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Publications

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Returning to the Site of Horror

ESMA Museum and Site of Memory – Former Clandestine Centre of Detention, Torture and Extermination — 2012 — WHE2039ECF89F

Debates surrounding the transformation of Argentina's former Naval School of Mechanics (ESMA) into a 'Space for Memory' reveal a lack of consensus on how to adequately commemorate sites of state terrorism. This absence of closure presents an opportunity to critically examine the politics and material poetics of contemporary memorial museums, particularly in relation to postmemory, secondary witnessing, and the politics of empathy. The study analyzes key arguments in this debate, highlighting their implicit or explicit attitudes towards museal forms and their broader implications for understanding collective memory and historical trauma.

Reverse-Engineering Evaluation and Monitoring of Nemrut Monuments

Nemrut Dağ — 2012 — WHE627A8141AD

A reverse-engineering approach reveals that Nemrut Dağ's monuments, constructed 2000 years ago on Mount Nemrut (2206 m), likely suffered asymmetric damage due to a combination of natural forces—such as earthquakes, snow load, and wind—and potential human interference like grave theft attempts. The study, using Swiss snow-load guidelines, nonlinear blast-loading simulations via LS-DYNA software, and 4-year on-site wind monitoring, suggests that seismic activity from the nearby East Anatolian Fault zone is a plausible cause for the observed damage patterns. Findings also propose anastylosis/strengthening methods to mitigate further deterioration.

Revised chronology of the youngest volcanoes of the chaîne des puys (french Massif central)

Chaîne des Puys - Limagne fault tectonic arena — 2012 — WHE1064CE9C58

A revised chronology of the youngest volcanoes in the Chaîne des Puys, French Massif Central, reveals that a period of active volcanism—characterized by two to three eruptions per millennium—ended around 7,000 years ago. This marks the conclusion of a volcanic cycle initiated approximately 80,000 years prior, involving deep magma reservoirs and shallow chamber differentiation. The study, using tephrostratigraphy, thermoluminescence dating, and radiocarbon dating, also corrected previously assumed relative chronologies between volcanoes like Pariou and Chopine while identifying previously unknown eruptions. These findings provide critical insights into the Upper Pleistocene and Holocene volcanism of the region.

Riding the storm: ‘new Istanbul’

Historic Areas of Istanbul — 2012 — WHE73A6D00289

Istanbul faces a critical urban dilemma where real-estate-driven growth, aimed at global economic expansion and improved living standards, threatens its historic identity, social inclusivity, and ecological balance. This study highlights how the city's transformation into a fragmented megacity—marked by gated communities, residential complexes, and tourist zones—erodes its public character, turning historic districts into mono-functional 'dead spaces.' The research argues that for Istanbul to retain its inclusive, diverse nature, civic actors must develop a new critical politics capable of steering real-estate growth toward the common good. This involves balancing popular support for economic development with the preservation of Istanbul's cultural and social openness, akin to navigating a storm caused by the 'new Istanbul.'

Ritual Black Drink consumption at Cahokia

Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site — 2012 — WHE2D230AF8DF

Chemical analysis of pottery fragments from Cahokia Mounds and surrounding sites in Illinois has revealed biomarkers for Ilex (holly) species, indicating the consumption of Black Drink—a ritually significant caffeine-laced beverage—between A.D. 1050 and 1250. This discovery marks the first evidence of Ilex use beyond its historic range, suggesting that Cahokia’s inhabitants sustained a ritual practice involving this southern plant. The study identified theobromine, caffeine, and ursolic acid in beaker vessels, linking them to the preparation and consumption of Black Drink, which was historically documented for its purifying properties among men in the American Southeast.

Rituals and the Construction of Identity in Attalid Pergamon

Pergamon and its Multi-Layered Cultural Landscape — 2012 — WHEE9E10CF34D

Recent scholarly work on Attalid Pergamon has often depicted the dynasty's creation of a mythical past as entirely artificial, lacking genuine historical and religious memory. However, this study challenges that notion by analyzing individual Pergamene rituals and their contradictions, revealing a more nuanced interplay between Greek and non-Greek influences in religious life. The research identifies factors that prompted the Attalid kings to favor certain deities and heroes while highlighting constraints on imposing their own preferences. By examining the broader context of religious activities beyond royal ambitions, this work sheds light on the complex dynamics of identity construction in Pergamon.

Rock Art in the Casas Grandes Region: Report of Seven New Sites and a Review of the Literature

Archaeological Zone of Paquimé, Casas Grandes — 2012 — WHE304945D971

A significant advancement in the documentation of rock art in the Casas Grandes region, Mexico, has been made with the identification and description of seven new sites. This study builds upon early observations by Adolph Bandelier in 1884 and Carl Lumholtz in 1891, who first recorded rock art in northern Chihuahua. The research combines historical literature review with fieldwork to contribute previously unknown pictographs and petroglyphs to the regional record. Bandelier's original sketches, unpublished until now, provide the earliest visual evidence of rock art in this area. The study also highlights the role of local knowledge, such as that shared by Mormon families with Lumholtz, in locating these sites. While earlier expeditions, including the 1958 Casas Grandes Joint Expedition, noted some rock art sites, this work expands the catalog significantly and sets a new benchmark for understanding the cultural significance of rock art in the region.

