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Publications

Showing 28161 – 28180 of 30315 publications

The New Chronology of Iron Age Gordion

Gordion — 2012 — WHE671C7B80E5

A significant reassessment of Gordion's Iron Age history reveals that the site was destroyed by fire around 800 B.C., not by invasion as previously believed. This challenges long-standing narratives since excavations began in the 1950s, suggesting a more nuanced understanding of the site's decline. The study combines archaeological evidence with chronological analysis to propose this revised timeline, offering new insights into the dynamics of ancient Anatolia.

The Norwegian reform of protected area management: a grand experiment with delegation of authority?

Vegaøyan – The Vega Archipelago — 2012 — WHEFEC55C5B03

Norway's 2009 reform of protected area management, which delegated authority to over 40 local management boards, significantly shifted the balance toward local user interests while likely reducing conflicts. The study examines how this 'grand experiment' in decentralization impacts long-term environmental goals, particularly in threatened areas like Vegaøyan – a UNESCO-listed Cultural Heritage Site with substantial environmental elements. By analyzing governance structures and stakeholder dynamics, researchers found that while local boards prioritize user needs, policy measures are needed to safeguard ecological integrity. The reform's implications for balancing local autonomy with conservation objectives highlight both its potential and challenges in protected area management.

The orientation of Trajan's town of Timgad

Timgad — 2012 — WHED10F1CFC63

A novel application of solar energy equations to archaeoastronomy reveals that Timgad, the Roman town founded by Emperor Trajan, was likely established during the first decade of September. This discovery leverages the sunrise amplitude equation, typically used in solar energy studies, to deduce the orientation of a town's main street based on its day of foundation. The research demonstrates how ancient urban planning may have aligned with celestial events, offering new insights into Roman architectural practices and chronological dating.

The pale mountain – a UNESCO World Heritage Site

The Dolomites — 2012 — WHEB316371A40

The Dolomites, known as the Pale Mountains, achieved UNESCO World Heritage status in 2009, marking a significant milestone for their recognition as a natural treasure. This distinction highlights the region's unique geological and cultural significance, home to iconic landmarks such as Dòna Dindia, Ey de Net, Dolasilla, and King Laurin. The journey toward this status underscores the importance of preserving such diverse and culturally rich landscapes. The study reflects on the historical process and implications of this recognition, emphasizing the Dolomites' global importance in conservation efforts.

The Paradox of Regret: Remembering and Forgetting the History of Slavery in George W. Bush's Gorée Island Address

Island of Gorée — 2012 — WHE6E08016AD2

State actors' ceremonial statements of regret, while seemingly lacking tangible outcomes compared to traditional reconciliation efforts, significantly influence public perceptions of historical justice and democratic virtue. President George W. Bush's 2007 address on Gorée Island serves as a case study revealing the paradoxical nature of such rhetoric—balancing moral remembrance with political pragmatism. The analysis demonstrates how ceremonial lamentations are strategically employed to bolster geopolitical legitimacy, despite their inherent limitations in addressing past wrongs effectively.

The paraty artisanal fishery (southeastern Brazilian coast): ethnoecology and management of a social-ecological system (SES)

Paraty and Ilha Grande – Culture and Biodiversity — 2012 — WHEAD72A0DD94

A study on the Paraty artisanal fishery in southeastern Brazil reveals that integrating local ecological knowledge with scientific data can enhance fisheries management. The research highlights the potential of combining fishing periods with closed seasons ('defeso system') to conserve fish stocks, particularly during critical reproductive seasons for key species like snook and grouper. Additionally, it suggests that diversifying fishermen's income through tourism could improve compliance with conservation measures. The study employed systematic surveys in Tarituba and Praia Grande, collecting catch data and analyzing gonads of target species over four days each month. This approach not only provides insights into the historical context and economic importance of fishing but also identifies existing management processes that can be leveraged for sustainable practices.

The Personal Adventures and Experiences of a Magistrate during the Rise, Progress, and Suppression of the Indian Mutiny

Agra Fort — 2012 — WHE5825B177E3

Mark Thornhill's firsthand account of the Indian Mutiny (1857) provides unique insights into the historical and psychological dynamics of conflict, while also highlighting conservationist concerns about architectural damage. His narrative, published in 1884, details a perilous night ride to Agra Fort through rebel territory, offering a vivid portrayal of the tensions within the fort during this turbulent period. Thornhill's work not only served as a source for literary adaptations like J.G. Farrell's The Siege of Krishnapur but also contributed to historical analysis by examining the underlying causes of the Mutiny and its lasting impact on the region. Additionally, his observations on Agra's history and architecture, from Babur's era onward, along with his inclusion of ghost stories—culminating in a separate volume of Indian fairy tales—demonstrate a modern approach to understanding violence and its effects.

The Philippeion at Olympia: The True Image of Philip?

Archaeological Site of Olympia — 2012 — WHEBE33CE6F9A

The Philippeion at Olympia, traditionally viewed as a victory monument and a display of Philip II of Macedonia's authority, aligns with his propaganda program after the Battle of Chaeronea (336 BC). This study reveals that the structure's message was adaptable to the varying perceptions of Greek peoples and Macedonian viewers, effectively negotiating Philip's royal status. By examining the Philippeion's context and program, the research sheds light on how Philip reconciled his role as Hegemon of the League of Corinth with traditional Macedonian kingship portrayals. The study also explores the differing responses of Greek communities to Philip's propaganda, providing insights into the complexities of his political strategy.

