Archaeological Area of Agrigento
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An advanced geospatial database, ARPAS, demonstrates significant potential for enhancing the study, preservation, and risk assessment of cultural landscapes. By integrating heterogeneous datasets—including archaeological, architectural, and environmental data—ARPAS improves information completeness and supports predictive analyses for heritage conservation in southern Sicily. The system addresses methodological challenges related to data heterogeneity and limitations of existing tools, offering a centralized platform for real-time analytical processing and collaborative research. Pilot deployment across four provinces (Agrigento, Catania, Ragusa, Siracusa) highlights its ability to manage temporal stratification and support interdisciplinary landscape research, marking a step forward in digital innovation for cultural heritage management.
Ibiza, Biodiversity and Culture
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British youth engage in binge drinking, drug use, and other risk behaviors during their holidays in Ibiza primarily to escape the constraints of work and family life in the UK and as part of constructing their identities. These behaviors are also aggressively endorsed by various aspects of Ibiza's social context. The study, based on ethnographic research including participant observation and 17 focus groups with 97 young people aged 17 to 31, provides a deeper understanding of why these behaviors occur, moving beyond survey data to explore the underlying motivations and social dynamics.
Cliff of Bandiagara (Land of the Dogons)
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A 21-year longitudinal study of children in the Dogon villages of Mali's Bandiagara Escarpment reveals that weight gain during early childhood, while associated with modest increases in adult systolic blood pressure and obesity prevalence, offers significant benefits in terms of adult height. The research, involving over 1,300 participants, found that a one-standard-deviation increase in childhood weight was linked to a 3-4 cm taller stature in adulthood for both males and females, outweighing the risks of hypertension and obesity. This suggests that in undernourished populations, careful weight management during early years could enhance long-term health outcomes without significantly increasing cardiovascular risks.
Takht-e Soleyman
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A comparative analysis of the Anahita temples at Bishapur and Takht-e Soleyman reveals their pivotal role in sustaining Iran's ritual architectural traditions. These sacred sites, dedicated to the goddess of water (Anahita), were strategically located near water sources, symbolizing a deep spiritual connection with nature. The study highlights differences in architectural designs, religious functions, symbolic meanings, and construction materials between the two temples, emphasizing their significance in preserving cultural identity across historical periods. By integrating library-based research with field observations, this work underscores how these temples reflect Iran's enduring architectural and religious heritage.
Brú na Bóinne - Archaeological Ensemble of the Bend of the Boyne
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Ritual landscapes, particularly those involving megalithic and Neolithic monument complexes, function as multisensory, performative spaces that encode cosmological beliefs and social relationships. This study reveals how prehistoric communities constructed sacred geographies through carefully choreographed spatial organization, leveraging topography, celestial phenomena, and environmental contexts. Using a combination of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) analysis, viewshed modeling, and phenomenological surveys, researchers demonstrate that these landscapes served as theaters of memory, where communities negotiated identity, power, and cosmological understanding through embodied practices. Comparative case studies from Stonehenge, Avebury, the Orkney Islands, and Brú na Bóinne highlight the interconnections between monument morphology and social memory, offering new insights into how prehistoric societies ritualized their environments.
Yin Xu
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Late Shang mortuary practices at Yin Xu were found to serve as 'ritual re-representation,' a form of bricolage that disassembled and reassembled tokens from ideal ritual ceremonies to re-enact the social existence of the dead. This approach, which emphasizes the spatial arrangement of burial contents, challenges traditional interpretations by highlighting how personhood and social relationships were framed through the treatment of the corpse and its surroundings. Artefacts placed in distinct spatial divisions expressed themes related to mortality, ceremonial conduct, moral transformation, feasting, music, dance, military authority, and mobility, while retainers were positioned based on their proximity to the tomb owner during life. Victims were placed outside the outer coffins, marking a boundary between the owner’s domain and those whose subjectivities were ritually denied. This symbolic structure embodied Late Shang notions of elite personhood, which prevailed from the Late Neolithic to the Late Bronze Age in northern China, playing a significant role in social stratification through a 'sacred' mode.
