies.
Syracuse and the Rocky Necropolis of Pantalica
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A critical reassessment of Pantalica, a UNESCO World Heritage Site near Syracuse, Sicily, challenges traditional mythologized narratives by grounding its historical reconstruction in archaeological data and scientific research. The study, conducted over three years through field surveys, material analysis at the Paolo Orsi Regional Archaeological Museum, and archaeometric techniques, reveals a stratified landscape of human occupation spanning from prehistory (1250–750 BC) to the Greek period and Middle Ages. Key findings include the site's complex topographical features and regional connections, explored under the CHANGES project's theme of 'extra-urban stratified landscapes.' The research also emphasizes the potential of digital communication for heritage dissemination, offering a robust interdisciplinary framework for understanding Pantalica's significance.
Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi
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2025 —
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The mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi serves as a significant pantheon for the Kazakh people, playing a crucial role in their funeral rites and preserving nomadic traditions. This study reveals that the mausoleum is not only a burial site for revered figures like Khans, bi-sheshens (lawyers), and batyrs but also reflects the nomadic worldview through rituals such as 'put in trust,' which temporarily preserves corpses. By integrating ethnographic and archaeological materials, the research sheds light on the historical practices of early nomads and their enduring influence on Kazakh burial customs.
Papahānaumokuākea
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2025 —
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Papahānaumokuākea, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a critical marine ecosystem, is set to be designated as a National Marine Sanctuary by the NOAA. This decision aims to protect its significant biological, cultural, and historical resources while integrating it into the National Marine Sanctuary System. The Final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) outlines potential management strategies for the sanctuary, addressing environmental considerations under the Hawaiʻi Environmental Policy Act (HEPA), National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), and the National Marine Sanctuaries Act (NMSA). Accompanied by a sanctuary management plan, this EIS evaluates various alternatives to ensure sustainable conservation of the region's unique marine environment.
Papahānaumokuākea
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2025 —
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Papahānaumokuākea, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest marine protected areas in the world, is set to be designated as a National Marine Sanctuary by NOAA. This decision aims to recognize its significant biological, cultural, and historical value while ensuring continued protection under the National Marine Sanctuary System. The final environmental impact statement (EIS) evaluates multiple management alternatives for the sanctuary, including the expansion of the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument. Prepared in collaboration with the State of Hawaiʻi and adhering to federal and state environmental laws, this EIS provides a comprehensive framework for safeguarding the region's unique ecosystems. Accompanied by a detailed management plan, it outlines goals, strategies, and actions to preserve this ecologically critical area for future generations.
Historic Areas of Istanbul
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A novel methodology for optimizing roof covering designs in historic buildings, particularly those with open courtyards, has been developed to balance visual comfort and energy efficiency. The study demonstrates that parametric modeling using Rhinoceros3D/Grasshopper3D, combined with Ladybug and Honeybee plugins, can effectively evaluate solar heat gain, light transmittance, and area properties of transparent surfaces like ETFE. This approach ensures visual harmony while mitigating the greenhouse effect in enclosed courtyards, as illustrated by a case study on one of Mimar Sinan's buildings in Istanbul. The findings highlight the feasibility of using steel and ETFE for contemporary interventions, offering a scalable solution for preserving historic structures while adapting to modern needs.
Rietveld Schröderhuis (Rietveld Schröder House)
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Architectural projects employing modular or discrete parts to achieve expressive wholes, such as the Rietveld Schröder House and contemporary designs like the Hemeroscopium House, demonstrate that joints, edges, and modules can serve as key aesthetic and functional elements. This approach, rooted in tectonic principles inspired by Kenneth Frampton's work, highlights how prefabrication, construction sequences, and on-site logistics shape modular architectures. The study underscores the potential of part-to-whole logics to redefine architectural expression while addressing practical constraints like transportation and assembly.
