World Heritage Research: Search

Publications

Showing 23121 – 23140 of 30345 publications

Calibration of a mathematical model of Marukh Glacier, Western Caucasus

Western Caucasus — 2015 — WHEE61419E4B2

A three-dimensional mathematical model of Marukh Glacier in the Western Caucasus has been developed and calibrated, offering a robust tool for predicting glacier evolution under changing climatic conditions. The model integrates field data from radio-echo-sounding, topographic and gravimetrical measurements, alongside meteorological observations from Klukhorsky Pereval station. Calibration focused on optimizing parameters to minimize deviations between calculated and observed flow velocities and surface mass balance, ensuring high accuracy. This approach provides a foundation for future prognostic calculations of glacier dynamics in the Caucasus region, addressing critical questions about glacial response to climate change.

Canchas de juego de pelota en la región de palenque, chiapas: representación y política

Pre-Hispanic City and National Park of Palenque — 2015 — WHECAEE56B5DE

Research on ballgame courts in the Palenque region reveals a high degree of architectural homogeneity, with consistent court sizes and spacing patterns across 12 sites. These findings suggest that the ballgame served as both a competitive and cohesive social element, reinforcing political structures beyond its traditional cultural significance. The study, conducted by the Proyecto Regional Palenque over 18 years, analyzed settlement patterns, court dimensions, and their relationship to central plazas and palace-like structures, demonstrating an average spacing of 8 km between sites. This uniformity implies a structured regional organization, where the ballgame's political symbolism was integral to social cohesion and competition.

Canine Distemper in Endangered Ethiopian Wolves

Bale Mountains National Park — 2015 — WHED33658DD7B

A severe outbreak of canine distemper virus (CDV) in the Ethiopian wolf (Canis simensis), one of the world's rarest canids, was documented in Bale Mountains National Park (BMNP), Ethiopia, with mortality rates reaching 68% in affected subpopulations. The study, conducted between 2005-2006 and 2010, revealed that CDV outbreaks, occurring shortly after a rabies outbreak, led to the eradication of several wolf packs, exacerbating population recovery challenges. Death rates were significantly higher among subadult wolves (83%-87%) compared to adults (34%-39%), highlighting the dual threat posed by these viral diseases to this critically endangered species. The research underscores the urgent need for targeted conservation strategies to mitigate the combined impact of rabies and CDV on Ethiopian wolf populations.

Canterbury Cathedral: Pilgrims and cathedrals as places of pilgrimage

Canterbury Cathedral, St Augustine's Abbey, and St Martin's Church — 2015 — WHEA17650DA95

Canterbury Cathedral has long been associated with pilgrimage, carrying significant cultural and religious meaning. This study delves into the concept of pilgrimage within cathedral contexts, focusing on Canterbury's enduring experience as a site of spiritual journey. The research highlights how the term 'pilgrimage' is laden with layers of significance in such settings, exploring its implications beyond mere physical travel. By analyzing historical and contemporary practices, the study reveals the multifaceted nature of pilgrimage, encompassing spiritual, social, and architectural dimensions. This approach provides a nuanced understanding of how cathedrals like Canterbury serve as both destinations and symbols of pilgrimage, bridging the gap between personal devotion and collective heritage.

Capacity for Carbon Sequestration and Climate Change Mitigation in Different Ecologically-Distinct Zones of Sri Lanka

Central Highlands of Sri Lanka — 2015 — WHE169838495B

Sri Lanka's ecologically distinct zones (EDZs) exhibit varying carbon sequestration capacities, influenced by climate change trends such as rising temperatures and altered precipitation patterns. Using nine dynamic global vegetation models (DGVMs), researchers estimated net primary productivity (NPP), heterotrophic respiration (Rh), and net biome productivity (NBP) across eight 1°×1° grid cells from 1900 to 2009. While coarse-resolution models showed inconsistent results, finer-resolution DGVMs revealed significant spatial variation in carbon balance parameters. The study highlights the potential impact of climate change on Sri Lanka's land carbon sink capacity and underscores the importance of high-resolution modeling for accurate assessments.