Pasargadae
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A comparative function-space analysis of Iranian columned halls from Hasanlu to Pasargadae (1300–540 BC) reveals that functional needs were the primary determinant of spatial organization. Ritual halls, such as those at Hasanlu II, feature strong central axes, controlled access, and hierarchical circulation, while multifunctional halls like Nush-i Jan and Godin exhibit flexible, open spaces with multiple access points and lack rigid hierarchies. Residential halls, exemplified by Baba Jan II, prioritize daily functionality through asymmetry, decentralized columns, and integrated service spaces. The study identifies distinct patterns in movement (guided vs. free), spatial relationships (self-contained vs. integrated), and scale/height (monumental in ceremonial contexts).
Dholavira: a Harappan City
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Ancient Indian civilizations, particularly those along the Indus-Saraswati and Gangetic river systems, developed sophisticated water management practices that were central to their settlement patterns, subsistence strategies, and social organization. Archaeological evidence from sites like Dholavira, Mohenjo-daro, and Lothal reveals advanced techniques for water harvesting, storage, and distribution, indicating a proactive response to hydrological uncertainty. The study highlights the relationship between climatic shifts—such as the weakening of the monsoon and the desiccation of the Saraswati river—and the transformation or decline of these settlements. By analyzing excavation data, the research argues that indigenous water-management knowledge remains relevant for modern environmental planning in water-stressed regions.
Lower Valley of the Omo
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2025 —
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Violence linked to large-scale commercial agriculture, particularly road deaths, is often overlooked. In Ethiopia’s Lower Omo Valley, the development of sugar cane plantations has led to numerous fatalities and injuries among agro-pastoralists, triggering retaliatory killings primarily targeting vehicle users. These acts have been interpreted as resistance to land alienation. However, this study refines that understanding by examining the selective legal prosecution of homicides in the region. It reveals how competing social orders—those of the agro-pastoralists and the state—interact, highlighting a process where the state monopolizes violence by determining 'which violences matter.' The research underscores the official silence around road deaths and the state's violent response to revenge killings as indicative of broader state-making dynamics.
Upper Middle Rhine Valley
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A long-term study of the Rock Bunting (Emberiza cia) in Germany's Upper Middle Rhine Valley reveals unexpected genetic connectivity among its subpopulations, despite a continuous decline. Contrary to expectations, analysis of 122 samples—using mitochondrial DNA (cytochrome b gene) and nuclear microsatellite markers—showed no geographic clustering, indicating ongoing gene flow between populations along the Middle Rhine, Nahe, Main, Moselle, and Ahr rivers. This challenges assumptions about isolation in fragmented habitats, such as rocky vineyards, where the species is increasingly threatened.
Elephanta Caves
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Rock-cut temples of India, including those at Elephanta Caves, represent a pinnacle of ancient and medieval architectural innovation, blending technical mastery with profound religious expression. These structures, carved from living rock, document centuries of artistic evolution, patronage, and cross-cultural exchange, serving not only as devotional spaces but also as platforms for political messaging and technological advancement. A study published in the <em>Journal of Asiatic Society for Social Science Research</em> highlights the significance of major Deccan complexes such as Ajanta, Ellora, Badami, and Elephanta, contrasting monolithic designs like Ellora’s Kailasa with modular cave architectures such as Ajanta’s chaityas. The research underscores the temples' role in ritual, social functions, and artistic experimentation while addressing contemporary conservation challenges posed by environmental stress, urbanization, and tourism pressure. Strategies for safeguarding these fragile monuments are also outlined.
Redwood National and State Parks
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Monitoring of rocky intertidal ecosystems in Redwood National and State Parks from 2021 to 2022 revealed dynamic changes in populations of key species, including sessile invertebrates, algae, ochre sea stars (Pisaster ochraceus), surfgrass (Phyllospadix spp.), and sea palm (Postelsia palmaeformis). The study, part of the Multi-Agency Rocky Intertidal Network (MARINe) and funded by the National Park Service, employed permanent plots and transects to track annual trends. While populations fluctuated, the data contribute to long-term biodiversity assessments, with broader analyses available in 5-year trend reports. The study also incorporated optional MARINe protocols, though some measurements may be discontinued in future years.
Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, Northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island
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2025 —
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A certification system for eco-tour guides on Amami-Oshima Island, Japan, shows potential to promote sustainable ecotourism but requires stronger enforcement and broader stakeholder involvement. The study found that while certified guides contribute significantly to tourism quality and frequency, the current voluntary approach lacks penalties for misconduct and fails to address unqualified operators effectively. Introducing legal frameworks and engaging both guides and local residents in regulatory discussions, alongside third-party accreditation, could enhance the system's effectiveness. This research highlights the need for a balanced approach that aligns with regional autonomy while ensuring environmental protection.
