World Heritage Research: Search

Publications

Showing 26181 – 26200 of 30315 publications

Entry and dispersion of microorganisms inside Altamira Cave:New evidences from aerobiological and atmospheric gases surveys

Cave of Altamira and Paleolithic Cave Art of Northern Spain — 2013 — WHE41805AB1F3

Aerobiological and atmospheric gas surveys reveal that microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi, can penetrate deep into Altamira Cave's Well Hall, far from the main entrance. This challenges previous assumptions about microbial entry being solely dependent on atmospheric exchange through the cave's single, elevated entrance. The study combines aerobiological data with multiparametric gas analysis to uncover this novel pathway for microbial dispersion, posing potential risks to the conservation of the UNESCO World Heritage Site's Paleolithic rock art.

Environmental Education in Côte d'Ivoire/West Africa: Extra-Curricular Primary School Teaching Shows Positive Impact on Environmental Knowledge and Attitudes

Taï National Park — 2013 — WHEF4E291E0FB

An extra-curricular environmental education program, Club P.A.N., significantly enhanced students' knowledge and attitudes toward nature in nine villages near Côte d'Ivoire's Taï National Park. Over two years, 1,244 participants showed measurable gains in environmental awareness, with boys and sixth-grade pupils benefiting the most. The study, conducted by Borchers et al. (2013), used multivariate analysis to assess changes in knowledge and attitudes, highlighting the program's effectiveness while identifying areas for further research.

Environmental Significance of Major and Trace Elements in the Soils of Selected Areas in Erbil City, Kurdistan Region, Northern Iraq

Erbil Citadel — 2013 — WHEDF827CFA49

A study analyzing soil samples from six sites in Erbil, including the UNESCO-listed Erbil Citadel, reveals critical levels of heavy metals in industrial and citadel areas. Concentrations of Co, Mn, and Pb exceeded pollutant thresholds in industrial zones, while Ni, Cu, Co, and Mn reached hazardous levels in the Citadel's soils. Phosphorus pollution was also noted in the Citadel samples. Despite these concerns, most elements, including Fe, K, Al, and others, remained below international standards for toxicity. The research highlights localized environmental risks, particularly in urban and heritage sites, underlining the need for further monitoring of heavy metal accumulation in soil.

Envisat/ASAR Images for the Calibration of Wind Drag Action in the Doñana Wetlands 2D Hydrodynamic Model

Doñana National Park — 2013 — WHE301C8D7E9A

A two-dimensional hydrodynamic model of Doñana National Park wetlands accurately simulates wind-induced water displacement, demonstrating displacements of up to 2 kilometers. Researchers calibrated the model using Envisat/ASAR satellite images and on-site wind records, assessing different formulations for wind drag action. The study found that including an atmospheric stability parameter did not significantly improve results, suggesting that such data may not be necessary for accurate simulations in hypothetical or design scenarios. This research contributes to better predictions of flooding and emergence patterns, aiding in the assessment of hydrologic restoration actions within Doñana's basin.

Epigraphic Literacy and Christian Identity: Modes of Written Discourse in the Newly Christian European North by Kristel Zilmer and Judith Jesch, eds (review)

Bryggen — 2013 — WHEE473C71F5B

A collection of essays examines the role of epigraphic writing, particularly runic inscriptions from Scandinavian rune stones and Bryggen's rune staves, as indicators of social, cultural, and religious practices during the Viking Age and early Christianization. The study reveals that runic prayers exhibit regional characteristics of nascent Christianity, suggesting an early cult of Christ in certain areas. Additionally, it explores the pragmatic use of runic writing for commercial correspondence, charms, and practical directions, highlighting its instrumentalist communication aspects. High-resolution scans and linguistic analyses were employed to differentiate carvers, assess their social status, and interpret the transition from pre-Christian to Christian milieus.