Caracalla and Dacia. Imperial Visit, a Reality or Only Rumour?

Frontiers of the Roman Empire – Dacia — 2015 — WHE94D89929B6

New evidence challenges the long-held belief that Roman Emperor Caracalla visited Dacia in 213, traveling as far north as Porolissum. Analysis of recent inscriptions from across the Roman Empire indicates Caracalla was likely in the Orient post-October 213, after defeating the Alamanns near Raetia, rather than on a northern frontier expedition. While he may have briefly stopped at Drobeta or Tibiscum—where he could have visited Apollo’s temple—logistical constraints and his recorded arrival in Nicomedia by December 17 make a journey to Porolissum implausible. The study also debunks the link between tile-stamps from Legions VII Gemina Felix (Leon) and III Gallica (Porolissum) with Caracalla’s movements, citing no historical precedent for such vexillation replacements during his eastern campaigns.

Caracterización Arqueométrica de Pigmentos Color Negro de Material Cerámico de la Quebrada de Humahuaca, Jujuy, Argentina

Quebrada de Humahuaca — 2015 — WHEFE87690BDF

A comprehensive analysis of black pigments from pottery styles in the Quebrada de Humahuaca, Argentina, reveals that magnetite and carbonaceous materials are primarily responsible for the black coloration in 'black over red' and 'black and white over red' ceramics. In contrast, 'polished black interior' samples contained only graphitized carbon. Notably, no manganese-based compounds were detected, challenging previous assumptions about pigment sources in this region. The study employed advanced techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) to characterize these pigments, contributing new insights into the compositional complexity of ceramic materials from this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Case study: Seismic resistant constructive systems in El Salvador

Joya de Cerén Archaeological Site — 2015 — WHE4A0BF9E83F

A case study highlights the seismic resilience of traditional construction techniques, particularly the improved bahareque system derived from ancient Joya de Cerén methods. This approach demonstrates how vernacular architecture can be adapted to modern seismic standards, offering a sustainable and effective solution for housing in El Salvador. The research evaluates the performance of adobe, bahareque, and reinforced brick masonry (mixto) systems under seismic conditions, emphasizing the potential of reviving historical techniques to enhance structural stability.

Caterpillar seasonality in a central Brazilian cerrado

Cerrado Protected Areas: Chapada dos Veadeiros and Emas National Parks — 2015 — WHE70743BF49E

Research reveals that caterpillar abundance in the Cerrado Protected Areas of Brazil peaks during the dry season, particularly from April to July. This pattern is likely due to reduced stress from predators and parasitoids during the early dry months, while low larval density at the onset of the rainy season may result from accumulated water stress, chemical defenses in new leaves, delayed adult emergence, or increased predation. The study, conducted between 1991 and 1995 in central Brazil, examined nine host plant species across 10,800 censuses, identifying larvae in 15% of cases and documenting 247 lepidopteran species. Multivoltine life cycles, with varying pupal duration, were also observed, suggesting complex seasonal adaptations in caterpillar populations.

Catholic churches and ministry in Malbork in the years 1525–1772

Castle of the Teutonic Order in Malbork — 2015 — WHED33026A86B

In Malbork, the parish of St. John the Evangelist remained predominantly Catholic from 1525 to 1772, despite brief interruptions, as revealed by post-visit protocols and vital records dating back to 1700. These records indicate a robust religious activity with approximately 200 baptisms annually and 50–150 weddings per year, including interfaith marriages involving Lutherans in the latter half of the eighteenth century. Additional Catholic churches, such as those dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary and St. Lawrence, along with the hospital chapel of the Holy Spirit, contributed to pastoral care during this period. The Jesuits played a significant role in ministry from 1618 onward, highlighting their influence on religious practices in Malbork.