Medina of Tunis
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Low-cost, community-led photogrammetry emerges as a viable tool for documenting and assessing the condition of decayed historic buildings in resource-limited settings. A collaborative effort between local civil society and academic partners successfully applied image-based photogrammetry to Fondok El Henna, an abandoned caravanserai in the UNESCO-listed Medina of Tunis, identifying key agents of deterioration such as water ingress, biological growth, and human-induced damage. This modular approach, combining field data collection by locally trained teams with remote processing by experts, demonstrated that affordable photogrammetry can produce accurate 3D models while lowering technical barriers and enhancing local conservation capacity. The methodology not only supports heritage preservation but also serves as a scalable model for documenting neglected sites globally, particularly in contexts lacking conventional resources or institutional support.
Old Town of Ghadamès
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Ghadamès, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Libya's Fezzan region, exemplifies the extreme expression of Mediterranean architectural heritage. Unlike typical Mediterranean cities, Ghadamès' urban fabric is defined by compactness and minimal open spaces, driven not only by climate but also by the need to preserve agricultural land for food production in this water-scarce oasis environment. The city's architecture further distinguishes itself through its innovative reuse of archaeological spolia, demonstrating a high level of attention to both public and private space quality. This study highlights Ghadamès as a critical case study, illustrating how Mediterranean architectural principles can adapt to extreme environmental constraints while sustaining cultural continuity.
Old town of Regensburg with Stadtamhof
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Regensburg's medieval Jewish community, though historically significant and internationally important, has left little visible trace in the UNESCO-listed Old Town. This study reveals how Jewish cultural heritage is currently presented in museums and the old town, highlighting the role of various actors—cultural, political, and scientific—in shaping its narrative. A key finding is the limited engagement of the present-day Jewish community in defining and preserving their heritage, despite efforts to foster participation through collaborative projects like a DFG-funded initiative. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining historical analysis with participatory strategies to explore opportunities and challenges in patrimonialization. The study underscores the need for inclusive approaches to ensure active community involvement in heritage preservation.
Colonial City of Santo Domingo
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The restoration of Santo Domingo's colonial city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1990, has historically glorified European conquerors while obscuring the contributions and suffering of Indigenous peoples and African slaves. This study reveals that such restorations have perpetuated a one-sided narrative, despite efforts like UNESCO’s 'Slave Route' project. The research highlights the need for comprehensive historical studies to address slavery's role in shaping both Dominican and Haitian societies. A key contribution is the 'Historical Atlas of Slavery,' which aims to provide data on the transatlantic slave trade from the 16th to late 18th centuries, offering insights crucial for understanding the island’s divided development and building a more inclusive national identity.
Group of Monuments at Pattadakal
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The Badami Chalukyas (circa 543–757 CE) revolutionized South and Central Indian temple architecture by synthesizing indigenous Dravida and Nagara styles into the distinctive Vesara style, establishing a lasting architectural legacy that influenced subsequent dynasties. This study reveals how temple construction under Chalukyan monarchs like Pulakeshin II and Vikramaditya I served as both a manifestation of devout faith and a sophisticated political tool for legitimation, territorial integration, and imperial hegemony in early medieval peninsular India. Through analysis of epigraphical evidence, sculptural iconography, trade networks, and economic structures, the research demonstrates that these monumental sanctuaries functioned as institutional anchors, tethering nascent regional states to an overarching Puranic cosmology while facilitating long-term socioeconomic cohesion across diverse ethnic and agrarian communities. The evolution of structural engineering under the Chalukyas also showcased unprecedented mastery over material science, transforming native sandstone into complex spatial geometries that visually articulated divine right and cosmic hierarchy.
Shiretoko
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2025 —
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A three-year survey on the Shiretoko Peninsula, Hokkaido, Japan, revealed that intestinal parasite prevalence in brown bears (Ursus arctos) is influenced by seasonal and host factors. Key findings include higher detection rates of <em>Dibothriocephalus nihonkaiensis</em> in autumn, while <em>Baylisascaris transfuga</em> and <em>Uncinaria sp.</em> showed seasonal variations linked to bear age class and dietary changes. Egg shedding for these parasites often ceased before or during hibernation, suggesting complex interactions between environmental conditions and host biology. The study analyzed 334 fecal samples using centrifugal flotation techniques and fecal DNA analysis, providing insights into parasite dynamics in wild brown bears.
