World Heritage Research: Search

Publications

Showing 25921 – 25940 of 30315 publications

Aspects of Privacy in Muslim Malay Traditional Dwelling Interiors in Melaka

Melaka and George Town, Historic Cities of the Straits of Malacca — 2013 — WHE4066CEC8D1

Research on Malay traditional dwellings (MTDs) in Melaka reveals that privacy design in these homes is deeply influenced by Islamic norms and cultural practices, particularly concerning family members and non-mahram visitors. The study found that spatial planning in MTDs varies significantly based on dwelling size, affecting occupant behaviors and privacy provisions. Using a combination of occupant observations, layout measurements, and in-depth interviews, the authors identified key design principles that ensure privacy while adhering to Islamic perspectives. These findings provide actionable recommendations for future architectural designs, balancing cultural, religious, and functional requirements.

Assessing hydrological effects of human interventions on coastal systems: numerical applications to the Venice Lagoon

Venice and its Lagoon — 2013 — WHE0B7B0E2CCB

Human interventions and sea level rise have significantly altered the hydrological dynamics of Venice Lagoon, reducing its flushing capacity and water renewal time. Research using hydrodynamic models revealed that between 1927 and 2002, while absolute water exchange with the sea increased, the daily fraction exchanged decreased, leading to a reduction in water renewal time from 11.9 to 10.8 days. Morphological changes over the past decade further extended this time by 0.5 days. Future scenarios project that Venice Lagoon will become more restricted due to rising sea levels and periodic closures during flooding events, exacerbating these trends and impacting ecological dynamics.

Assessing Protocols for Identifying Pacific Island Archaeological Fish Remains: The Contribution of Vertebrae

Henderson Island — 2013 — WHED451D12F8C

Incorporating all vertebrae into fish bone identification protocols significantly enhances the reconstruction of prehistoric fishing practices in Pacific Island contexts. A study comparing three identification methods—using cranial bones, expanded cranial bones, and all vertebrae—revealed that including vertebrae increases the number of identifiable specimens and provides more accurate rank-order abundance for taxa like grouper (Serranidae) and surgeonfishes (Acanthuridae). This approach improves minimum number of individuals calculations and offers better insights into subsistence practices. The research, conducted on a well-preserved assemblage from Henderson Island, underscores the importance of standardizing protocols to ensure consistency in comparative studies across regions.

Assessing the Flood Impacts and the Cultural Properties Vulnerabilities in Ayutthaya, Thailand

Historic City of Ayutthaya — 2013 — WHEB3F95BDE73

Flood risk to Ayutthaya’s UNESCO World Heritage monuments is primarily determined by elevation above mean sea level and proximity to rivers or canals. A 2013 study analyzed flood-induced damage—categorized as high, medium, or low risk—and monument value (high, medium, or low) to prioritize conservation efforts. The research found that sites closer to water bodies faced the greatest vulnerability, particularly during the severe 2011 floods, which overwhelmed traditional canal-based flood defenses. By integrating environmental damage assessments with cultural significance rankings, the study highlighted critical areas for stakeholder-driven conservation planning to mitigate future risks.

Assessment of bioclimatic conditions in cities for tourism and recreational purposes (a Warsaw case study)

Historic Centre of Warsaw — 2013 — WHE4D2F2FF0A7

Research demonstrates that the Universal Thermal Climate Index (UTCI) is a reliable tool for assessing bioclimatic conditions in urban areas, particularly for tourism and recreation. A study of Warsaw's Old Town revealed that UTCI effectively aligns with tourists' thermal sensation votes, indicating its potential as a standardized metric for evaluating urban comfort. Unlike traditional climate-tourism indices, this approach integrates meteorological data with human perception, offering a more nuanced understanding of bioclimate in cities.

Assessment of biological colonization of historic buildings in the former Auschwitz II-Birkenau concentration camp

Auschwitz Birkenau German Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp (1940-1945) — 2013 — WHE4F9D622D24

A study assessing biological colonization of historic buildings at Auschwitz II-Birkenau revealed significant biodiversity among colonizing organisms, including bacteria, fungi, cyanobacteria, algae, lichens, and bryophytes. While microbial activity on barrack surfaces was not elevated, symptoms of biodegradation were observed, particularly in wooden structures. The research identified over 30 species of lichens and mosses, with notable differences between wooden and brick buildings. Cyanobacteria and algae predominantly affected floors and bathroom walls, while lichens and bryophytes colonized outer surfaces more extensively on brick structures. This assessment provides critical data for developing targeted disinfection and conservation strategies to mitigate progressive biodegradation.

Assessment of cruise–ship activity influences on emissions, air quality, and visibility in Glacier Bay National Park

Kluane / Wrangell-St. Elias / Glacier Bay / Tatshenshini-Alsek — 2013 — WHEA188399196

Cruise-ship emissions significantly impact air quality and visibility in Glacier Bay National Park, with potential for substantial mitigation through speed restrictions and Emission Control Areas (ECAs). The study found that cruising at a constant speed of 6.69 m/s could reduce particulate matter (PM) emissions by 32% and slightly improve visibility. Implementing an ECA in Alaska could further cut PM emissions by 74%, enhancing visibility by up to 0.2 deciviews on the best-visibility days. The research used an activity-based emission model combined with the Weather Research and Forecasting model to assess these impacts, revealing that spatial distribution of emissions and concentrations varies significantly with altered cruise speeds, affecting areas up to 30 km downwind.

