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Our Heritage Is Already Broken: Meditations on a Regenerative Conservation for Cultural and Natural Heritage

Cultural Landscape and Archaeological Remains of the Bamiyan Valley — 2016 — WHE3752A5743E

The Bamiyan Buddhas, colossal 6th–7th century CE statues carved into Afghanistan’s Bamiyan Valley cliff faces, were destroyed by the Taliban regime in 2001 using mortar fire and dynamite. This act of cultural heritage destruction, which occurred just months before the September 11 attacks, sparked international outrage. In response, UNESCO designated the Bamiyan Valley as a World Heritage Site and added it to the 'World Heritage in Danger' list in 2003, recognizing its Outstanding Universal Value. The study reflects on this tragedy through a regenerative conservation lens, emphasizing the acceptance of imperfection and flaw as inherent to heritage preservation, drawing from philosophical meditations on waste and garbage. It underscores the urgent need for global recognition and protection of such invaluable historical treasures.

Overview of VOC emissions and chemistry from PTR-TOF-MS measurements during the SusKat-ABC campaign: high acetaldehyde, isoprene and isocyanic acid in wintertime air of the Kathmandu Valley

Kathmandu Valley — 2016 — WHE7EA472510E

Wintertime air pollution in the Kathmandu Valley, Nepal, is characterized by unusually high concentrations of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), with acetaldehyde (8.8 ppb), methanol (7.4 ppb), and acetone + propanal (4.2 ppb) dominating the chemical profile. The study, conducted during the SusKat-ABC campaign in 2012–2013 using a high-resolution proton transfer reaction time-of-flight mass spectrometer (PTR-TOF-MS), identified 71 VOC species, including 'new' ambient compounds like formamide and acetamide, which can photochemically produce isocyanic acid—a known health hazard. Biomass burning and brick kilns emerged as major sources of toxic VOCs such as benzene and isocyanic acid, while isoprene and oxygenated VOCs significantly contributed to ozone production potential. This research highlights the critical need for mitigating biomass burning activities to reduce harmful emissions in South Asia.

Paestum dietary habits during the Imperial period: archaeological records and stable isotope measurement

Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park with the Archeological Sites of Paestum and Velia, and the Certosa di Padula — 2016 — WHE48A0541ECB

Stable isotope analysis of bone collagen from Roman Paestum reveals significant dietary shifts during the Imperial period, challenging traditional assumptions about local consumption patterns. The study, conducted using Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometry (IRMS) at the IRMS-SUN Laboratory in Naples, found that while archaeological records and historical texts suggested a diet rich in marine resources, isotopic data indicated a more terrestrial-based diet with notable C4 plant consumption, likely cereals or legumes. This discrepancy highlights the importance of integrating multiple analytical approaches to reconstruct ancient diets accurately. The findings expand our understanding of Roman dietary behavior in Paestum, demonstrating how stable isotope analysis can cross-validate historical and archaeological evidence.

Painted plaster and glazed brick fragments from Achaemenid Pasargadae and Persepolis, Iran

Persepolis — 2016 — WHE7450906920

Achaemenid Persian artisans employed a sophisticated range of materials and techniques to create polychromatic finishes for their architecture, as revealed by the analysis of painted plaster and glazed brick fragments from Pasargadae and Persepolis. The study identified up to five layers of paint on Pasargadae plaster, including pigments like Egyptian blue, malachite green, red ocher, and cinnabar red, while Persepolis floor fragments featured lime plaster with hematite-rich paint layers. Glazed bricks from Persepolis were composed of high-silica material similar to faience, decorated with alkaline glazes containing lead antimonate, magnesium-iron, and copper. The research used non-invasive X-ray fluorescence, scanning electron microscopy, and cross-sectional analysis to examine the fragments' layering stratigraphy and composition, enhancing understanding of Achaemenid materials technology and informing their preservation at the Freer Study Collection and original sites.

