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The contested nature of heritage and the dilemmas of building cultural citizenship: the case of Italy

Historic Centre of Naples — 2015 — WHE5625E9F102

Cultural heritage, when mobilized without critical examination of its conceptual limits and internal differences, risks becoming exclusionary. This study highlights the contested nature of heritage and public memory, particularly in disaster-stricken cities like L’Aquila and Naples. It argues that strategic essentialism is necessary to effectively counter undesirable reconstruction programs or resist threats of speculation and evictions in historic centers. The research draws on theoretical frameworks to expose how disparate understandings of heritage challenge the grandiloquent posturing of public intellectuals who view architectural patrimony as a cornerstone for national cultural citizenship.

The continental record of Marine Isotope Stage 11 (Middle Pleistocene) on the Iberian Peninsula characterized by herpetofaunal assemblages

Archaeological Site of Atapuerca — 2015 — WHE008EDDDE2A

A new analysis of herpetofaunal assemblages from three key Acheulean sites on the Iberian Peninsula—Gran Dolina (Atapuerca), Áridos-1 (Madrid), and Ambrona (Soria)—reveals that Marine Isotope Stage 11 (MIS 11) experienced warmer and wetter conditions than today, with mean annual temperatures ranging from +0.3 to +2.7 °C and precipitation from +74.4 to +311.7 mm. The study suggests a progressive decline in temperature and rainfall toward the end of MIS 11, while also confirming the persistence of woodland habitats during interglacial and interstadial periods. Researchers applied mutual climatic range and habitat weighting methods to these assemblages, leveraging the ecological data of extant amphibians and reptiles to reconstruct past environmental conditions with unprecedented precision.

The Cults of Uruk and Babylon: The Temple Ritual Texts as Evidence for Hellenistic Cult Practice

Babylon — 2015 — WHE7582437E51

Temple ritual texts from ancient Uruk and Babylon reveal that public cults remained significant in Hellenistic Mesopotamia, at least until the first century B.C. These texts, analyzed for their reliability as historical sources, provide detailed accounts of festivals, rituals, ceremonies, and offerings during this period. The study includes previously unpublished text fragments, offering new insights into Mesopotamian religious practices. The research demonstrates the active engagement of Mesopotamians in matters of religion and cult, highlighting the enduring importance of these practices despite Hellenistic influences.

The cultural and economic significance of Hampi festival

Group of Monuments at Hampi — 2015 — WHEEB7F0DFEEA

Hampi festival, revived by the Government of Karnataka and held at Hampioffers substantial untapped cultural and economic potential. This festival, a grand spectacle featuring dance, music, fireworks, and processions, recreates the opulence of the Vijayanagara Empire while attracting national and international visitors. Focus group discussions with stakeholders revealed opportunities for improvement, highlighting its significance as both a cultural extravaganza and an economic driver. The study emphasizes leveraging such large-scale festivals to maximize cultural heritage preservation and economic benefits.

The Cultural Politics of Progenic Auschwitz Tattoos: 157622, A-15510, 4559, …

Auschwitz Birkenau German Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp (1940-1945) — 2015 — WHE062DCA427F

Progenic Auschwitz tattoos, where descendants of Holocaust survivors bear their ancestors' camp numbers, represent a distinct form of trauma tattoo that reshapes intergenerational memory. This practice, analyzed through semiotic and affective lenses, reveals how postmemory reconfigures the original sign's meaning, making visible the enduring impact of the Holocaust across generations. The study highlights shifting social norms around public remembrance, demonstrating how progenic tattoos serve as both a pedagogical tool and an affective marker of historical trauma.