Assessment of Priority Options for Preservation of Historic City Centre Buildings using MCDM (ARAS)

Vilnius Historic Centre — 2013 — WHECE9868FF96

A systematic approach using the ARAS method of Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) has been developed to prioritize the preservation needs of historic buildings in Vilnius' city center, addressing challenges posed by national regulations and public/investor demands. The study identifies key indicators—archaeological, historical, architectural, economic, and social—to assess whether buildings require reconstruction, emphasizing the need for precise, well-reasoned decisions to avoid costly errors. This method provides a structured framework for balancing cultural heritage preservation with practical utilization, offering a model applicable to similar urban contexts.

Assessment of the Child-Friendliness of the Küük Ayasofya Neighborhood in Istanbul, Turkey

Historic Areas of Istanbul — 2013 — WHEFE47BBC524

A study assessing the child-friendliness of the Küük Ayasofya Neighborhood in Istanbul, Turkey, reveals that historic urban areas undergoing rapid development can be transformed into more inclusive spaces for children through strategic planning and design. The research identifies key criteria for creating child-friendly open spaces, emphasizing the need for safe, engaging, and accessible environments. Using a combination of observations, photography, and child surveys, the study highlights the importance of integrating children's perspectives into urban planning processes. Lessons learned from this initiative provide valuable insights for similar projects in other historic city centers.

Assessment of the Empirical Management Method of Coppice Chestnut (Castanea sativa Mill.) Forests Practiced by the Monks and its Effect on the Availability of Forest Soil Resources in Mount Athos, Greece

Mount Athos — 2013 — WHE6D74F834C7

Research on Mount Athos reveals that the empirical chestnut forest management method practiced by monks significantly impacts soil nutrient availability. Analysis of 10, 20, and 40-year-old coppice chestnut stands showed increased organic matter and nutrient concentrations in younger (10 years) and older (40 years) stands compared to intermediate-aged (20 years) ones. However, the cultivation treatments also led to severe degradation of soil nutrient resources, highlighting a critical trade-off between forest productivity and soil health.

Assessment of the Realistic Stiffness and Capacity of the Connections in Quincha Frames to Develop Numerical Models

Historic Centre of Lima — 2013 — WHE629348365F

Researchers have developed a finite element model to accurately represent the seismic behavior of quincha frames, a traditional Peruvian construction technique combining timber and cane-mud infill. The study found that modeling connections between beams and posts as semi-rigid springs, with stiffness calculated using the component method, closely matched experimental results. This approach allows for precise quantification of the frame's contribution to overall structural performance before integrating the infill material, which remains challenging to characterize. The findings provide a foundation for better understanding the seismic resilience of historic structures in Lima, many of which feature this vulnerable construction technique.

Assessment of Urban Attractiveness of Port Cities in Southern Italy—A Case Study of Torre Annunziata

Archaeological Areas of Pompei, Herculaneum and Torre Annunziata — 2013 — WHE427FD0BDE7

A sustainable redevelopment of Torre Annunziata's post-industrial port and waterfront could integrate economic growth, ecological preservation, and social opportunities. The study proposes participative regeneration strategies that enhance the city's creative potential and resilience, drawing comparisons with La Spezia's waterfront to identify effective approaches. Through interviews and analysis, it suggests redesigning the area to foster a strategic vision for future development, balancing environmental, cultural, and economic aspects.

Asset-based community development as applied to tourism in Tibet

Historic Ensemble of the Potala Palace, Lhasa — 2013 — WHEB519FC8A64

A pioneering tourism study demonstrates the feasibility of using asset-based community development (ABCD) as a strategy for poverty alleviation, particularly in politically sensitive regions like Tibet. The research, conducted in Lhasa, identified five key tourism assets—including world heritage sites and underdeveloped local resources such as traditional Tibetan yards and medicines—that hold significant potential for sustainable development. Through mixed-methods approaches, including photo-elicitation interviews and surveys, the study mapped community perceptions of asset value, development challenges, and desirability, revealing nuanced insights into local priorities. This work not only advances theoretical frameworks for community-based tourism but also provides actionable recommendations for policymakers, emphasizing the importance of integrating emic perspectives in marginalized environments.

Atmospheric correction and inherent optical property estimation in the southwest New Caledonia lagoon using AVNIR-2 high-resolution data

Lagoons of New Caledonia: Reef Diversity and Associated Ecosystems — 2013 — WHE9D01D226BE

A novel method for estimating inherent optical properties (IOPs) and chlorophyll-a concentration (Chla) using high-resolution AVNIR-2 satellite data was successfully validated in the southwest lagoon of New Caledonia. By iteratively correcting atmospheric and sea-surface reflectance, followed by seafloor reflectance adjustments, researchers achieved estimates that closely matched in situ measurements—even in complex lagoon environments. This approach demonstrates the potential for local optimization of IOPs and Chla retrievals with high-resolution sensors, offering a practical tool for monitoring coastal ecosystems.