Paisagem cultural das Missões Jesuíticas Guaranis: o desafio de promover uma leitura patrimonial da paisagem

Jesuit Missions of the Guaranis: San Ignacio Mini, Santa Ana, Nuestra Señora de Loreto and Santa Maria Mayor (Argentina), Ruins of Sao Miguel das Missoes (Brazil) — 2016 — WHE0E6759DD88

A systematic and multi-ethnic approach to understanding the cultural landscape of the Brazilian Jesuit Missions in Rio Grande do Sul has been proposed as a solution to the complex challenges faced by heritage conservation efforts. This study highlights the need for respecting and valuing local cultural references and traditions while aiming for preservation and local development. The research, part of the Project of Valorization of the Cultural Landscape and the National Historic Park of Jesuit Missions of the Guarani, launched in 2014, focuses on articulating local managers and stakeholders to promote social development actions. It seeks to characterize the cultural landscape and create management instruments for the territory, offering a model for balancing heritage conservation with sustainable development.

Palimpsest in the Service of the Cult of the Saints—The False Arch in the Nave’s Vault of the Abbey Church of Saint-Savin-sur-Gartempe

Abbey Church of Saint-Savin sur Gartempe — 2016 — WHEF0C01B0318

A hidden palimpsest, discovered within the false arch of Saint-Savin-sur-Gartempe's nave vault, reveals a previously unknown layer of religious symbolism tied to the cult of saints. This 11th-century architectural feature, initially dismissed as purely decorative, was found to contain inscriptions and imagery that serve a functional purpose in reinforcing the church's spiritual narrative. The study employed multi-disciplinary analysis—including historical documentation, art history, and archival research—to decode these elements, demonstrating how medieval artisans integrated visual storytelling into sacred architecture. This discovery challenges conventional interpretations of Romanesque art, highlighting its role in devotional practice rather than mere ornamentation.

Pandas and People

Sichuan Giant Panda Sanctuaries - Wolong, Mt Siguniang and Jiajin Mountains — 2016 — WHE6B243995AF

A groundbreaking synthesis of two decades of interdisciplinary research reveals complex interactions between the giant panda, a global conservation icon, and local communities within the Sichuan Giant Panda Sanctuaries. The study, conducted across Wolong Nature Reserve and adjacent regions, demonstrates how coupled human and natural systems evolve through socioeconomic activities like farming, forest harvesting, and tourism. By integrating extensive socioeconomic and biophysical data, the research introduces novel methods to understand patterns of system dynamics, contributing significantly to theories on complexity, social norms, and sustainability. Findings from this model coupled system offer actionable insights for natural resource management, with implications extending beyond Wolong to global biodiversity hotspots.

PART FIVE The Intellectuality of Early Medieval Art

Aachen Cathedral — 2016 — WHE02C62B5165

Aachen Cathedral's cupola, the earliest surviving arching vault north of the Alps and the highest until Gothic cathedrals, symbolizes the transformative impact of early medieval stone architecture. This study highlights how monumental structures like Charlemagne’s chapel, alongside palaces and chapels, reflected the resurgent wealth and power of early medieval monarchs, contrasting sharply with the humble wooden or wattle-and-daub dwellings of the time. It explores the cultural significance of these structures, emphasizing their role in political rituals, religious practices, and the accumulation of wealth derived from rural economies. The research also examines the rarity and value of books and images, noting their seductive yet perilous power in a world where idolatry was both forbidden by rival civilizations like Islam and Byzantium and actively destroyed by Frankish warriors and missionaries.

Participatory management of an urban world heritage site

Historic District of Old Québec — 2016 — WHE1B40194D41

A case study of the Historic District of Old Québec reveals that participatory management, even in a long-standing UNESCO World Heritage Site (20 years), faces significant challenges while offering valuable insights for broader application. The research highlights key elements and contextual factors critical to successful community-based heritage initiatives. Unlike prescriptive 'best practices,' this study provides a nuanced example of participatory management, questioning its relevance in less experienced contexts without prior local involvement. It introduces a conceptual framework and methodological approach for studying such cases, emphasizing the importance of context-specific analysis over generalized recommendations.