Erhalt und Instandsetzung mit einfachen Mitteln: Der südliche Rundturm der Roten Halle in Pergamon

Pergamon and its Multi-Layered Cultural Landscape — 2013 — WHE21CBCE3B3A

A significant Roman-era structure, the southern round tower of Pergamon's Red Hall, has been successfully restored using simple yet effective techniques that prioritize material preservation. Built by Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD, this tower stands as a notable example of Eastern Roman architecture. The restoration project, led by the German Archaeological Institute (DAI), employed locally sourced materials and skilled local workers to ensure structural integrity while maintaining historical authenticity. Completed in September 2009, the tower was reopened to the public, serving as an exhibition space for archaeological artifacts. Ongoing work includes the restoration of a cross vault above an adjacent substructure, set to be finalized in 2013. This project demonstrates that complex heritage conservation can be achieved through straightforward, locally adapted methods without compromising historical significance.

Eruptions at Lone Star Geyser, Yellowstone National Park, USA: 1. Energetics and eruption dynamics

Yellowstone National Park — 2013 — WHE158654B8DD

A detailed analysis of Lone Star Geyser's eruptions in Yellowstone National Park reveals that its heat output, estimated at 1.4–1.5 MW, is less than 0.1% of the total heat output from the Yellowstone Caldera. The study, conducted over four days, identified four distinct phases in the geyser's eruption cycle: a fountaining phase with high jet velocities (16–28 m/s) and low steam fraction, a posteruption relaxation phase, a recharge period, and a preplay phase characterized by steam pulses and flow oscillations. Researchers used simultaneous measurements of water discharge, acoustic emissions, infrared intensity, and video to quantify these dynamics, providing new insights into the energetics and behavior of geyser eruptions.

Eruptive fracture location forecasts from high‐frequency events on Piton de la Fournaise Volcano

Pitons Management Area — 2013 — WHEC103AB38B3

A new method for forecasting eruption locations on Piton de la Fournaise Volcano, a highly active basaltic volcano on La Réunion island, has been identified. Researchers discovered that high-frequency seismic events occurring during the quiescent period between volcano-tectonic swarms and eruptive tremors are strongly linked to future eruption sites. These shallow, short-duration events, lasting only a few hours, indicate the opening of magma pathways at shallow depths, even while magma is still propagating vertically. Unlike previous models that attributed such seismicity to direct magma pressure, this study suggests it reflects the volcano's generic response to stress perturbations, offering significant potential for improving short-term eruption location predictions. The findings are based on analysis of five eruptions between November 2009 and December 2010.

Erzählräume nach Auschwitz

Auschwitz Birkenau German Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp (1940-1945) — 2013 — WHE551AEF3EE3

Survivors of the Holocaust sought to bear witness to their experiences, yet little is known about the conditions and constraints shaping their narratives. This study reveals that understanding the discursive contexts of survivors' testimonies—whether in literary works or videographic interviews—enables a more nuanced reception of their accounts. By analyzing post-war literary testimonies (e.g., by Primo Levi, Jean Améry) alongside videographic interviews from the 1990s, the research demonstrates how these two key forms of testimony emerged under distinct narrative pressures and societal demands. The findings underscore that engaging with survivors' narratives requires recognizing their original dialogic intent, which persists even today.

Essai d’application de la méthode de la psychologie environnementale à travers l’exemple de la ville Méso-Élamite de Dûr-Untaš (Tchoga-Zanbil, Iran), site inscrit au patrimoine mondial de l’Unesco

Tchogha Zanbil — 2013 — WHE3991AFEC3B

Chogha Zanbil, an UNESCO World Heritage Site in Iran, reveals the strategic urban planning of the Elamite king Untash-Napirisha through environmental psychology analysis. The site's structure, featuring concentric zones, towers, and pathways, reflects political, religious, social, and economic reforms. This study highlights how the layout—including boundary walls and decorative elements—served as a deliberate architectural expression of power and cultural identity during the Meso-Elamite period (Dûr-Untaš). By reconstructing the site's original height and examining its symbolic significance, researchers uncover insights into ancient urban design and its psychological impact on inhabitants.