The Cultural Tourism Management under Context of World Heritage Sites: Stakeholders’ Opinions between Luang Prabang Communities, Laos and Muang-kao Communities, Sukhothai,Thailand

Town of Luang Prabang — 2015 — WHE81B687DB27

A comparative study of stakeholder perspectives on cultural tourism management in UNESCO World Heritage Sites reveals three key groups shaping policy and promotion: government agencies, entrepreneurs, and the general public. In Luang Prabang, Laos, and Muang-kao, Thailand, stakeholders emphasize preservation under the 'Live World Heritage Town' concept while advocating for broader public participation. Government bodies like the Heritage House (Laos) and Tourism Authority of Thailand oversee heritage management, while entrepreneurs drive tourism services and training. The public supports government-led efforts but insists on active involvement in heritage conservation, reflecting differing yet aligned priorities between these UNESCO-protected sites established in 1995 (Luang Prabang) and 1991 (Sukhothai). This qualitative research highlights the balance between governance, economic engagement, and community-driven preservation in sustaining cultural tourism.

The D-Day Landing on Gold Beach : 6 June 1944

Beaches of the D-Day Landings, Normandy, 1944 — 2015 — WHEF047BFDB24

Contrary to historical accounts, the D-Day landing on Gold Beach (6 June 1944) was not a straightforward operation. While armor support and pre-landing bombing were intended to weaken German defenses, the bombing largely missed its targets, and many landing craft failed due to harsh sea conditions. The success of the Gold Beach landing instead relied on the resilience of assault units and the adaptability of follow-up forces, which secured the British Army's right flank in Normandy. This study challenges the narrative by analyzing primary sources from The National Archives and the Imperial War Museum, revealing the critical role of flexibility and determination in overcoming logistical and tactical obstacles during one of history's largest amphibious invasions.

The Darts of Dawn: The Tlahuizcalpantecuhtli Venus Complex in the Iconography of Mesoamerica and the American Southwest

Archaeological Zone of Paquimé, Casas Grandes — 2015 — WHEC890A622EB

A striking parallel emerges between the symbolic roles of Venus as the Morning Star in Mesoamerica and the American Southwest, particularly in relation to warfare and cosmology. The study reveals that while these regions share a complex Venus iconography, it likely originated from Postclassic period interactions rather than enduring shared cosmologies. Tracing the dissemination of this symbolism—evident by AD 900 in West Mexico, AD 1200 in Northwest Mexico (e.g., Paquimé), and AD 1300 in the American Southwest—the research suggests that cultural exchange during the Aztatlán tradition’s expansion influenced its spread. Comparisons between Mesoamerica’s Tlahuizcalpantecuhtli, a skeletal deity linked to Quetzalcoatl, and the Hopi Morning Star deity Sotuqnangu highlight historically related attributes. The study posits that this ritual-symbolic complex, tied to warfare and fertility, was disseminated through expanding networks rather than ancient continuity.

The Deformation and Conservation of Pietradura on “Naulakha Pavilion” and “Shishma?al” in The Fort of Lahore

Fort and Shalamar Gardens in Lahore — 2015 — WHE5B3541B793

Mughal Pietradura, a sophisticated marble inlay technique using precious and semi-precious stones, reached its zenith during the reigns of Akbar, Jahangir, and Shah Jahan (16th–17th centuries), with the Naulakha Pavilion in Lahore representing its most refined and indigenous manifestation. This study examines the deformation patterns and conservation challenges of Pietradura across two iconic structures: the Naulakha Pavilion and Shish Mahal within the Fort of Lahore. Through material analysis, design examination, and time-effect assessment, the research highlights the Mughals' masterful craftsmanship, aesthetic choices, and the durability of their stonework. Findings underscore Shah Jahan's reign as a period of exceptional refinement in Pietradura, paralleling its use in other monumental works like the Taj Mahal and Moti Masjid.

The dynamic behaviour of the roof interventions in the Basilica San Francesco in Assisi

Assisi, the Basilica of San Francesco and Other Franciscan Sites — 2015 — WHEA11F4F8A96

Research reveals that roof interventions in the Basilica of San Francesco, Assisi, significantly altered its seismic response during the 1997 Umbria-Marche earthquake. These modifications decreased the structure's fundamental period, redirecting seismic loads toward the façade and transept, likely contributing to the collapse of two Gothic vaults. The study employed a simple analytical model to assess how changes in roof stiffness and mass over centuries influenced the basilica's dynamic behavior during the second shock. Findings suggest that cumulative damage from previous earthquakes and retrofitting interventions may have played a critical role in the 1997 collapse, highlighting the complex interplay between historical modifications and seismic vulnerability.