Rock fall dynamics and deposition: an integrated analysis of the 2009 Ahwiyah Point rock fall, Yosemite National Park, USA

Yosemite National Park — 2012 — WHEB3FD405777

A comprehensive analysis of the 2009 Ahwiyah Point rock fall in Yosemite National Park revealed that large, energetic rock falls tend to flatten talus slopes, contrary to the steepening effect observed with smaller boulder accumulations. The study integrated airborne and terrestrial LiDAR, high-resolution photography, seismic, and acoustic data to reconstruct the event, which involved a 46,700 m³ rock block that fell 730 meters, triggering secondary impacts and remobilizing existing talus. Dynamic compaction of pulverized debris was identified as a key factor in the lower porosity of fresh talus compared to typical blocky talus slopes. Additionally, seismic and acoustic instruments proved effective for monitoring rock fall events, highlighting their potential for generalized rock fall surveillance.

Role of fisheries and ecosystem-based management: Shiretoko, Japan

Shiretoko — 2012 — WHE9B30493CC4

Shiretoko, Japan's northeastern Hokkaido peninsula and surrounding marine areas, exemplifies successful integration of fisheries management with ecosystem conservation. The 'Shiretoko Approach' demonstrates how local fishing communities, through autonomous measures under a co-management framework, contribute significantly to sustainable fisheries without being excluded post-World Heritage inscription. This approach expanded fisheries co-management into ecosystem-based management (EBM), ensuring the preservation of Shiretoko's unique terrestrial and marine ecosystems, including endangered species. The region's rich biodiversity stems from complex oceanographic currents, including cold and warm water interactions that support seasonal sea ice. By placing local practices at the core of conservation efforts, this model offers a blueprint for balancing human activities with ecological sustainability in protected areas.

Role-Play Gaming Simulation For Flood Management On Cultural Heritage: A Case Study Of Ayutthaya Historic City

Historic City of Ayutthaya — 2012 — WHE8131CE9927

Role-play gaming simulations effectively enhance public awareness and collaboration for flood management on cultural heritage, as demonstrated by a case study of Ayutthaya Historic City. The methodology, developed from existing data and role-playing techniques, improves understanding of flood impacts and fosters cooperation among government, private, and public sectors. This approach serves as a tool to deepen knowledge about participatory flood management, offering a practical solution for preserving cultural heritage in flood-prone areas.

Rôles des mangroves, modes et perspectives de gestion au Delta du Saloum (Sénégal)

Saloum Delta — 2012 — WHE82C01FD9E7

Mangroves in the Saloum Delta, Senegal, play critical ecological and socioeconomic roles but face significant threats from environmental changes and mismanagement. This study highlights their vulnerability to degradation, which disrupts essential functions such as spawning grounds, habitats, and ecological niches. Socioeconomically, mangroves serve as a lifeline for coastal communities, yet divergent interests among stakeholders complicate conservation efforts. Challenges include fragmented sectorial management, lack of harmonized protection measures, and the absence of localized codes of conduct. The research underscores the need for integrated management strategies, including the transfer of fishing competencies to local actors, development of forest management plans, and promotion of cross-border cogestion to align ecological and sociocultural continuity.

Roman Architecture in Provence

Arles, Roman and Romanesque Monuments — 2012 — WHE28E2DBB4F1

Roman Architecture in Provence reveals the sophisticated urban planning and architectural innovations of Gallia Narbonensis, one of Rome's earliest Western European colonies. The study provides a comprehensive analysis of Roman-era towns, including those founded by Romans and those adapted from native settlements, with a focus on visible remains such as bridges, theaters, fora, and temples in cities like Orange, Nimes, and Arles. Anderson examines the chronology, dating, and decorative elements of these structures, highlighting their functional roles within urban environments while also exploring the interplay between Roman influences and local traditions. This work offers a detailed survey of Provence's architectural heritage from the imperial period to late antiquity.

Rome 1976-1985: a cultural policy in the international comparison

Historic Centre of Rome, the Properties of the Holy See in that City Enjoying Extraterritorial Rights and San Paolo Fuori le Mura — 2012 — WHEBA9EBC48A9

This study highlights the innovative cultural policy implemented in Rome between 1976 and 1985, led by Renato Nicolini, former cultural commissioner of the Rome municipality. The approach emphasized democratic access to culture, blending diverse genres and audiences at low cost, while challenging traditional models of cultural decentralization. It proposed the historic center of Rome as a shared space for fostering urban identity amid social unrest. The research draws on Nicolini's speech from a 1984 conference, comparing Italian and U.S. cultural policies to identify key typological elements, such as public-private partnerships and the role of government as a catalyst rather than a direct funder. The study underscores the potential for ephemeral cultural initiatives to upgrade demand and pave the way for more permanent infrastructure renewal.