Estakhr Project - Second Preliminary Report of the Joint Mission of the Iranian Center for Archaeological Research, the Parsa-Pasargadae Research Foundation and the Sapienza University of Rome, Italy

Pasargadae — 2013 — WHE0A7155D46E

Archaeological excavations at Pasargadae have uncovered evidence of urban decline dating back to the 11th century. The research, conducted by a joint mission involving Iranian and Italian institutions, identified eight distinct phases of development in an excavated trench west of the mosque. Notably, Phase 2 revealed a significant paved road connected to an extensive sewer system, suggesting a once-thriving urban quarter. Subsequent phases showed a gradual decline, with earthen roads replacing the paved ones and narrowing the carriageway, indicating a shift in urban significance. This study provides crucial insights into the historical evolution of Pasargadae, shedding light on its transition from a prominent center to a less influential area.

Estimation of Growth Rates Based on Tree-ring Analysis of Cryptomeria japonica on Yakushima Island, Japan

Yakushima — 2013 — WHEB6025F2904

Tree-ring analysis of Cryptomeria japonica on Yakushima Island reveals that growth rates were significantly higher 100–150 years ago compared to the last three decades, suggesting that historical logging activities may have positively influenced tree growth. The study examined 28 regenerated trees, finding that basal area increment (BAI) increased rapidly until around 30 cm diameter before plateauing, with growth patterns beyond 70 cm remaining undetermined due to limited samples. Unlike artificial forests, Yakushima's Cr. japonica showed prolonged rapid growth, lasting up to 110 years. These findings highlight the potential ecological impact of past logging on forest regeneration and long-term growth dynamics.

Estimation of N20 and NO emission from a tropical highland forest in Rwanda

Nyungwe National Park — 2013 — WHE07AD234937

A tropical highland forest in Rwanda, specifically Nyungwe National Park, emerges as a significant but poorly understood source of nitrous oxide (N2O) and nitric oxide (NO), critical greenhouse gases with global warming potential. This study quantifies N2O and NO emissions from the park's soil, contributing to broader estimates for tropical forests—a major yet uncertain component in global atmospheric budgets. By analyzing legacy data, researchers identified key soil properties influencing these emissions, providing a foundation for more accurate regional and global simulations. The findings highlight the need for targeted monitoring of specific parameters to refine predictions, addressing critical gaps in African data and advancing understanding of tropical forest contributions to climate change.

Être piéton à Salvador de Bahia et Caracas : une proximité fragilisée ?

Historic Centre of Salvador de Bahia — 2013 — WHE8C3F995B99

Pedestrian experiences in Salvador de Bahia and Caracas reveal how social segmentation, security concerns, and urban redevelopment undermine shared street space. The study highlights the fragile nature of proximity in these Latin American cities through sensitive expressions of bodily movement, demonstrating that spatial conflicts disrupt communal engagement despite efforts to reimagine public areas.

Étude et modélisation des transferts hydriques et thermiques au sein des matériaux inorganiques poreux : application aux matériaux du patrimoine bâti ancien, exemple de l'Hypogée des Dunes à Poitiers et de la crypte de l'abbatiale de Saint-Savin-sur-Gartempe

Abbey Church of Saint-Savin sur Gartempe — 2013 — WHE64CF327719

Researchers developed a non-intrusive method to measure thermal conductivity and moisture content in porous inorganic materials, such as stone and plaster, used in historic buildings. This approach, adapted from the hot-wire technique for corrosive fluids, allows for surface-level measurements that account for surface roughness, providing crucial data for the conservation of heritage sites. The study applied this method to analyze microclimatic conditions in two historic sites: the Hypogée des Dunes in Poitiers and the crypt of the Abbey Church of Saint-Savin-sur-Gartempe. Findings revealed the impact of restoration work on the Hypogée's climate and the influence of climatic variations on biological film formation in the crypt, offering insights into the preservation challenges faced by these UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Étude scientifique des peintures murales de Saint-Savin-sur-Gartempe

Abbey Church of Saint-Savin sur Gartempe — 2013 — WHE0CC7D93A5D

A groundbreaking analysis of the murals at Saint-Savin-sur-Gartempe Abbey reveals that the paintings were executed using two distinct techniques: true fresco in the first three bays and dry painting on a lime wash in the subsequent bays. This discovery was made possible through scientific examination of samples from the nave's vault, conducted by the Laboratoire de Recherche des Monuments Historiques in collaboration with restorers and art historians. The study identified calcite grains, likely sourced from metamorphic rock resembling marble, as a unique marker distinguishing original paintings from later repaints. This finding sheds new light on the abbey's artistic techniques and conservation history.