Salonga National Park
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Wild meat is a critical, year-round protein source for rural communities near Salonga National Park, contributing 18% to daily protein needs but failing to meet requirements outside peak fishing and insect seasons. A 12-month study of 457 households in six villages revealed that wild meat—sourced from at least 35 mammal species—was the only product purchased in over half of cases, outpacing domestic meat due to cost disparities. Consumption patterns were influenced by socioeconomic factors, with higher income and education levels correlating with greater reliance on wild meat, while household size and breastfeeding women reduced intake. The research highlights the unsustainable pressure on wildlife in biodiversity hotspots, emphasizing the need for alternative livelihoods and conservation strategies to balance human dietary needs with ecological preservation.
Tugay forests of the Tigrovaya Balka Nature Reserve
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A recent survey of the Tugay forests within the Tigrovaya Balka Nature Reserve, Tajikistan, confirms the presence of <em>Pelecus cultratus</em>, a fish species previously documented in the Syr Darya and Amu Darya river basins. The study, conducted between 2003 and 2018, recorded specimens in floodplain lakes and riverbeds of the lower Vakhsh River, extending its known distribution to include this UNESCO-listed wetland area. While no preserved specimens were collected, the findings suggest that <em>P. cultratus</em> remains widespread across these ecosystems, with potential implications for conservation efforts. The research relies on field observations, reinforcing its ecological significance in Tajikistan’s biodiversity.
Ombilin Coal Mining Heritage of Sawahlunto
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2025 —
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Flood modeling of the Batang Lunto River, a UNESCO-listed cultural heritage site in Sawahlunto, West Sumatra, reveals significant flood risk across 125.70 hectares. Using hydrological and hydrodynamic simulations with HEC-Ras 6.3.1 and ArcGIS 10.3, researchers mapped inundation areas for return periods of 2 to 100 years, showing that flood-prone zones could expand from 14.42% (18.12 Ha) at a 2-year return period to over half the area (50.68%, 63.70 Ha) at a 100-year interval. This study provides critical data for disaster mitigation in a region where flooding threatens heritage assets and geopark tourism destinations, offering actionable insights for urban planning and risk management.
Ombilin Coal Mining Heritage of Sawahlunto
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2025 —
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A qualitative, descriptive study reveals that the Sawahlunto Cultural Affairs Office plays a pivotal role as regulator, dynamisator, and facilitator in managing the UNESCO-listed Ombilin Coal Mining Heritage Site to foster sustainable tourism. The research highlights its efforts in preserving cultural heritage while supporting local economic growth. However, challenges such as the absence of a dedicated management body, budget constraints, limited human resources, and low community ownership persist. The study underscores the critical need for stakeholder collaboration to enhance effective, long-term management, ensuring both cultural preservation and sustainable tourism benefits.
Historic Centre of Macao
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2025 —
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A study on the Historic Centre of Macao reveals that tourists' perceived value at religious heritage sites significantly boosts their donation intentions, both directly and indirectly through emotions like awe and subjective well-being. Using Stimulus-Organism-Response (SOR) theory, researchers analyzed data from 529 visitors to A-Ma Temple, applying Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). The findings highlight that religiosity strengthens the emotional impact on donation behavior, suggesting that enhancing spiritual experiences can foster sustainable conservation efforts. This research provides actionable insights for heritage managers aiming to balance cultural preservation and economic viability.
Monumental Earthworks of Poverty Point
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Indigenous peoples in the Lower Mississippi Valley, between 4000 and 3000 cal BP, responded to significant climatic and environmental disruptions—such as increased rainfall, cooler temperatures, and high-frequency flooding—by gathering at Poverty Point for elaborate rituals. These rituals involved constructing earthworks and deploying bundles of diverse materials alongside unique or intricately crafted artifacts, all aimed at cosmological revitalization. The findings suggest a deep understanding of the interdependence between humans and the cosmos, where rituals were performed to renew the 'web of being' when the world was disordered. This research highlights the moral agency of complex hunter-gatherer societies in navigating climatic adversities and contributes to broader insights into ritual behavior during periods of environmental instability.
