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Replication for Chauvet Cave

Decorated Cave of Pont d’Arc, known as Grotte Chauvet-Pont d’Arc, Ardèche — 2016 — WHE1C2F4572E3

Chauvet Cave, discovered in 1994 and later designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014, holds some of the earliest known cave art, predating any previously recognized examples. The cave's wall paintings and engravings, which were initially celebrated as representing the 'Dawn of art,' were closed to the public in 1994 to protect them from chemical and microbial damage. In April 2015, replicas of the most striking imagery were opened at a purpose-built site, Caverne du Pont d'Arc, allowing for the preservation and study of the original cave while providing access to its artistic treasures.

Report on Previous and Plan of Future Geodynamic Research in the Historical Centre of Old City of Dubrovnik

Old City of Dubrovnik — 2016 — WHE787780BA91

Dubrovnik is located in a highly seismic region, with its historical center experiencing significant deformation due to tectonic movements. A study analyzing geodetic measurements from the 1980s and 1990s revealed critical deformations, particularly following the 1995-1996 earthquake sequence that included over 3000 tremors. The research highlights the urgent need for expanded interdisciplinary geodynamic monitoring, including precise horizontal, GNSS, and gravimetric measurements, to better understand the seismic risks posed by the Adriatic micro-plate's movements. This comprehensive approach aims to inform future research and reconstruction efforts in the vulnerable historical center.

Representations of Priests in Palmyra: Methodological Considerations on the Meaning of the Representation of Priesthood in the Funerary Sculpture from Roman Period Palmyra

Site of Palmyra — 2016 — WHEBCDEB60EC3

Palmyra's funerary sculptures, unique in their portrayal of individuals outside Rome, reveal that depictions of priests—comprising 18% of male representations—primarily signify status rather than profession. Analyzing 289 priestly figures across various forms (loculus reliefs, sarcophagi lids/boxes), this study argues that priesthood in Palmyrene art reflects social standing within family constellations, offering a novel methodological framework for interpreting funerary representations. The research leverages the Palmyra Portrait Project's corpus to challenge conventional views on priestly imagery, providing insights into Roman-period Palmyra's religious and social structures.

Reproductive biology of the Sapayoa (Sapayoa aenigma), the “Old World suboscine” of the New World

Darien National Park — 2016 — WHEE89A87B780

Researchers uncovered significant insights into the reproductive biology of the enigmatic Sapayoa (Sapayoa aenigma), a rare bird species found in the Chocó rainforests from Panama to Ecuador. The study documented 16 nests, providing the first detailed description of active nest dynamics and family group behaviors during nesting, including cooperative breeding—a behavior previously unrecorded for this species. Notably, the researchers observed unusual provisioning behaviors, such as mounting between same-sex individuals and between immature male helpers and females, accompanied by a distinct solicitation display. The findings also extended the known Sapayoa breeding period by several months and described the plumage of immature birds along with their vocalizations. Phylogenetic analysis further highlighted the species' unique position, bridging Old World suboscines (Eurylaimides) and New World Tyranni, offering new perspectives on its evolutionary history.

Requalification of the river park: eco-houses in Elche

Palmeral of Elche — 2016 — WHE379132F6EA

A novel approach to urban planning and bioclimatic architecture was demonstrated through the requalification of Elche's river park, integrating eco-houses with advanced cooling systems. The study introduced a vertical rotating panel system using large-format ceramic tiles to address energy inefficiencies caused by westward-facing glazing in residential buildings. By leveraging the chimney effect and vegetal masses for natural airflow and cooling, the research optimized energy consumption through simulations using Design Builder software. This model not only enhanced the relationship between urban spaces and the river Vinalopò but also proposed a sustainable building typology that could revitalize existing river parks while minimizing environmental impact.