Lumbini, the Birthplace of the Lord Buddha
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Residents of Lumbini, Nepal, prioritize economic benefits over environmental concerns when supporting religious tourism, revealing a complex trade-off mindset. A household survey conducted between September 2022 and January 2023 found that social, cultural, and economic advantages significantly influence local attitudes toward tourism, even in the face of ecological drawbacks. This nuanced perspective challenges unidimensional assessments and strengthens the explanatory power of Social Exchange Theory. The study suggests that disaggregating positive and negative impacts provides deeper insights into resident perceptions, offering actionable guidance for policymakers to balance tourism development with sustainability while fostering community engagement.
Kakatiya Rudreshwara (Ramappa) Temple, Telangana
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2025 —
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Social media significantly influences tourist decision-making, with user-generated content, influencer promotions, and official tourism campaigns playing pivotal roles. A study on Telangana's tourist destinations—including the UNESCO-listed Kakatiya Rudreshwara (Ramappa) Temple—revealed that these digital elements shape preferences for accommodations, transportation, dining, and attractions. Using quantitative methods like surveys and statistical analysis (multiple regression, ANOVA), researchers tested three hypotheses to assess social media's impact on domestic and international tourists. The findings underscore the importance of strategic social media use in destination branding and visitor engagement, offering actionable insights for tourism marketers and policymakers.
Dacian Fortresses of the Orastie Mountains
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Recent archaeological discoveries in the Orăștie Mountains have uncovered three previously unknown Roman temporary camps near Sarmizegetusa Regia, the ancient Dacian capital. These findings significantly expand our understanding of the region's complex landscape, which includes Dacian fortresses and Roman fortifications. Using advanced technologies and topographical surveys, researchers identified these camps, contributing to a broader map of military encampments linked to pivotal confrontations in European antiquity. The study highlights the dynamic interplay between Dacian and Roman forces during this critical period.
Old Walled City of Shibam
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A study on the Old Walled City of Shibam, Hadhramaut, Yemen, reveals a robust design system for interior spaces that can preserve the city's heritage identity. The research analyzes vocabulary and elements of traditional Shibami dwellings, which are at risk due to structural issues like cracks and collapses in mud buildings. By documenting these features, the study provides a framework to revitalize and sustain the cultural significance of Shibam, recognized by UNESCO as an endangered World Heritage Site since 2015. The approach combines analytical methods with a focus on heritage preservation, offering insights that could guide conservation efforts while maintaining the city's historical and human heritage value.
Santiniketan
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Rural tourism emerges as a powerful strategy for socio-economic development and environmental sustainability, particularly in remote or underdeveloped regions. This study demonstrates its potential to address rural challenges such as poverty, migration, and livelihood diversification by analyzing the impact of rural tourism on tribal villages near Santiniketan, West Bengal. The research highlights how tourism can preserve cultural heritage while improving infrastructure, income generation, and quality of life for marginalized communities like the Santal tribe. By examining socio-economic conditions and future prospects in Ballavpur Danga, the study underscores rural tourism's role in fostering sustainable development and stabilizing populations. It provides a model for integrating tourism with heritage conservation in backward districts.
S<U>G</U>ang Gwaay
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A critical tension emerges between Indigenous beliefs and global conservation priorities at S G ang Gwaay, a UNESCO World Heritage site on Haida Gwaii. The Haida community's refusal to engage in invasive preservation—preferring the natural return of the site's totem poles and structures to the earth—clashes with standard heritage conservation practices. This conflict highlights a fundamental challenge within the World Heritage program: balancing the interests of rights-holding communities, which may not align with site longevity, against the urgent need for preservation in the face of accelerated degradation due to climate change. The study examines this dilemma through the lens of S G ang Gwaay's management history and argues that climate change will force a compromise, if one is reached at all.