Augustin Ehrensvärd 1710-1772 by Oscar Nikula

Fortress of Suomenlinna — 2013 — WHE01F0B4175E

Augustin Ehrensvärd (1710–1772), the visionary architect behind Suomenlinna Fortress, is celebrated for his groundbreaking contributions to military fortification. Oscar Nikula's biography delves into Ehrensvärd's life and work, highlighting his innovative approaches to fortress design during a pivotal era of European military strategy. The book explores how Ehrensvärd, influenced by his military upbringing and educational tours across Europe, developed advanced techniques for siege warfare, as documented in his manual 'Anledning til skiuta och kasta bomber.' Nikula's meticulous research, drawing from historical records and Ehrensvärd's own writings, sheds light on the strategic necessity of fortifying Finland against Russian threats. The reprint of this seminal work commemorates its 50th anniversary, offering a comprehensive account of Ehrensvärd's enduring legacy in both military engineering and Finnish history.

Aymara Indian Perspectives on Development in the Andes

Settlement and Artificial Mummification of the Chinchorro Culture in the Arica and Parinacota Region — 2013 — WHED94F1A840C

Aymara Indians, indigenous people of the Andes near the Atacama Desert, face significant challenges in maintaining their traditional and sustainable systems of irrigation, agriculture, and pastoralism amid rapid economic growth. Research reveals a complex conflict between development pressures—such as highway construction (Chile Highway 11), water diversion for hydroelectricity and irrigation, and national park policies—and the Aymara's deep cultural and ecological dependence on land and water. The study employs collaborative ethnographic interviews across 16 Andean villages, integrating botany, archaeology, and history to uncover the ethnoecological dimensions of this struggle. It highlights the Aymara worldview and their fight to preserve their way of life, offering a multidisciplinary perspective that bridges indigenous knowledge with scientific disciplines.

Back-analysis modelling for the catastrophic avalanches in Sewell, Central Chilean Andes

Sewell Mining Town — 2013 — WHEA9863E51AE

Catastrophic avalanches in Sewell, Chile, exhibit distinct behaviors based on snow type and altitude, with wet dense flows and dry powder avalanches showing different run-out dynamics. Using back-analysis modeling with Aval-1D and RAMMS software, researchers reconstructed four major events (1914, 1926, 1941, 1944) to analyze their impact and propose modifications to friction parameters for better risk assessment in mountainous mining towns. The study highlights the influence of El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) on precipitation patterns, which directly affects avalanche conditions in this region.

Bacterial Communities in Pigmented Biofilms Formed on the Sandstone Bas-Relief Walls of the Bayon Temple, Angkor Thom, Cambodia

Angkor — 2013 — WHEA6EBA132FB

Research at the Bayon Temple in Angkor Thom, Cambodia, reveals that pigmented biofilms on sandstone bas-reliefs harbor distinct bacterial communities that differ from those in surrounding air and exhibit low sequence similarity to known database entries. Non-destructive sampling identified novel bacterial groups associated with different biofilm colors: Rubrobacter in salmon pink biofilms, Cyanobacteria in chrome green biofilms, and a mix of Cyanobacteria and Chloroflexi in signal violet biofilms, among others. Stratified analysis showed that blue-green biofilms, linked to severe deterioration, were rich in Cyanobacteria near the surface and Chloroflexi deeper within, with high nitrate ion concentrations. These findings provide critical insights into biofilm formation processes and tropical sandstone weathering, offering potential strategies for mitigating damage to UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Angkor.

Bacterial Contamination in the Surface Waterbodies in Sagarmatha National Park and Buffer Zone, Nepal

Sagarmatha National Park — 2013 — WHE77BB42BB71

A concerning level of bacterial contamination was found in surface waterbodies within Sagarmatha National Park and its Buffer Zone, Nepal. The study identified significant concentrations of fecal coliforms, indicating potential health risks for both ecosystems and visitors. Researchers analyzed 20 water samples from lakes, streams, and ponds across the region using standard microbiological techniques. Findings suggest that human activities, including tourism and waste management practices, are likely contributing to contamination levels, posing threats to water quality in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Bait Preferences and Population Status of Small Mammals in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park — 2013 — WHEDC47487ABD

A study in Great Smoky Mountains National Park found that peanut butter was the most effective bait for trapping small mammals, significantly outperforming empty traps or those baited with potted meat. However, the overall number of small mammals caught in 2010 was substantially lower than in a previous study conducted between 1999 and 2003, despite similar trapping efforts. This decline may be attributed to factors such as a intervening drought and the recent introduction of coyotes (Canis latrans) and European wild boar (Sus scrofa), both of which could negatively impact small mammal populations. The study also did not detect the presence of the least weasel (Mustela nivalis), suggesting it is unlikely to inhabit the park, but recommended further research to confirm this and explore the effects of invasive species on native small mammals.