Cave bear hunting in Hohle Fels Cave in the Ach Valley of the Swabian Jura

Caves and Ice Age Art in the Swabian Jura — 2015 — WHEF0ACD61E06

Archaeological evidence from Hohle Fels Cave in the Swabian Jura reveals that cave bears were hunted by humans during the Gravettian period, approximately 30,000 years ago. A significant discovery includes a bear vertebra embedded with a flint projectile, indicating targeted hunting practices. Additionally, cut and impact marks on other cave bear bones provide detailed evidence of butchering processes, similar to those documented for other game species. The study also identifies thick layers of burned bone, suggesting that cave bears were utilized both as a food source and for fuel. These findings offer unprecedented insights into the subsistence strategies and technological capabilities of early human populations in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Cenozoic evolution of the Pamir and Tien Shan mountains reflected in syntectonic deposits of the Tajik Basin

Tajik National Park (Mountains of the Pamirs) — 2015 — WHE481019205B

The Cenozoic evolution of the Pamir and Tien Shan mountains is deciphered through the syntectonic deposits of the Tajik Basin, revealing a dynamic history shaped by tectonic compression. These deposits, primarily proximal braided river sediments, indicate extensive fluvial plains extending from the Northern Pamir and Southern Tien Shan, with a notable shift in sediment sources over time. While Oligocene–Pliocene deposits predominantly originated from the northern Pamir ranges, upper Miocene–Recent sediments near the active margin of the Tien Shan reflect erosion from this range. The study highlights an initial phase of low-energy sedimentation in the SW Tien Shan since the Oligocene, followed by increased erosion and coarse fluvial deposition along the northern margin of the Tajik Basin from the middle Miocene onward. This research approach leverages sedimentary records to reconstruct the tectonic and erosional history of these mountain systems.

Cento anni di paesaggio italiano

Medici Villas and Gardens in Tuscany — 2015 — WHEE3A841C7C3

A reintroduction of Professor Augusto A. Boggiano's essay examines the cultural and regulatory dimensions of Italian landscape transformations over the past century, with a focus on Tuscany. The work highlights the significance of legal frameworks and territorial planning tools in shaping landscape values, drawing from discussions at the 2004 International Congress 'Il Paesaggio italiano degli ultimi cento anni' held at Villa Cafaggiolo, a Medici villa. Boggiano's analysis provides insights into how Italian regulations and governance strategies influence landscape evolution, offering a critical perspective on the interplay between cultural heritage and territorial management in Tuscany.

Central European Connections of Six Manuscript Organ Tablature Books of the Reformation Era from the Region of Zips (Szepes, Spiš)

Levoča, Spišský Hrad and the Associated Cultural Monuments — 2015 — WHE483CD5D8B8

Sixteen-century organ tablature books from the Levoča region reveal significant connections between Protestant church music and Renaissance compositions, offering invaluable insights into Central European musical practices. These manuscripts, preserved as part of the Leutschau/Lőcse/Levoča Music Collection, utilize Ammerbach’s notation—a system that facilitated the intabulation of vocal and instrumental works—and are linked to notable organists like Johann Plotz, Ján Šimbracký, and Samuel Marckfelner. The study highlights a repertoire blending contemporary Protestant music with works by Catholic Renaissance masters, including Jacob Regnart and Matthäus von Löwenstern. Crucially, these tablatures serve as the sole surviving sources for reconstructing incomplete polyphonic compositions from the 16th and 17th centuries, underscoring their historical significance in musical scholarship.

Challenges in the Preservation of Riga’s Architectural Cultural Heritage / Iššūkiai, Su Kuriais Susiduria Rygos Architektūrinio Kultūros Paveldo Apsauga

Historic Centre of Riga — 2015 — WHE3621D744FE

Riga's architectural heritage, a UNESCO World Heritage site, faces significant challenges in balancing cultural value with economic potential. The study reveals that while historical buildings are integral to Latvia's cultural landscape and often listed as protected heritage, practical preservation mechanisms—such as ownership, maintenance, and renewal opportunities—remain underevaluated. Market dynamics and urban planning factors, including UNESCO designation, interact with these challenges. The research highlights the need for a comprehensive assessment of how cultural value influences market value and urban development in Riga's historic center. It identifies key obstacles to preserving architectural heritage while suggesting potential pathways for sustainable conservation.