The Earliest Maiolica Ceramic Dishes in the Old Town in Vilnius

Vilnius Historic Centre — 2015 — WHE8892BD79D0

Archaeological analysis of maiolica ceramic dishes from the late 16th and early 17th centuries in Vilnius' Old Town reveals their production origins, providing new insights into the rarity and cultural significance of these items during a period when they served both aesthetic and luxury functions. Five plates were traced to Antwerp, one to Faenza (Italy), and another fragment to Liguria or Venice, based on technical and stylistic characteristics. Notably, three plates featured holes for wall hanging, indicating their dual role as decorative and functional objects. The study also links four dishes to Catholic monasteries, deepening our understanding of maiolica's role in Vilnius' daily life during this era.

The early 8thcentury A.D. zoomorphic iconography of the wall decorations in Qasr al-Amra, Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan

Quseir Amra — 2015 — WHE8A350F1D06

The early 8th-century A.D. zoomorphic iconography of Qasr al-Amra, Jordan, reveals a rich depiction of local fauna, including snakes, birds (herons, flamingos, cranes, peacocks, and partridges), carnivores (brown bears, wildcats, and pika), and ungulates (Syrian onagers and Persian gazelles). These illustrations likely draw influence from the Iranian epic poem Shâh Nâmeh and other traditional Sassanid and Muslim texts. The study analyzes the surviving wall paintings, providing insights into the artistic and cultural context of the Umayyad period. By examining these decorations, researchers uncover a blend of local wildlife representation and literary influences, offering a unique glimpse into the iconography of the time.

The early Pleistocene deciduous hominid molar FS ‐72 from the Sangiran dome of java, Indonesia: A taxonomic reappraisal based on its comparative endostructural characterization

Sangiran Early Man Site — 2015 — WHE3AA1DD51A1

A reappraisal of the early Pleistocene hominid molar FS-72 from the Sangiran Dome, Java, challenges its long-standing classification as part of the Homo erectus hypodigm. Using advanced 2-3D virtual imaging and geometric morphometric analyses, researchers found that FS-72's internal structure—characterized by thinner enamel and a pongine-like enamel-dentine junction morphology—more closely resembles fossil orangutans (Pongo) than Homo erectus or modern humans. This discovery underscores the complexity of taxonomic assignments for isolated teeth in Java's Pleistocene deposits, where overlap between hominid and great ape traits complicates identification. The study highlights the significance of endostructural analysis in resolving ambiguous fossil classifications.

The Economic History of Urbanization

Ancient Jericho/Tell es-Sultan — 2015 — WHEB2F6D9E426

Ancient Jericho, located in the Jordan Valley, stands as a prime candidate for being the world's first city, with archaeological evidence indicating it housed approximately 2,000 inhabitants dating back to at least the ninth millennium BC. This discovery underscores the profound impact of urbanization on human progress, from engineering advancements to cultural flourishes like art and literature. Cities emerged because the collective benefits of close-knit living—such as enhanced social interactions and shared resources—outweighed the challenges. The study synthesizes historical and economic perspectives to highlight how urbanization has consistently driven human achievement across civilizations.

The effect of nano-TiO2 and plant extracts on microbial strains isolated from Theban ancient Egyptian royal tomb painting

Ancient Thebes with its Necropolis — 2015 — WHE35DB78296D

A study on the deterioration of ancient Egyptian royal tomb paintings in West Thebes, Egypt, identified microbial strains contributing to bio-deterioration. Three fungi (Fusarium oxysporum, Rhizopus stolonifer, Aspergillus flavus) and two bacteria (Staphylococcus warnei, Micrococcus luteus) were isolated from the paintings. The research found that nano-TiO2 at 160 ppm and plant extracts (Sesbania sesban and Ricinus communis) at 100 mg effectively eliminated microbial growth without altering pigments or binding media like arabic gum. While these treatments showed promise, potential risks of recolonization by viable cells left behind were noted.