Historic Centre of the City of Salzburg
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Salzburg's historic city center faces chronic traffic congestion that hinders mobility and sustainability. The proposed S-LINK project aims to address this by extending the local railway network underground through the city, offering a seamless connection to existing public transport. This innovative approach must navigate unique challenges posed by Salzburg's mountainous terrain, the Salzach River, and its densely built-up, heritage-rich old town. The project is subject to rigorous environmental impact assessments (EIA) due to its significant cultural and architectural implications, requiring compliance with multiple regulatory frameworks including railway law, water law, nature conservation, and monument protection. The first section of the S-LINK, spanning 843 meters from Salzburg's main train station to Mirabellplatz, includes a 628-meter double-track tunnel and a new station, all built on challenging ground conditions characterized by thick gravel layers over fine-sand and silt sediments with high water content. The study emphasizes the technical and logistical complexities of integrating modern railway infrastructure within a historic urban landscape while mitigating impacts on noise, vibration, groundwater, and air quality for residents.
Group of Monuments at Hampi
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Temple architecture in Hampi, India, adheres to a sacred and consistent geometric design system rooted in the Āyādi–Ṣaḍvarga measurement framework. This study reveals that proportions and spatial arrangements—applied to pillars, garbhagriha (shrine rooms), and towers—were not only functional but also deeply symbolic, encoding spiritual significance. Through geometric mapping and alignment analysis of multiple Vijayanagara-era temples, researchers identified recurring patterns that underscore the region's architectural coherence. The findings suggest a deliberate design system that shaped both sacred space and aesthetic expression, blending ritual symbolism with structural precision.
Studenica Monastery
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Research at Studenica Monastery reveals that spiritual resilience—rooted in sacred networks of architecture, art, and religious practices—serves as a dynamic mechanism for sustaining cultural landscapes. The study demonstrates how these elements, coupled with ecological stewardship, form a socio-ecological system that enhances biodiversity while mitigating land-use conflicts. By integrating historical mapping, GIS analysis, and multidisciplinary data synthesis, the findings highlight the overlap between sacred sites and protected ecological zones, offering replicable strategies for UNESCO sites globally. This approach reframes heritage as an adaptive process, aligning with SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).
Churches and Convents of Goa
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Archaeological research in Old Goa has uncovered fragments of the urn that once held the relics of Saint Queen Ketevan, along with those of two Augustinian friars. These discoveries, made in 2004 and 2006, provide rare physical evidence of a significant historical artifact lost after the convent's decline in the 19th century. The study contextualizes these findings within the broader cultural heritage of Old Goa, highlighting their importance for understanding the architectural and religious history of the region. By analyzing the remnants of the urn and its ornamentation, researchers have shed light on the fate of Queen Ketevan’s relics, which were venerated in the Augustinian Convent of Our Lady of Grace during the Portuguese colonial era.
Pythagoreion and Heraion of Samos
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A significant discovery of an ancient bronze tripod leg, previously unpublished and found in the Pushkin Museum's special depot in Moscow, sheds new light on the artistry and craftsmanship of archaic Greece. This rare, well-preserved artifact, dating to around 500 BCE, was unearthed near the Rhoikos Altar in Samos' Heraion and features intricate engravings of animals and mythical creatures. Its unique combination of solid-cast legs with engraved designs sets it apart from known examples. The study also uncovered a previously unknown drawing of this piece in Berlin's Antikensammlung archives, providing further context. Stylistic comparisons suggest its origin could be from a West Asian or Ionian workshop, possibly Samian or Milesian, and hint at its possible use as either an offering or sacred vessel.
Arab-Norman Palermo and the Cathedral Churches of Cefalú and Monreale
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San Giovanni dei Lebbrosi, a 12th-century church in Palermo, Italy, exemplifies the architectural fusion of Norman and Arab influences during the Norman conquest. Originally attached to a leprosarium founded by Robert Guiscard and Roger I de Hauteville in 1071, the structure features austere, massive solidity and transenna windows, reflecting strong Arabic stylistic elements. Although scarce documentation complicates precise dating, historical records suggest its completion well after Palermo's conquest, with a leprosarium added by Roger II in 1119 to honor his half-brother Geoffrey, who died from leprosy. Over time, the church and hospital were managed by various religious orders, including the Teutonic knights. The study highlights the cultural synthesis of Norman-Arab architecture while emphasizing the historical significance of the site's association with leprosy care.