Jongmyo Shrine
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A virtual reality (VR) rhythm game prototype, designed to bridge the accessibility gap in learning Jongmyo Jeryeak—a historically significant Korean ceremonial music—shows promise in fostering cultural engagement and understanding among younger generations. By recreating a virtual Jongmyo Shrine environment and incorporating interactive performance on a Pyeongyeong (a traditional percussion instrument), the game synchronizes audio with visual cues, enabling users to experience the full ceremonial context of Heemoon, an opening piece from the Botaepyeong suite. Developed in Unity 3D using the XR Interaction Toolkit, this work-in-progress aims to preserve intangible heritage by making traditional practices more immersive and interactive, addressing challenges in cultural education through innovative technology.
Pergamon and its Multi-Layered Cultural Landscape
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A groundbreaking virtual reconstruction of ancient Pergamon leverages AI, VR, and photorealistic 3D modeling to revive the city's Hellenistic and Roman-era landscape with unprecedented historical accuracy. Using architectural plans from AutoCAD®, detailed 3D models of landmarks like the Temple of Athena and Altar of Zeus were crafted in 3ds Max® and Blender® before being deployed in Unreal Engine® with realistic terrain, lighting, and textures. AI-driven avatars, created with Character Creator® and animated via iClone®, serve as narrative guides, delivering context-sensitive interpretive content during immersive user experiences. This integration of archaeological data, digital media, and conversational AI (via Convai®) transforms cultural heritage interpretation, offering both educational and experiential value. The study demonstrates how emerging technologies can reconstruct not only architectural forms but also the social dynamics of ancient urbanism.
Cultural Landscape of Bali Province: the Subak System as a Manifestation of the Tri Hita Karana Philosophy
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Bali's Subak System, a UNESCO World Heritage Site reflecting the Tri Hita Karana philosophy, faces significant threats from uncontrolled tourism, which disrupts its sacred cultural and natural integrity. This study reveals that while legal frameworks such as Law No. 5 of 1990 (Conservation of Biological Natural Resources) and Law No. 11 of 2010 (Cultural Heritage) provide a foundation for protection, their implementation is hindered by rapid tourism growth. The research employs normative juridical methods to analyze these legal gaps and policy challenges, including Bali's provincial regulations like Governor Regulation No. 97 of 2018 (Single-Use Plastic Waste Limitation). It concludes that stronger enforcement and integration of sustainable tourism strategies are essential to preserve Bali's unique heritage.
Shiretoko
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2025 —
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Researchers have confirmed the first occurrence of permafrost in the Shiretoko mountain range, specifically at Mt. Sashirui in eastern Hokkaido, Japan. Through 5.5-meter borehole temperature measurements near the summit, a wind-swept site covered by alpine dwarf shrubs, the study identified conditions close to the threshold for permafrost formation. The persistence of permafrost here is attributed to thermal insulation provided by bryophyte and lichen cover during summer and efficient heat transfer through frozen shrub branches and thin snow layers in cold spells. This discovery highlights the vulnerability of mountain permafrost to climate change, emphasizing the need for continuous long-term monitoring to track shifts in ground temperatures in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Historic Centre of Mexico City and Xochimilco
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2025 —
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Lake Xochimilco is on the brink of ecological collapse due to urbanization, with alien fish species dominating its low-diversity ecosystem. Despite severe degradation—evidenced by pollution and habitat loss—the study reveals that native and endemic fauna, including the threatened mexclapique fish (Girardinicthys viviparus), persist undetected by traditional surveys. Environmental DNA metabarcoding identified ca. 60% of historically recorded species, highlighting the potential for restoration while underscoring the critical role of wildlife refuges in preventing extinction, as seen with the Critically Endangered axolotl (Ambystoma sp.). The research also uncovered cryptic taxonomic diversity in Lithobates frogs and demonstrated that non-native fish families thrive in polluted conditions, offering insights into urban ecosystem resilience.
Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu
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Peruvian gastronomy has emerged as a significant cultural heritage and tourist attraction, complementing traditional material sites like Machu Picchu to drive tourism in Peru. This study demonstrates that food culture, an immaterial expression of Peruvian identity, not only holds global recognition but also motivates international travel, positioning it as both a heritage asset and an engine for social change. The research employs a mixed-method approach, combining documentary review, data registration, and indirect observation to analyze three key aspects: the evolution of Peruvian gastronomy from local tradition to worldwide acclaim; its status as a cultural heritage; and its role in tourism. Findings highlight its dual capacity to preserve heritage while fostering economic and social transformation.