Research and photographing of medieval monuments under the auspices of the National Museum in Belgrade to 1941

Medieval Monuments in Kosovo — 2016 — WHEE693CBE862

A comprehensive study of medieval monuments in Kosovo, conducted under the auspices of the National Museum in Belgrade from 1881 to 1941, revealed significant advancements in the documentation and preservation of Serbian medieval heritage. The research, led by Vladimir R. Petković, introduced a systematic approach to fieldwork and academic study, resulting in over 7,500 photographs on glass plates—a invaluable resource for studying now-illegible or destroyed data. This effort laid the groundwork for critical scholarly approaches to Serbian medieval art, architecture, and wall paintings, while also initiating preservation efforts such as protective roofs for Rudenica and Gradac Monastery. The study's findings were published in the journal Starinar and the Serbian Monuments series, supported by the Mihajlo Pupin Foundation, which significantly contributed to the field.

Research Methodology in the Built Environment

Old Town of Ghadamès — 2016 — WHE1DBAC0BE04

Traditional desert architecture in Ghadamès, Libya, demonstrates superior energy efficiency compared to contemporary air-conditioned buildings. A mixed-methodology approach combining surveys, interviews, observational techniques, architectural modeling, computer simulation (using EnergyPlus), and physical measurements revealed that traditional buildings leverage natural ventilation and compact urban morphologies to minimize energy consumption. Field surveys from 2013–2014 involving 100 residents highlighted sociocultural perceptions of thermal comfort, which, when integrated with objective data, informed architectural modeling and computer simulations. These findings show strong agreement between simulated and actual environmental performance, providing a conceptual framework for sustainable housing design in hot climates.

Reseña

Jesuit Missions of the Chiquitos — 2016 — WHEDE63E679EC

Robert H. Jackson's study reveals that the Jesuit missions of Paraguay and Chiquitos, despite their geographical separation, shared demographic patterns and cultural resilience. Both regions' indigenous populations, prior to contact with Jesuits, practiced agriculture supplemented by hunting and gathering. Upon joining the missions, they experienced improved nutrition due to intensified agricultural activities and livestock farming, while maintaining their social structures. Jackson's comparative analysis highlights similarities and differences in population dynamics between these missions and other Spanish colonial frontier zones, using a combination of historical records, demographic data, and ethnographic observations. The study also examines the devastating impact of smallpox on mission populations and post-1768 demographic shifts following the expulsion of Jesuits. Supported by extensive documentation and visual aids, this work provides a nuanced understanding of the long-term effects of missionary activities on indigenous communities in Spanish South America.

Residents’ recreational and social use of and perspectives on a World Heritage Site: Temple of Heaven, Beijing, China

Temple of Heaven: an Imperial Sacrificial Altar in Beijing — 2016 — WHEA3D85AB0EF

Local residents' recreational and social engagement with the Temple of Heaven World Heritage Site in Beijing reveals a nuanced relationship often overlooked in heritage management. While residents are typically seen as service providers or impacted stakeholders, this study highlights their active role as users of heritage resources. Findings indicate diverse use patterns, motivations, and perceptions among residents, which contrast with those of tourists. The research underscores the importance of integrating local perspectives into planning and management strategies to ensure sustainable and inclusive use of shared heritage sites.

Response of riparian plant communities to distance from surface water in the Okavango Delta, Botswana

Okavango Delta — 2016 — WHE1632D6BC28

Riparian plant communities in the Okavango Delta exhibit significant changes in composition and distribution based on their distance from surface water, with vegetation parameters like tree height, basal area, canopy cover, and diversity increasing as distance decreases. This suggests that riparian species can serve as indicators of long-term hydrologic conditions in the Delta. The study analyzed seven sites using 20 m × 10 m belted plots at incremental distances (0–50 m) from riverbanks, measuring key vegetation metrics and employing statistical analyses to correlate distance with plant community characteristics.