Eugen_ia. Oder: Im Netz der Ähnlichkeiten : Über Formen des visuellen Othering im 12. Jahrhundert

Vézelay, Church and Hill — 2013 — WHE83C2F30048

Twelfth-century Christian art did not rely on exclusive physical features to visually distinguish Jews, Muslims, Africans, or heretics. Instead, representations from this period shared ambiguous physiognomic and iconographic traits among 'others,' challenging the notion that discriminatory visual codes were fully developed. This ambiguity suggests a semiotic practice where rigid exclusion and enemy construction did not depend on formalized physical distinctions. The study examines these principles through an analysis of Eugenia of Alexandria's depiction on a nave capital in Vézelay's abbey church, which blends male and female characteristics. By tracing the interplay between meaning production and visual representation, the research offers insight into how 'otherness' was constructed in 12th-century art without relying solely on denotative physical markers.

Euoplocephalus tutus and the Diversity of Ankylosaurid Dinosaurs in the Late Cretaceous of Alberta, Canada, and Montana, USA

Dinosaur Provincial Park — 2013 — WHEB7B3B682C0

A comprehensive review of ankylosaurid dinosaurs from the Late Cretaceous of Alberta, Canada, and Montana, USA, challenges long-standing taxonomic classifications. The study resurrects four species—Anodontosaurus lambei, Scolosaurus cutleri, Dyoplosaurus acutosquameus, and Oohkotokia horneri—as distinct from Euoplocephalus tutus, based on morphological differences in skull ornamentation, osteoderms, and skeletal features. Anodontosaurus is characterized by posterior orbital ornamentation and wide knob osteoderms, while Scolosaurus exhibits long squamosal horns and low medial osteoderms. Dyoplosaurus is differentiated by pelvic and pedal morphology, along with a narrow tail club knob. The research leverages extensive fossil material, including dozens of Euoplocephalus specimens, to refine our understanding of intraspecific variation and taxonomic diversity within this group.

Evaluating Indicators for Renewal of Properties via Gentrification in Budapest

Budapest, including the Banks of the Danube, the Buda Castle Quarter and Andrássy Avenue — 2013 — WHE93CC10EAD7

Gentrification in Budapest's Andrássy Avenue, part of the UNESCO World Heritage site since 2002, drives property prices up significantly post-architectural renewal but leaves flats in poor condition unaffected. The study identifies three key research indicators—economical, social, and architectural—to model gentrification impacts using descriptive statistics and factor analysis. It reveals that young, highly educated residents are drawn to renewed areas like Liszt Ferenc Square, while facility managers must tailor maintenance budgets to the social profiles of property owners. The case study of a renewed residential palace in Teréz Town underscores how rent-gap dynamics and functional shifts shape urban renewal processes.

Evaluating the “recovery level” of endangered species without prior information before alien invasion

Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, Northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island — 2013 — WHEE8EC7E7483

Researchers have developed a novel method to measure the recovery of endangered species following invasive predator management, demonstrating its effectiveness on Amami-Oshima Island, Japan. The study found that population densities of four endangered species—Amami rabbit and three frog species—showed clear signs of recovery as mongoose densities declined, with populations reaching estimated carrying capacities at 20-40% of surveyed sites. This approach, combining long-term monitoring data with a logistic growth model, provides a measurable benchmark for assessing the success of invasive predator eradication programs without requiring pre-invasion baseline data. The findings highlight the potential for widespread application in conservation efforts, offering unambiguous goals for managing invasive species.