Changes in glass consumption in Pergamon (Turkey) from Hellenistic to late Byzantine and Islamic times

Pergamon and its Multi-Layered Cultural Landscape — 2015 — WHE6C6ACC32F9

A major shift in glass supply and economic fragmentation is evident in Pergamon, Turkey, from the mid-to-late Byzantine and Islamic periods. Analysis of nearly 100 glass samples spanning 1500 years reveals that two previously little-known boron- and alumina-rich compositional groups emerged around the first half of the 1st millennium AD, dominating local glass compositions by the mid-Byzantine period. This indicates a transition from imported Roman glass to regionally produced alternatives, signaling a fragmentation of the economy into more localized units. Plant-ash glass, which replaced mineral natron glass in the Levant during the 9th century AD, played only a minor role in Pergamon's glass consumption. The study employed compositional data analysis to track these changes without detecting any link between the introduction of glass-blowing techniques and alterations in glass group compositions.

Changes in Meadow Vegetation Cover in Yosemite National Park (California) Based on Three Decades of Landsat Image Analysis

Yosemite National Park — 2015 — WHEDBA85C6E94

A three-decade analysis of Landsat imagery reveals significant changes in meadow vegetation cover within Yosemite National Park, with wet years showing lower normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) values compared to dry years. This suggests higher surface water levels are detectable during wet periods. Additionally, a trend of increasing green plant cover in consistently dry years indicates encroachment by woody vegetation, particularly at sub-alpine elevations, since the early 1990s. The study utilized high-resolution satellite data to track NDVI changes across all meadow units, providing insights into climate change impacts on Sierra Nevada ecosystems.

Changes in the distribution of quantitative features of guest houses in the Medina of Marrakesh

Medina of Marrakesh — 2015 — WHEBFA4F9FB0A

A significant increase and redistribution of guest houses within the Medina of Marrakesh have been observed since the late 20th century, primarily driven by the conversion of historical residential buildings to accommodate tourism. This study reveals that between 1999 and 2008, guest houses became more concentrated in certain quarters, particularly those with higher average accommodation capacity, challenging earlier assumptions about their even distribution. Using cartographical methods, researchers mapped the localization and capacity changes over selected years, providing a quantitative analysis of how tourism development has reshaped the urban fabric of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Chapter 4. Geomorphological dynamics and the occupancy of the Letoon shrine (Xanthos plain, Turkey) during the last 5000 years

Xanthos-Letoon — 2015 — WHEA52CAA7FBA

Research at the Letoon shrine, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Xanthos-Letoon in southwestern Anatolia, reveals significant geomorphological dynamics that have influenced human occupancy over the past 5000 years. The study demonstrates how changes in the deltaic plain of the Eşen Çayı River (anciently known as Xanthus) have shaped the landscape and affected the site's use by ancient civilizations. By analyzing sediment layers, archaeological remains, and environmental data, scientists reconstructed the evolution of the region, showing periods of stability and upheaval that correlated with human settlement patterns. This work provides a deeper understanding of how natural processes interact with cultural landscapes, offering insights into the resilience and adaptability of past societies in response to environmental changes.

Characteristics of PM10 and PM2.5 at Mount Wutai Buddhism Scenic Spot, Shanxi, China

Mount Wutai — 2015 — WHEE1F671A352

Airborne particulate pollution at Mount Wutai, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Shanxi, China, exceeds WHO air quality guidelines by 1.01–1.14 times for PM10 and 1.75–2.70 times for PM2.5 during peak tourist season. Particle size analysis revealed distinct distributions across four sampling locations: Wu Ye Temple (core incense burners) showed fine particulates ranging from 0 to 3.30 μm, while other sites exhibited larger ranges up to 5.90 μm. Particulates in Wu Ye Temple were primarily spherical, rod-like, and irregular soot aggregates for PM10, with spherical dust particles for PM2.5. Manjusri Temple and Yang Bai Lin Village predominantly featured irregular soil mineral matter (PM10) and amorphous ultrafine soot (PM2.5). This study highlights the significant impact of human activities on air quality in this culturally significant landscape.