Pythagoreion and Heraion of Samos
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2025 —
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Sanctuaries, such as the Pythagoreion and Heraion of Samos, serve as critical lenses for understanding the interplay between materiality and mentality in ancient societies. This study highlights how archaeological research on sanctuaries—focusing on their architectural elements, cult objects, and ritual remains—can be linked to immaterial aspects like rituals, social interactions, piety, and emotions. By integrating methods from social anthropology, religious studies, and cognitive science, the research reveals deeper insights into the symbolic significance of these sites, emphasizing the role of senses such as sound and smell in shaping religious experiences.
Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve
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A stark discrepancy exists in the management of bark beetle outbreaks within the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve, driven by differing criteria and treatments despite shared federal legislation. While Michoacán reports a high incidence rate of 41 outbreaks per km²—triggered even by a single infested tree—Estado de México's stricter threshold (three or more trees) results in just 1.5 outbreaks per km². This study, employing qualitative analysis through 21 semi-structured interviews, reveals that the differences stem from local administrative and technical procedures, exposing potential legal inadequacies. The findings underscore the need for unified, conservation-focused strategies to address bark beetle management, rather than relying solely on sanitary logging, which may be influenced by non-conservation interests.
Bisotun
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Western Iran emerged as a pivotal region during the Sassanid Empire, characterized by its strategic significance and architectural grandeur. The presence of monumental structures such as Bisotun, Taq-e-Bostan, and Qasr-e-Shirin underscores the empire's focus on this area, driven by favorable climate and fertile lands. These sites, including palaces, caravanserais, rock carvings, and bridges—particularly those commissioned under Khosrow Parviz—highlight the Sassanids' ambition and power. The study identifies key buildings like Taq-e-Shirin, Farhad-e-Tarash Wall, and Bisotun Bridge, analyzing their functions and the empire's motivations for development in this region. Employing a library-based, descriptive-analytical approach, the research addresses two central questions: the purpose behind each structure's construction and the reasons for Sassanid attention to western Iran. This work offers insights into the empire's architectural achievements and regional strategies.
Al-Ahsa Oasis, an Evolving Cultural Landscape
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A significant decline in palm tree cover, critical for agroecosystem stability in the arid Al-Ahsa Oasis, was quantified using multi-temporal satellite data (1990–2020). The study found a 14.24% reduction in vegetation fraction, with mean values dropping from 0.79 to 0.37, alongside substantial urban expansion (up to 0.807%). Spectral Mixture Analysis (SMA) and Principal Component Analysis (PCA) revealed strong correlations between urban sprawl and palm tree loss, threatening the oasis's agricultural productivity. This research underscores the need for strategic land management to mitigate environmental impacts in rapidly urbanizing arid landscapes.
Cathedral, Alcázar and Archivo de Indias in Seville
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A study on the Alcázar of Seville’s Almohad tower identifies strategic approaches to Scan-to-BIM workflows tailored for Heritage Building Information Modeling (HBIM), addressing gaps in existing literature. It highlights how documentation strategies vary based on intended HBIM model purposes, integrating standards derived from epistemological frameworks. The research demonstrates that achieving specific Levels of Detail (LOD) depends not only on technical workflows but also on the purpose-driven selection of techniques, offering practical insights for architectural heritage preservation.
Strasbourg, Grande-Île and Neustadt
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The Palais des Fêtes de Strasbourg, a historic landmark classified since 2007, stands as an architectural emblem of the Neustadt district, blending neo-Gothic, neo-Renaissance, and Art Nouveau styles. Constructed in 1903 by architects Joseph Müller and Richard Kuder, its design features include a polygonal corner tower, scrolled gables, and intricate windows, balconies, and concert halls that reflect the city's vibrant cultural heritage. This study highlights the Palais's role as a gathering place for artistic and festive events throughout the 20th century, offering insights into its historical significance and architectural innovation.
Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks
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The 'Himalaya Kumbh' festivals, notably the Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra in Uttarakhand and the Naropa Festival in Ladakh, are determined by celestial calculations involving Jupiter, the Sun, and the Moon. These calculations are believed to amplify Earth's electromagnetic fields, adding scientific significance to their spiritual importance. The Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra is a 12-year pilgrimage honoring Goddess Nanda Devi, where devotees gather for spiritual cleansing by bathing in sacred rivers, aiming for liberation from the cycle of rebirth. This study explores the intersection of scientific and religious significance, rooted in cultural traditions and celestial events.