Gunung Mulu National Park
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Research in Gunung Mulu National Park, Sarawak, reveals a previously undocumented process of cave passage modification driven by microbial nitrification of biogenic ammonia. This study demonstrates that ammonia gas released from bat and swiftlet guano is oxidized on moist cave surfaces, producing aggressive nitric acid solutions that accelerate limestone dissolution. The resulting geomorphological features overwrite original passage morphologies, challenging traditional interpretations of speleogenesis in tropical environments. Geomorphological and geochemical evidence suggests this biogenic overprint is more widespread than previously recognized, with profound implications for understanding post-speleogenetic modification and secondary cave enlargement.
Arab-Norman Palermo and the Cathedral Churches of Cefalú and Monreale
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A significant discovery reveals that Norman Sicily's rulers, particularly King Roger II, employed Roman hard-stone spolia—especially red porphyry—in an extensive and ambitious decorative program during the 12th century. This systematic reuse of classical materials was unprecedented in medieval Europe, serving as a political propaganda tool to assert the king's sovereign power over both church and state. Four notable porphyry tombs, likely housing Norman and Hohenstaufen rulers, stand out as exceptional monuments with relief-carved decorations, though their exact dates remain challenging to determine due to scarce evidence. The study also highlights the rediscovery of medieval hard-stone carving techniques, long thought lost since the fall of the western Roman Empire.
Dazu Rock Carvings
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A key finding from this study is that the mechanical strength of sandstones in Chinese heritage sites, such as grottoes and rock carvings, is strongly influenced by their pore structure, density, and cementation. Research shows that unimodal pore distributions—where pores are more uniformly sized—correlate with greater sandstone strength compared to multimodal distributions. The study analyzed four significant sites: Yungang Grottoes (YG), Tianlongshan Grottoes (TLS), Leshan Giant Buddha (LS), and Dazu Rock Carvings (DZ) using advanced techniques like ICP-OES, XRD, SEM, MIP, petrography, and mechanical testing. Petrographic analysis revealed that grain contact and cementation are critical in determining sandstone stability. Among the evaluated indices, the GVCM index proved particularly reliable for predicting sandstone strength, offering valuable insights for conservation efforts at these culturally significant sites.
Luther Memorials in Eisleben and Wittenberg
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Almost half of the known dedications to the deceased in Wittenberg during Philipp Melanchthon's era featured verse inscriptions, predominantly in Latin, revealing their significant role in 16th-century multimedia commemoration culture. These poems, often blending historical events with topical and ancient literary references, were disseminated through printed materials like funeral sermons or university announcements, as well as on monuments. They served both to honor the deceased and to impart moral lessons to future generations, merging literary and material memorials. The study highlights Melanchthon's influence in promoting sepulchral poetry and underscores the interaction between print and inscription in commemorative practices, providing insights into the social and cultural dynamics of the time.
Archaeological Site of Carthage
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Recent excavations at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Carthage reveal a dynamic transformation of its funerary and urban landscapes. The Phoenician necropolis of Dermech, abandoned by the late 6th century BC due to its sacred status, was reoccupied in the 4th century BC as an artisan quarter, featuring Punic kilns and metallurgical workshops. This shift underscores Carthage's urban expansion and economic growth during its Mediterranean dominance. Meanwhile, the Punic necropolis on Odéon Hill uncovered monumental tombs with secondary burials disrupted by Roman construction, validating historical accounts. The findings shed light on Carthaginian funerary practices, urban development, and interactions in the pre-Roman Mediterranean.
Saloum Delta
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A sustainable solution for rehabilitating saline lands in the Saloum Delta, Senegal, has been demonstrated through the use of phosphogypsum combined with organic matter such as cow dung, groundnut shell, and poultry manure. This innovative approach significantly reduced soil salinity, upgrading abandoned rice fields from extremely saline (electrical conductivity > 2000 μS/cm) to non-saline (< 500 μS/cm). The technique led to impressive rice yields, averaging 6.17 tons per hectare for the variety Sahel 108, with a total estimated production of 357.58 tons across 58 hectares. The study highlights the potential of this method to recover decades-old abandoned lands, emphasizing the need for widespread adoption and capacity-building among local stakeholders.