Responses of two sympatric species of peccaries ( Tayassu pecari and Pecari tajacu ) to hunting in Calakmul, Mexico

Ancient Maya City and Protected Tropical Forests of Calakmul, Campeche — 2016 — WHEBA1B5AF6BA

Hunting significantly reduces group size, alters group composition, disrupts daily activity patterns, and decreases the relative abundance of both white-lipped peccaries (Tayassu pecari) and collared peccaries (Pecari tajacu), according to a study conducted in Calakmul, Mexico. Researchers compared these effects between Calakmul Biosphere Reserve (no hunting) and Nuevo Becal (hunting site) using camera-traps and direct observations from 2014–2015. Findings suggest that proactive management—such as protecting key resources like water, enforcing hunting controls, and monitoring populations—could mitigate these impacts and ensure the survival of both species in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Responsible tourism and poverty: the porters of the Inca Trail

Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu — 2016 — WHEF9889FBB6E

Tourism growth around Machu Picchu has emerged as a significant economic driver for Cusco, yet poverty persists, particularly in rural mountainous areas. While revenue generation is critical, the study highlights that limitations in access to basic services and infrastructure pose greater barriers to social inclusion than financial circumstances alone. The research focuses on porters along the Inca Trail, examining how responsible tourism strategies could address these systemic challenges. By analyzing economic, social, and infrastructural factors, the study underscores the need for integrated approaches to poverty alleviation that go beyond revenue generation.

Restoration and conversion to re-use of historic buildings incorporating increased energy efficiency: A case study - the Haybarn complex, Hilandar Monastery, Mount Athos

Mount Athos — 2016 — WHE23266D3C0A

Historic buildings can be restored to enhance energy efficiency and reusability without compromising their authenticity, as demonstrated by the Haybarn Complex at Hilandar Monastery on Mount Athos. This UNESCO-listed site, renowned for its cultural and natural significance, showcases a successful methodology for integrating modern energy standards into traditional structures. The study highlights that energy refurbishment can be achieved while adhering to conservation principles, ensuring both functional reuse—such as occasional stays—and significant energy savings. The findings provide practical recommendations for balancing heritage preservation with contemporary needs, offering a model for similar restoration projects worldwide.

Restos de Cangrejo Rojo (Gecarcinus lateralis) y Cangrejo Azul (Cardisoma guanhumi), en el Contexto Arqueológico Teotihuacano de Teopancazco

Pre-Hispanic City of Teotihuacan — 2016 — WHE9290DB4973

A rare discovery of crab remains, specifically from the red crab (Gecarcinus lateralis) and blue crab (Cardisoma guanhumi), in the archaeological context of Teopancazco at the Pre-Hispanic City of Teotihuacan reveals a previously undocumented cultural relationship between ancient central Mexican societies and coastal inhabitants. This finding, derived from excavations led by Dr. Linda R. Manzanilla, indicates that these crabs were part of the region's biodiversity and likely played roles in trade, rituals, or diet during the late Tlamimilolpa to Xolalpan stages (300-600 AD). The presence of fish bones, a sea urchin, and crab chelae fragments underscores the significance of coastal wildlife in Teotihuacan's socio-economic landscape, challenging previous assumptions about its limited interaction with marine resources.

Results of an Integrated Helicopter ZTEM-Gravity-Magnetic system test survey over the Vredefort Dome Structure, South Africa

Vredefort Dome — 2016 — WHEC502174D68

A groundbreaking integration of helicopter-borne geophysical technologies successfully mapped the subsurface structure of the Vredefort Dome, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Earth's largest preserved impact craters. The 2016 test survey combined ZTEM™ (Z-Axis Tipper Electromagnetics), aeromagnetic, and airborne gravity measurements over 650 km² using nine flight lines. This approach demonstrated the feasibility of helicopter-based gravimetry while leveraging the superior depth penetration of ZTEM and aeromagnetics for regional geophysical applications. The results highlight the potential of this multi-method system to advance subsurface exploration in complex geological settings, offering new insights into impact structures and their underlying features.