Romuliana (Gamzigrad, Serbia)

Gamzigrad-Romuliana, Palace of Galerius — 2012 — WHEDA259A684F

Gamzigrad, a fourth-century CE fortified villa complex attributed to the Roman emperor Galerius, stands as a monumental testament to Roman architectural ingenuity. Located in eastern Serbia's Black Timok Valley, the site features two rows of ramparts (300 m × 200 m) with 20 round towers, enclosing structures such as a palace, temples, a horreum (granary), thermae (baths), and other associated buildings. A key discovery is that this monumental phase was preceded by an earlier third-century corridor-style villa, indicating a significant evolution in architectural design and urban planning over the century. The study highlights Gamzigrad's strategic importance and its role as a symbol of Roman power during Galerius' reign.

Routledge Handbook of Heritage in Asia

Town of Luang Prabang — 2012 — WHED5654F712C

The Routledge Handbook of Heritage in Asia reveals the complex interplay between heritage conservation, politics, and globalization in Asian contexts. It highlights how cultural memory, religious shifts, and colonial legacies shape heritage management practices, often leading to conflicts between preservation efforts and local identities. The handbook also underscores the need for specialized conservation expertise and examines the political dimensions of heritage, including its role in nation-building and intangible cultural heritage safeguarding. Through case studies from across Asia, it explores how modernity and globalization challenge traditional heritage narratives while offering pathways for sustainable preservation.

Rural livelihood diversification: A household adaptive strategy against flood variability in the Okavango Delta, Botswana

Okavango Delta — 2012 — WHE9D16706F23

Livelihood diversification emerges as a critical adaptive strategy for households in the Okavango Delta, Botswana, to mitigate flood variability. A survey of 623 households across five villages, supplemented by focus group discussions and key informant interviews, revealed that diversifying income sources significantly enhances resilience against flooding. However, public transfers dominate household incomes, highlighting the region's socio-economic vulnerabilities and exposure to multiple shocks beyond climate variability. While current strategies may suffice for present flood patterns, they are likely insufficient for future global climate change, underscoring the need for broader adaptive measures.

Rural livelihoods and household adaptation to desiccation in the Okavango Delta, Botswana

Okavango Delta — 2012 — WHE62242C3B2E

Desiccation of river channels in the Okavango Delta, Botswana, significantly disrupts rural livelihoods, with households employing adaptive strategies such as livestock relocation and diversification. However, land use changes and institutional constraints limit their effectiveness. The study highlights that while households respond to desiccation by shifting cultivation practices and digging water sources, they often fail to fully capitalize on emerging opportunities. This suggests a need for systemic improvement in adaptation strategies to mitigate the impacts of climate variability and change, not only in Botswana but also in other developing regions.

Saberes, fazeres e natureza nas vozes de mulheres da Chapada dos Veadeiros"‘Goiás

Cerrado Protected Areas: Chapada dos Veadeiros and Emas National Parks — 2012 — WHE5F3E548A70

A study of women's voices from the Chapada dos Veadeiros, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Brazil, reveals the complex interplay between tradition and modernity in the region. The research highlights how preservation efforts and ecological tourism have shaped the landscape, while also exposing historical conflicts tied to land use changes. By analyzing oral histories, the study underscores the tensions between conservation goals and local practices, particularly the decline of the Cerrado biome. It provides insight into the social dynamics that have influenced environmental policies in this biodiverse region since the 1960s.

Sacred mountains and national parks: spiritual and cultural values as a foundation for environmental conservation

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park — 2012 — WHE9BA82F7985

Sacred natural sites, such as mountains, hold profound spiritual and cultural significance that can serve as a powerful foundation for sustainable environmental conservation. This study highlights how reverence for sacred landscapes—like Hawaii's volcanic systems—can inspire long-term public support for biodiversity protection by engaging deep-seated values beyond mere scientific or economic justifications. Unlike conventional conservation approaches, which often rely on monetary valuation, this research emphasizes the importance of integrating spiritual, cultural, and aesthetic dimensions to foster enduring commitment from both indigenous communities and secular societies. By analyzing sacred mountains as microcosms of diverse ecosystems, the study demonstrates their potential to bridge cultural perspectives and rally global support for environmental stewardship.

Saint Sergius of Radonezh, his Trinity Monastery, and the Formation of the Russian Identity. By DAVID B. MILLER. * The Heart of Russia: Trinity-Sergius, Monasticism, and Society after 1825. By SCOTT M. KENWORTHY. * Spiritual Elders: Charisma and Tradition in Russian Orthodoxy. By IRINA PAERT.

Architectural Ensemble of the Trinity Sergius Lavra in Sergiev Posad — 2012 — WHE1706EC83F1

Recent scholarly works have significantly advanced understanding of Russian Christianity by leveraging newly accessible archival and biographical materials. These studies, centered on the Trinity-Sergius Lavra in Sergiev Posad, reveal its pivotal role in shaping Russian identity, monasticism, and societal dynamics from the 19th century onward. One study traces the monastery's rise to preeminence, while another examines its evolving influence post-1825. A third explores the significance of spiritual elders (starets) within its community and beyond, highlighting their charismatic leadership in Russian Orthodoxy. Together, these works challenge long-standing assumptions, offering nuanced insights into the interplay between religious institutions, tradition, and national identity.