Anticosti
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Researchers have identified a new flexible crinoid species, <em>Anticosticrinus natiscotecensis</em>, from the Ordovician–Silurian boundary of Anticosti Island (Québec, Canada), a region critical for studying the Late Ordovician mass extinction (LOME). Phylogenetic analysis places this species within the family Anisocrinidae, contributing to understanding crinoid faunal turnover during this pivotal period. The study also employed Bayesian methods to quantify stratigraphic age uncertainty, suggesting a late Hirnantian age, though not definitively resolving it. This discovery provides valuable data for evaluating extinction timing and diversification patterns in flexible crinoids, which became dominant in the Silurian.
Comoé National Park
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A study of watercourses in Comoé National Park, Côte d’Ivoire, reveals significant spatial and seasonal variations in physico-chemical parameters, with the Comoé River showing higher levels of degradation compared to other rivers. Key indicators such as temperature, dissolved oxygen, ammonium, nitrite, phosphate, COD, and BOD5 frequently exceeded threshold values, suggesting environmental stress. The research employed in situ measurements, field kits, and laboratory analyses over an 11-month period (May 2022–March 2023) at six sampling stations, using statistical tests to assess differences.
Baroque Churches of the Philippines
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Physics-based simulations reveal that Baroque masonry churches in Bohol, Philippines, remain structurally intact under Intensity VIII earthquakes but experience progressive collapse at higher intensities (IX and X), mirroring damage observed during the 2013 Bohol earthquake. The study leveraged open-source Blender software with the Bullet Constraints Builder (BCB) add-on to model seismic response with reduced computational demands compared to traditional finite element methods. This approach offers a rapid, data-efficient tool for assessing structural vulnerability and failure mechanisms in heritage masonry, supporting disaster risk reduction and preservation efforts in seismically active regions.
Pasargadae
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Recent scientific analysis of paper squeezes from UNESCO World Heritage Sites Pasargadae and Persepolis has identified new evidence of lazurite as a blue pigment and magnetite as black, alongside confirming previously known red pigments. These findings, derived from microscopic investigations, imaging techniques, and chemical analyses, provide deeper insights into the ancient polychromatic contexts of these sites. The study examined architectural fragments, including an anthropomorphic ear relief from Palace P in Pasargadae and a Hebrew-inscribed stone block from Persepolis' Tachara, revealing the complexity of pigment use in Achaemenid art and architecture.
Brú na Bóinne - Archaeological Ensemble of the Bend of the Boyne
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A new study reveals that feasting at Newgrange, the iconic Neolithic monument within the UNESCO-listed Brú na Bóinne complex, was likely tied to the winter solstice for centuries after its construction. Using isotopic analysis of pig remains, researchers found evidence of rapid weight gain through pannage (foraging) followed by slaughter, suggesting a seasonal pattern around 2600–2450 BC. This indicates that later activities at Newgrange maintained the original monument's solstice-focused significance. Additionally, a unique isotopic signature linked to mast (tree nuts) provides insights into prehistoric pig diets and human-woodland interactions across Europe.
Qhapaq Ñan, Andean Road System
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A GIS investigation of pre-Hispanic roads in the Ocoña and Chorunga Valleys, Peru, reveals that long-established Andean landscape perceptions, trade patterns, and land use influenced Inca territorial expansion. The study found that the Inca state reused pre-Inca trails and sacred sites for state-sanctioned spiritual activities, potentially legitimizing their power and claim to abundant mineral resources in the region. The analysis of roads and associated sites, using data from excavations, pedestrian surveys, and drone imagery, suggests a strategic connection between these valleys and broader Andean history. A notable finding is the huaca Corral Redondo, a rare low-elevation Inca capacocha offering site, which may exemplify this phenomenon.