Results of five years of Pottery Analysis in the Temple of Millions of Years of Thutmosis III in Western Thebes (2011–2015)

Ancient Thebes with its Necropolis — 2016 — WHE0C37B3D160

A cluster of tombs from approximately the 11th Dynasty, located to the north of the Temple of Millions of Years of Thutmosis III in Western Thebes, provides significant insights into ceramic traditions during the late Middle Kingdom and Second Intermediate Period. This study presents a detailed analysis of pottery finds from these tombs, predating the temple's construction, alongside selected New Kingdom pottery types, such as those from foundation deposits. Conducted over five years (2011–2015), the research employs systematic ceramic analysis to reconstruct burial practices and material culture transitions in Ancient Thebes. The findings contribute to understanding the temporal and cultural context of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering a rare glimpse into pottery production and use during these pivotal periods.

Results of Long-Term (2006-2016) Avian Influenza Surveillance in Wild Birds of Uvs Nuur Lake

Uvs Nuur Basin — 2016 — WHE7DEC1EB2C7

Long-term avian influenza surveillance at Lake Uvs Nuur, a key Northern Eurasian site, reveals its critical role as a reservoir for the preservation and evolution of influenza A virus in wild bird populations. The study, spanning 2006-2016, analyzed highly pathogenic H5N1 circulation and molecular epidemiology using phylogenetic analysis (MEGA 5.2 software) to construct genetic distance matrices via the Kimura two-parameter method. Findings highlight the biogeocoenose's significance for viral dynamics, emphasizing the need for continued ecological and virological monitoring to assess epidemic and pandemic potential of novel strains.

Retention of Atmospheric Particles by Local Plant Leaves in the Mount Wutai Scenic Area, China

Mount Wutai — 2016 — WHEA28AFEAF2E

Broad-leaved plants, particularly Populus davidiana (Po. davidiana), Rosa hugonis Hemsl. (R. hugonis), and Betula platyphylla Suk. (B. platyphylla), are highly effective in retaining atmospheric particles in the Mount Wutai scenic area, significantly contributing to air purification. The study found that these plants can retain up to 38.60 ± 18.32 mg/cm² of suspended particles before rain, with a substantial reduction observed post-rainfall (0.65 ± 0.23 to 3.50 ± 1.83 mg/cm²). The research analyzed eight plant species, assessing their particle retention capabilities through metrics such as weight, light-shaded area, and horizontal density of particles on leaves. While broad-leaved plants demonstrated superior performance, needle-leaved species like Pinus tabuliformis Carrière (Pi. tabuliformis) were found to be less effective for air purification in this context.

Retour sur la fondation de l’Abbaye du Mont-Saint-Michel et le rôle du duc Richard Ier de Normandie

Mont-Saint-Michel and its Bay — 2016 — WHE253BB6D0A6

A reevaluation of the foundation of Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey challenges traditional narratives, asserting that Duke Richard I of Normandy's role in 965 was not merely a historical oversight but a strategic political move. Unlike previous interpretations suggesting minimal Norman interest before the 11th century or the presence of earlier Breton Benedictines, this study argues that Richard deliberately replaced existing clerics with Benedictines to secure alliances with key political figures: Emperor Otto I, King Lothair, and Count Thibault of Blois. The research relies on critical analysis of historical sources, demonstrating that while Richard's initial involvement was politically motivated, his subsequent neglect led to the abbey's instability for a generation. This finding reshapes our understanding of Norman influence in the region during the 10th century.

Revealing metallic ink in Herculaneum papyri

Archaeological Areas of Pompei, Herculaneum and Torre Annunziata — 2016 — WHEBA649F432D

A groundbreaking analysis of Herculaneum papyri reveals that metallic ink, specifically containing lead, was used centuries earlier than previously believed. This discovery challenges long-held assumptions about ancient writing materials and provides new insights into the manufacturing and use of papyri in Greco-Roman societies. Researchers employed advanced imaging techniques to detect metallic concentrations within the papyrus fragments, offering crucial data for optimizing future computed tomography (CT) scans on unrolled Herculaneum scrolls. The findings also suggest the possible existence of ruled lines on the papyrus texture, further enriching our understanding of ancient writing practices.