Alejandro de Humboldt National Park
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Researchers documented the presence of <em>Scytodes fusca</em>, a spider species, across multiple Caribbean islands and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Alejandro de Humboldt National Park. The study recorded specimens from Cuba, Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Saint Martin, Saba, Saint Eustatius, Dominica, Martinique, Saint Lucia, Barbados, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, expanding its known distribution. Collections were made in diverse habitats, such as national parks, forests, and caves, using field surveys conducted by the CarBio team between 2011 and 2013. The findings contribute to the understanding of this species' ecological range and potential role in Caribbean biodiversity.
Cocos Island National Park
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A long-term monitoring study from 2021 to 2024 at Cocos Island National Park revealed that seamounts, particularly the West Cocos and Gemelas seamounts, serve as critical aggregation sites for threatened pelagic species such as hammerhead sharks, thresher sharks, and silky sharks. The research found significantly higher abundance and diversity of these species near the seamount peaks compared to areas 10 nautical miles away, highlighting the localized biological importance of these underwater features. Hammerhead shark populations were particularly sensitive to environmental factors like water temperature, thermocline depth, and oxygen levels. This study provides a baseline for assessing the effectiveness of the expanded Cocos Island National Park and supports the establishment of a regional seamount monitoring initiative through the MigraMar network, aiming to protect these vulnerable species in the Eastern Tropical Pacific.
Macquarie Island
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Land-based surveys at Macquarie Island reveal significant inter-annual variation in the diversity and abundance of non-breeding seabirds visiting inshore waters, with notable increases in breeding petrel populations following invasive species eradication. The study, comparing data from 2017–2018 and 2022–2023 against a baseline of 2002–2003, documented 41 out of 43 seabird species observed during the baseline period. Nocturnal spotlight surveys also uncovered the first mainland colonies of Common Diving-petrels on Macquarie Island and provided circumstantial evidence for storm-petrel recolonization. While less reliable for detecting changes in penguin abundance or smaller seabirds like prions, diving-petrels, and storm-petrels, these surveys offer valuable insights for marine spatial planning and regional environmental trend monitoring, complementing established on-island studies.
Jiuzhaigou Valley Scenic and Historic Interest Area
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2025 —
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Researchers have uncovered a novel link between the seasonal coloration of adventitious roots in Salicaceous species and environmental conditions, revealing their potential as bioindicators for wetland ecosystems. The study found that these roots, prominent in Jiuzhaigou Valley's tufa wetlands, transition from red or pink hues in summer to reddish-brown, maroon, or gray shades during other seasons due to the oxidation of proanthocyanidins influenced by temperature and light. This dynamic color change reflects seasonal climate fluctuations, offering a new biomarker for assessing environmental impacts. The roots also exhibit specialized adaptations, such as well-developed aerenchyma and floating habits, which enhance oxygen uptake in aquatic habitats. The findings provide insights into ecosystem management in karst areas.
Lower Valley of the Awash
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Sediment transport in Ethiopian river basins, particularly the Abbay and Awash, exceeds safe thresholds for drinking water, aquatic protection, and irrigation, posing significant challenges to land and water resource management. The study reveals that erosion hotspots—such as North Gojjam, Beshilo, Jemma subbasins (Abbey Basin), and Kessemi, Nejaso Gera, Kebena (Awash Basin)—experience exceptionally high sediment yields (200–233 t/ha/year in Abbay; 115.76–47.47 million tons/year in Awash). In contrast, the Rift Valley Lakes Basin shows lower but still concerning levels (1.9–13.69 million tons/year). This research combines spatial analysis using QGIS with stakeholder interviews to identify erosion-prone areas and gaps in monitoring infrastructure, providing critical data for policy interventions, restoration efforts, and targeted land management strategies.
Huanglong Scenic and Historic Interest Area
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A novel depositional model for travertine formation reveals how slope gradients and hydrodynamic conditions shape the growth of continental carbonate deposits. Research at Huanglong, China, demonstrates that steep slopes induce water jumps and jagged fluctuations in calcium carbonate concentrations, leading to distinct lamination structures characterized by alternating dense calcite and sparse calcite–microbial assemblages. The interplay between topography, hydrodynamics, and microbial activity regulates travertine aggradation and progradation, influencing the curvature of arc structures. This study integrates sedimentological analysis, hydrodynamic modeling, and regional hydrochemical variability to elucidate morphological evolution in slope-controlled travertine systems, offering insights applicable to other continental carbonate depositional areas.