Routes of Santiago de Compostela in France
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Pilgrimages, whether religious or secular, can evoke profound spiritual experiences akin to awe and transcendence. A study on the Camino de Santiago, a historic pilgrimage route from Southern France to Santiago de Compostela in Spain, reveals that even non-religious individuals ('nones') engage with such journeys for their spiritual significance. Interviews conducted along the route highlight diverse motivations, ranging from secular to deeply religious, underscoring the multifaceted nature of pilgrimage experiences. The research extends this insight by comparing the Camino de Santiago to other secular pilgrimage sites like Walt Disney World and the Vietnam War Memorial, suggesting that these locations also foster a sense of awe comparable to religious feelings. This dual perspective challenges traditional notions of spirituality, proposing that transcendence is not exclusive to religious contexts but can emerge in various cultural and historical settings.
Abu Mena
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2025 —
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Archaeological evidence from eight ampullae unearthed in Scythia reveals sustained Christian pilgrimage activity during the late 6th and early 7th centuries, despite political instability. These small ceramic containers, likely used to transport holy water or oil from Abu Mena (Egypt) and Asia Minor, were found across five urban centers along the Lower Danube limes and Black Sea coast. The discovery underscores the resilience of pilgrimage traditions in Scythia during a turbulent period, challenging assumptions about its decline amid the fall of the Danubian limes.
Alejandro de Humboldt National Park
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2025 —
WHEE070146FAD
Researchers have identified <em>Pinguicula panfetiae</em>, a new species of carnivorous butterwort endemic to eastern Cuba, specifically within the Alejandro de Humboldt National Park. This discovery, previously misidentified as <em>Pinguicula albida</em> or <em>P. jaraguana</em>, is distinguished by its smaller rosettes with obovate leaves, non-involute leaf margins, and unique floral traits, including flowers up to 1–1.3 cm in size and distinct seed morphology (0.6–0.7 mm long, 0.18–0.22 mm wide). The species thrives on serpentine-derived ferritic soils in semi-arid montane shrublands, a habitat characterized by full sun exposure. Using morphological analysis and statistical comparisons with related species, the study confirms its novelty and assesses its conservation status as Critically Endangered (CR) under IUCN criteria, marking the 15th <em>Pinguicula</em> species recorded in Cuba.
Beijing Central Axis: A Building Ensemble Exhibiting the Ideal Order of the Chinese Capital
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2025 —
WHE3F0C0BDE45
A machine learning approach identifies optimal locations for tourism and leisure facilities along Beijing's Central Axis, achieving 83.5% accuracy in predicting suitable sites based on existing POI data. The study reveals that accommodation availability, shopping, and transportation infrastructure are key factors influencing facility placement, with a notable centralization pattern aligned to the urban core. Predictive analysis suggests new developments should prioritize densely populated areas currently lacking such amenities, offering a data-driven strategy to enhance urban planning while reducing subjectivity in decision-making.
Wadi Rum Protected Area
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2025 —
WHE6F4C4F5CEA
A strain of Pseudomonas grandensis, R4-79, isolated from the arid Wadi Rum Protected Area in Jordan, demonstrates significant potential as a biocontrol agent for sustainable agriculture. This desert endophyte, associated with Ifloga spicata, exhibits plant growth-promoting attributes and effectively suppresses key phytopathogens, including Botrytis cinerea, Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato DC3000, and root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne incognita). Genomic analysis revealed a 6.18 Mbp chromosome with gene clusters for siderophores, phenazines, hydrogen cyanide, phytohormones, and multiple secretion systems, indicating its multifunctional role in pathogen protection and plant growth promotion. The study highlights the potential of P. grandensis R4-79 to enhance crop yield under harsh environmental conditions, offering a promising strategy for sustainable agriculture.
Kilimanjaro National Park
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2025 —
WHE7065D84C3A
Invasive non-native plants significantly reduce plant species diversity and density in the lower montane forests of Kilimanjaro National Park, Tanzania. Research found that natural forests exhibit the highest species richness (13.8 ± 1.7) and tree density (774 ± 111 stems/ha), while areas invaded by Black Wattle (<em>Acacia mearnsii</em>), Mexican weeping pine (<em>Pinus patula</em>), or Eucalyptus spp. show marked declines in both metrics, with <em>P. patula</em> sites having the lowest density (12.7 ± 6.9 stems/ha). The study, conducted across 60 plots at four sites, identified 168 plant species but highlighted the negative impact of invasive species on native biodiversity. Sustainable management strategies, including invasive species control and forest enrichment, are recommended to mitigate these effects.