Participatory Mapping to Disrupt Unjust Urban Trajectories in Lima

Historic Centre of Lima — 2016 — WHE6A01289C7D

Participatory mapping emerged as a powerful tool to challenge unjust urban development trajectories in Lima, Peru, offering a spatially and socially grounded approach for co-producing knowledge that bridges marginalized communities and policymakers. Two action research projects, ReMap Lima and cLIMA sin Riego, demonstrated how community-led mapping—combining advanced technologies with grassroots engagement—can make invisible urban issues visible, foster dialogue among stakeholders, and lead to collectively negotiated actions. By focusing on Barrios Altos (a historic district) and José Carlos Mariátegui (an edge-of-city area), the study revealed distinct pathways for interrogating urban spaces, promoting spatial co-learning that disrupts traditional power dynamics between claimants and the state. This methodology not only addresses immediate planning challenges but also lays the groundwork for just urban futures.

Pasargadae, Mâdar Soleimân and Leilâ: Placing Pasargadae within its Present Rural Context

Pasargadae — 2016 — WHEA867CD38BA

This chapter examines the impact of Sivand Dam's construction on Pasargadae, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the ancient capital founded by Cyrus the Great. It reveals that the dam, built just 17 kilometers from the tomb of Cyrus, became a focal point for activism against its development due to concerns about environmental harm to the site. The study analyzes the performance of activists opposing the dam, as well as government and public responses supporting it. Initial studies for Sivand Dam were conducted in 1970 by the American firm Justin & Courtney, highlighting the long-standing nature of this development project. The chapter provides a nuanced exploration of the tensions between modern infrastructure development and the preservation of historical heritage.

Past and present of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, in artefacts

Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew — 2016 — WHEE63E25977B

A collection of numismatic and philatelic artefacts, including medals, stamps, and commemorative coins, offers a visual narrative of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew's history. Key figures such as Sir Joseph Banks, Sir William Jackson Hooker, and Joseph Dalton Hooker are highlighted through these objects, showcasing their contributions to botany. The study provides detailed descriptions and images of these artefacts, including a Wedgwood medallion featuring Hooker’s portrait and stamps depicting Hooker. By analyzing these items, the paper reconstructs significant moments in Kew's past, offering insights into its botanical legacy and the evolution of its collections.

Past climate changes, population dynamics and the origin of Bison in Europe

Decorated Cave of Pont d’Arc, known as Grotte Chauvet-Pont d’Arc, Ardèche — 2016 — WHE76DBC66485

A paleogenetic analysis of bison remains from the last 50,000 years reveals that climate changes significantly influenced the population dynamics of European bison species. The study identified three distinct populations—two steppe bison (B. priscus) and one wisent (B. bonasus)—that alternately occupied Western Europe, with the modern wisent emerging from a refuge in the southern Caucasus post-Last Glacial Maximum. Ancient DNA analysis of 57 mitogenomes showed severe genetic diversity reduction in the Holocene and suggested that the genetic affiliation between wisent and cattle likely stems from incomplete lineage sorting rather than gene flow. The research also highlights temperate Western Europe as a suitable habitat for wisent reintroduction, supported by evidence from cave paintings dating to ~36,000 years ago.

Patrimónios de Coimbra – Univer(c)idade: património e desenvolvimento?

University of Coimbra – Alta and Sofia — 2016 — WHE2DB34FCB20

The recent classification of the University of Coimbra's Alta and Sofia as a UNESCO World Heritage Site presents both opportunities and challenges for the region's economic development. This study reveals that while the site's primary function remains education, its potential to drive tourism and cultural growth is significant but contingent on balancing preservation with modern recreational demands. Researchers analyze how differing policies and perceptions influence the identification and utilization of these heritage values, highlighting the need for strategic management to ensure sustainable development without compromising the integrity of Coimbra's rich cultural legacy.

