Understanding climate risks to world cultural heritage: a systematic analysis and assessment framework for the case of Spain

A systematic analysis identifies the Tower of Hercules and four other Spanish UNESCO World Heritage Sites (WCHS) as highly vulnerable to climate risks, including freeze-thaw cycles, thermal stress, hydrodynamic forces, corrosion, and biodegradation. The study, based on historical climate data and impact mechanisms, quantifies these risks across 45 WCHS in Spain, revealing that achieving carbon neutrality (SSP1-2.6 scenario) significantly reduces climate risk. This research provides a framework for assessing climate vulnerabilities in cultural heritage, offering critical insights for targeted conservation strategies.

Hu, H., & Hewitt, R. J. (2024). Understanding climate risks to world cultural heritage: a systematic analysis and assessment framework for the case of Spain. Heritage Science, 12(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40494-024-01299-x