Historic City of Ayutthaya
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Researchers have established a relationship between the natural periods and height of Thai masonry stupas, providing an approximate formula to estimate their seismic response. This pioneering study, conducted on 20 UNESCO-listed stupas in Ayutthaya Historical Park, combines image-based 3D modeling using UAVs and Structure From Motion (SFM) with ambient vibration tests to assess their dynamic properties. The findings reveal that these ancient structures, while vulnerable to seismic hazards due to their deteriorating materials, exhibit predictable vibrational behavior based on their height. Finite element models were created to simulate time-history analyses, identifying critical stress points and offering insights into the structural weaknesses of these fragile monuments. This approach bridges traditional field surveys with advanced computational modeling, advancing the understanding of seismic risk for similar heritage sites in high-seismicity zones.
Talamanca Range-La Amistad Reserves / La Amistad National Park
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A flat interface at 40–60 km depth beneath the Talamanca Range, identified through seismic receiver function analysis, reveals the stagnation of the Nazca plate since approximately 8 million years ago. This geological feature likely blocked melt upwelling, explaining the cessation of arc volcanism in the region while coinciding with the later uplift of the Talamanca Range due to subduction of the Cocos Ridge. The study employed a refined Dip Direction Searching method on teleseismic waveforms from 17 broadband stations, imaging a northeast-dipping Moho interface of the Cocos slab that may have undergone tearing, providing critical insights into the dynamic processes governing subduction zone volcanism and tectonics.
Minaret and Archaeological Remains of Jam
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A comparative seismic performance assessment of three medieval Turkic brick minarets—the Kalyan Minaret, the Jam Minar, and the Sivas Great Mosque Minaret—reveals that their structural behavior under earthquake loads varies significantly based on material properties, geometry, and construction techniques. The study, utilizing Finite Element Method (FEM) analysis and Time History Analysis with 1999 Kocaeli Earthquake data, found that the Kalyan Minaret, with its thick conical shaft, exhibited superior seismic resilience due to reduced displacements and stress levels. In contrast, the taller and slender Jam Minar showed greater stress concentrations in upper sections, correlating with its observed partial collapse, while the Sivas Great Mosque Minaret displayed high tensile and compressive stresses at critical junctures like the pedestal and transition zone. These findings underscore that medieval minaret designs not only reflected artistic and symbolic intentions but also incorporated engineering considerations to enhance earthquake resistance and stability under lateral loads.
San Marino Historic Centre and Mount Titano
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A 3D numerical model of Palazzo Pubblico, a UNESCO-listed historic building in San Marino, reveals critical insights into its seismic resilience. This model, developed using single-station asynchronous ambient vibration measurements and a comprehensive 3D laser scanner survey (3D-LSS), assesses the fundamental resonance frequencies to evaluate its dynamic response under seismic conditions. The study highlights the importance of retrofitting measures for this strategic building, which serves as the seat of Parliament and a focal point during natural disasters. This model provides a foundation for future research on retrofit options and resilience-based evaluations, ensuring the preservation of San Marino's cultural heritage in seismically active regions.
Selimiye Mosque and its Social Complex
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A transnational dimension emerges in the formation of national memory surrounding the Selimiye Mosque, revealing its contested role as a symbolic site during the dissolution of the Ottoman Empire. The study analyzes commemorative practices through newspaper reports from Greece, Turkey, and Bulgaria, alongside international media, to demonstrate how the monument's heritage has been strategically framed across borders. This research highlights the complex interplay between architectural heritage and nation-building, particularly in Edirne, where multiple states vied for influence. By focusing on the reception of commemorations, it uncovers how transnational narratives shaped local remembrance of the city's liberation.
West Lake Cultural Landscape of Hangzhou
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Revolutionary tourism landscapes, such as those found in Hangzhou's West Lake Cultural Landscape, exhibit a higher symbolic density and stronger ideological framing compared to general cultural tourism sites. This study reveals how signs—including monuments, relics, slogans, and commemorative plaques—function as iconic, indexical, or symbolic elements, shaping visitors' perceptions of authenticity and collective memory. By analyzing English-language reviews and photographs from Trip.com at five revolutionary sites, researchers applied Peircean semiotics to link online tourist interpretation with spatial contexts. The findings offer insights for designing heritage sites that balance ideological representation with intercultural accessibility.