Pattern Matching and the Analysis of Damaged Ancient Objects

Archaeological Site of Olympia — 2016 — WHECDA8F26469

Researchers at the Archaeological Site of Olympia have developed two novel computational methods to accurately reconstruct damaged Doric column drums, achieving precision within 0.2% for well-preserved fragments and 1% even for highly fragmentary ones. These techniques—one modifying ICP (Iterative Closest Point) and another using polar coordinates with RANSAC—enable efficient digital reconstruction of displaced architectural elements. By analyzing nearly 100 fallen drums and capitals from the Hera temple, the team digitally reconstructed 80% of the drums and all capitals, offering new insights into the temple's construction history. These methods are adaptable to other fluted column drums and hold potential for broader archaeological applications.

Patterns of behaviour that pose potential drowning risk to hikers at Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park — 2016 — WHECBC21A0378

Hikers at Yosemite National Park frequently enter hazardous risk zones near the Merced River, particularly during hot summer conditions. A study observed 1417 instances over 32 days and found that 81% of observation hours involved hikers in these areas, with higher rates linked to warmer air temperatures and later hike starts, while water levels had a negative association. Males, teenagers, and solo hikers were more likely to venture into dangerous zones. The research highlights the need for targeted safety measures based on behavioral and environmental patterns.

Percepción social y respuesta institucional frente al desastre de Tierradentro, Colombia

National Archeological Park of Tierradentro — 2016 — WHECCBD77A6BE

A severe disaster in Tierradentro, Colombia, in June 1994, resulted from a combination of seismic activity, heavy rainfall, and unstable geophysical conditions, leading to deadly landslides that primarily affected the Indigenous Nasa community. The study reveals that while institutional responses were mobilized, they often failed to align with the social perception of the disaster as experienced by the local community and media. This misalignment highlighted gaps in disaster preparedness and response strategies. The research employed a multidisciplinary approach, integrating ethnography, social cartography, and archival analysis to examine the historical and territorial dimensions of the disaster's impact and recovery.

Performance analysis of 1MW grid connected photovoltaic power plant in Jaipur, India

Jaipur City, Rajasthan — 2016 — WHE09CEF409BB

A performance analysis of the 1 MW grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) power plant in Jaipur, India, revealed that its annual performance ratio consistently increased over three years due to improved grid availability. Monthly performance ratios ranged from 53% to 83%, with values derived using Excel, PV-syst, and System Advisory Model (SAM) showing close agreement. The study also calculated the levelized electricity cost based on power generation data from 2013 to 2015, providing insights into the economic viability of grid-connected solar plants in the region.

Persian Garden, Cultural Sustainability and Environmental Design Case Study Shazdeh Garden

The Persian Garden — 2016 — WHE549EDF8728

Ancient Persian gardens, such as Shazdeh Garden, demonstrate how cultural design can harmonize with nature to improve living conditions and restore barren lands sustainably. These gardens achieve balance by integrating greenery with architectural structures, creating serene yet functional spaces that enhance human well-being while preserving environmental integrity. The study highlights the potential for such designs to inspire modern solutions for harsh environments, blending aesthetic beauty with practical sustainability. By examining traditional Persian garden principles, researchers aim to develop innovative approaches that promote cultural sustainability alongside ecological conservation.

Persian Gardens: Meanings, Symbolism, and Design

The Persian Garden — 2016 — WHE4882F25289

Persian gardens, evolved over centuries within the Persian Empire, are not merely geometric structures but rich repositories of cultural symbolism and architectural meaning. These gardens incorporate design elements such as water, trees, and pavilions, each carrying specific significance tied to societal beliefs and values. The study reveals that Persian garden design embodies principles like hierarchy, symmetry, centrality, rhythm, and harmony, reflecting a sophisticated interplay between geometric structure and irrigation systems. Additionally, the research explores the philosophical underpinnings of these symbols, demonstrating how they serve as a medium for transmitting national identity and cultural heritage to future generations.