The Effect of Salinity, Rock Type and pH on the Electrokinetics of Carbonate-Brine Interface and Surface Complexation Modeling

Stevns Klint — 2015 — WHE9A23B62BA3

Laboratory studies reveal that reducing brine salinity and altering pH can shift carbonate rock wettability toward a less oil-wetting state, driven by changes in surface charge. This effect is consistent across different carbonate rock types—including Stevns Klint chalk, limestone, and dolomite—though chalk exhibits the highest reactivity to pH and salinity changes, while dolomite shows the least. Surface complexation modeling suggests that surface species like >CaSO4-, >CO3Ca+, and >CO3Mg+ significantly influence total surface charge, with pH increasing the zeta-potential by converting negatively charged moieties into neutral ones. These findings provide insights into reservoir behavior under varying salinity and pH conditions, offering a tractable approach to predicting carbonate rock electrokinetic properties.

The Effects of a Campaign on Awareness and Participation Among Local Youth at the Lenggong Valley World Heritage Site, Malaysia

Archaeological Heritage of the Lenggong Valley — 2015 — WHECA06CD8784

A targeted campaign significantly increased local youth's awareness of the value and willingness to participate in conserving Malaysia's Lenggong Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (WHS). The study analyzed 175 questionnaires from secondary school students before and after the campaign, revealing notable improvements in both heritage appreciation and conservation engagement. This demonstrates that community-based initiatives can effectively enhance local commitment to preserving WHS criteria, ensuring long-term sustainability.

The effects of burn entry and burn severity on ponderosa pine and mixed conifer forests in Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park — 2015 — WHE0B22B77AAC

Repeated prescribed fires with increased severity are necessary to effectively reduce white fir encroachment and promote aspen regeneration in Grand Canyon National Park's ponderosa pine and mixed conifer forests. The study found that single, low-severity burns did not alter tree composition or structure in white fir-encroached areas, while second-entry low-severity burns significantly reduced white fir densities. In dry mixed conifer forests, high-severity fire triggered substantial aspen regeneration. Researchers analyzed burn entry effects and severity on species composition and regeneration across two forest types, providing critical insights for future forest management strategies.

The effects of past climate variability on fire and vegetation in the cerrãdo savanna ecosystem of the Huanchaca Mesetta, Noel Kempff Mercado National Park, NE Bolivia

Noel Kempff Mercado National Park — 2015 — WHE6F6A498522

A 14,500-year sedimentary record from Huanchaca Mesetta in Noel Kempff Mercado National Park reveals the resilience of cerrãdo savanna ecosystems to past climate variability. The study found that while fire activity increased during the Holocene due to warming conditions, fuel availability decreased under prolonged dry seasons, shaping modern vegetation patterns. Natural drivers—soil, climate, and fire—rather than human influence have primarily controlled vegetation and fire regimes in this ecosystem. Analyzing phytoliths, stable isotopes, and charcoal provided high-resolution insights into past environmental changes.

The Empires' Edge: Militarization, Resistance, and Transcending Hegemony in the Pacific

Bikini Atoll Nuclear Test Site — 2015 — WHE04781AFF90

The militarization of the Pacific, driven by global geopolitical shifts and rising tensions, has profound negative impacts on both people and environments. Research spanning a decade reveals that contemporary social movements in the region are challenging military dominance, advocating for demilitarized security models based on mutual aid and international solidarity. By examining 'sacrificed' islands like Bikini Atoll, Okinawa, Hawai'i, and Guam, this study argues that the future of global politics hinges not on hegemonic control but on choosing between domination or a more egalitarian, cooperative system. The findings underscore the potential for local resistance to reshape international relations toward equity.