Simien National Park
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2025 —
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A severe decline in the population of the walia ibex, endemic to Ethiopia's Simien Mountains and a national symbol, has been documented between 2015 and 2024. The population dropped from 865 individuals in 2015 to just 306 in 2024, with poaching identified as the primary cause by over 70% of interviewed stakeholders, exacerbated by regional instability during the COVID-19 crisis and the 2021–2022 war. Researchers recommend recategorizing the species from 'Vulnerable' to 'Critically Endangered' on the IUCN Red List due to its rapid population loss and limited range, aiming to galvanize urgent conservation efforts. A proposed action plan includes engaging local communities as ambassadors for protection and establishing a database of individually recognized ibexes to better track population dynamics.
Archaeological Area of Agrigento
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2025 —
WHE66D4B3CE12
Research demonstrates the potential of shape memory alloys (SMAs), particularly Nitinol, for reversible restoration of ancient monuments, addressing key challenges in structural conservation. The study characterizes the thermomechanical behavior of SMAs under varying conditions to develop functional devices for restoring monumental elements at Agrigento's Valle dei Templi site. By leveraging the superelastic properties and shape memory effects of Nitinol, the research aims to create reversible, replicable solutions that preserve architectural integrity while adapting to environmental factors. This approach offers a novel methodology for anastylosis, aligning with principles of structural conservation.
Valongo Wharf Archaeological Site
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2025 —
WHE888E597C17
International legal mechanisms and sites of memory can effectively transform societal identities post-gross human rights violations, fostering inclusivity and alterity over fear. This study demonstrates that integrating transitional justice—such as international trials and institutionalized memory sites—into legal and cultural frameworks prevents historical erasure while recognizing victims' dignity. The Valongo Wharf case illustrates how symbolic and legal acknowledgment of atrocities promotes reconciliation, offering a blueprint for just and inclusive futures. The research employs interdisciplinary analysis from legal studies, historiography, and international relations to highlight the potential of memory work in mitigating violence's legacy.
Historic Centre of Salvador de Bahia
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2025 —
WHE2F57A786B8
A groundbreaking discovery reveals the 1831 LPM, a pivotal legal instrument for marine land demarcation in Brazil's Gamboa de Baixo area, within Salvador da Bahia's Historic Centre (CHS). This study highlights the dual threats of real estate speculation and high-end nautical tourism development to the site's integrity, while also exploring its contested heritage status. The research employs a multifaceted approach, combining fieldwork, bibliographical reviews, secondary sources, legislation, and topographies to analyze historical, legal, and technical contexts. By proposing a 'retrofit' strategy, the study aims to mitigate risks that undermine the site's protection, offering a model for safeguarding UNESCO World Heritage Sites facing similar challenges.
Rabat, Modern Capital and Historic City: a Shared Heritage
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2025 —
WHEC7D1517071
UNESCO's inscription of Rabat as a 'shared heritage' site reframes French colonial architecture as a symbol of respect and modernist influence, downplaying the power dynamics of settler colonialism. The study reveals how preservation narratives strategically connect European zone urban planning to Moroccan national identity, while obscuring the role of white supremacy in structuring the built environment. By analyzing inscription materials, the research demonstrates how colonial histories are selectively reinterpreted to align with World Heritage criteria, effectively silencing explicit racial hierarchies that underpinned French colonial authority.
M'Zab Valley
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2025 —
WHE7A74A0DBF2
Sheikh Abdelaziz bin Mohammed Al-Hashemi Al-Sharif (1898–1938) emerges as a pivotal figure in southeastern Algeria, wielding profound influence across religious, economic, and political spheres during the early 20th century. As leader of the Qadiriyya Sufi order in the Oued Souf region, he became a cornerstone of local resistance against French colonial policies, bridging spiritual networks with reformist movements and national struggles. His strategic role extended across multiple regions, including Laghouat, M'zab Valley, Ouargla, Biskra, and Touggourt, cementing his significance in both intellectual and political landscapes. The study dissects his educational trajectory, alliances with reformist currents, and interactions with colonial authorities, while also analyzing the 1938 Colonial Education Decree and the 'Second Amiche Revolt,' offering a nuanced understanding of his multifaceted impact on Algerian history.