The Placement and Chronological Sequence of the Stelae from Assur

Ashur (Qal'at Sherqat) — 2012 — WHE1BDCA0A770

Research at Ashur (Qal'at Sherqat) reveals that the form, content, size, and placement of stelae inscriptions changed concurrently, enabling reliable chronological differentiation, particularly between those predating and postdating the reign of Tukultī-Ninurta I. This breakthrough improves distinctions among homonymous eponyms and provides historical context for many stelae. The study suggests that new petrographic investigations and 3D documentation could further resolve remaining questions.

The Political and Artistic Program of Prince Petru Rares of Moldavia (1527-1538 and 1541-1546) and the Fresco Series Depicting the “Life of the Mother of God” in the Church of Humor Monastery

Churches of Moldavia — 2012 — WHE3A2FC987EB

A groundbreaking analysis reveals that the fresco series depicting the 'Life of the Mother of God' in Humor Monastery, Romania, represents an extraordinary fusion of iconography and theological texts, specifically the Protévangile de Jacques and the Synaxarion. This integration transcends typical 16th-century artistic canons, offering a unique lens to understand post-Constantinople (1453) Moldavian religious and cultural evolution. The study highlights Prince Petru Rares' patronage as a catalyst for architectural and artistic innovation during his rule (1527–1538 and 1541–1546), emphasizing the monastery's role as a hub of creativity. By correlating textual sources with visual elements, this research bridges theology, art history, and political context, enriching our appreciation of UNESCO-listed Eastern European Christian heritage.

The post-political ecology of protected areas: nature, social justice and political conflicts in the Galápagos Islands

Galápagos Islands — 2012 — WHE47E9298DD6

Conservation efforts in the Galápagos Islands, while driven by scientific imperatives and moral urgencies, often suppress political debate, creating a 'post-political' condition that marginalizes social justice concerns. This study reveals how alliances between conservation science, state authorities, and tourism industries have shaped the archipelago's governance, leading to violent conflicts in the 1990s. These clashes prompted reforms toward sustainability, yet persistent tensions highlight the challenges of balancing environmental protection with equitable outcomes. The research employs political ecology frameworks to analyze these dynamics, offering insights into the broader struggles of reconciling biodiversity conservation with social justice in protected areas.

The Prediction of Adaptive Evolution: Empirical Application of the Secondary Theorem of Selection and Comparison to the Breeder’s Equation

St Kilda — 2012 — WHECEFBF33D8F

Despite strong selection pressures favoring larger body size, Soay sheep on St. Kilda are not evolving to increase in size, contrary to predictions from the breeder's equation (BE). This discrepancy suggests that unmeasured factors may be inflating estimates of phenotypic selection. Researchers applied both the BE and Robertson's secondary theorem of selection (STS) to analyze four morphological traits in Soay sheep, finding that while the BE predicted increasing size, the STS did not. The study highlights a potential general issue with naive evolutionary predictions in natural populations and suggests the STS as a tool to address this problem.

The Problem of a Site Museum for Pasargadae World Heritage Site (Iran)*

Pasargadae — 2012 — WHE278E72F7B1

Pasargadae, the ancient capital of Cyrus the Great and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2004, presents unique challenges for heritage management due to its contested cultural landscape. This study proposes a conceptual framework for establishing a site museum that navigates ideological tensions such as nationalism and state Islamism while acknowledging local nomadic and sedentary lifestyles. By focusing on the notion of 'place,' the research offers a methodological approach to interpret Pasargadae's significance, balancing its role as a symbol of Persian identity, pilgrimage site, and political dissent. This framework could serve as a model for similar heritage sites facing complex politico-cultural dynamics.

The Reception of Thomas Aquinas’ Philosophy in the Dominican studia of the Roman Province in the Fourteenth Century

Historic Centre of Avignon: Papal Palace, Episcopal Ensemble and Avignon Bridge — 2012 — WHE10AAAA4E29

A significant portion of later medieval Scholastic literature, including the works of renowned figures like Albert the Great and Thomas Aquinas, was produced in the studia or study-houses of religious orders rather than universities. These studia, more numerous and widely distributed across Europe, served as primary institutional settings for Scholastic learning in philosophy and theology during this period. The research highlights that prominent Scholastic masters often taught in both studia and other significant intellectual hubs such as the Papal Court at Avignon and various royal courts. This volume, stemming from a colloquium on medieval philosophy, explores the study and teaching of philosophy and theology in these diverse institutional contexts, offering insights into the reception of Thomas Aquinas’ philosophy within the Dominican studia of the Roman Province during the fourteenth century.

The Red City: Medina of Marrakesh, Morocco

Medina of Marrakesh — 2012 — WHE4625CAF877

Marrakesh, known as the 'Red City,' stands out as one of Morocco's most significant historic medinas, encompassing 640 hectares with its ramparts, gates, monuments, gardens, markets, and a thriving craft industry. It serves as a cultural hub, particularly through Jamaâ El Fna square, which acts as an interface between the Medina and the broader urban area, fostering integration among diverse populations. The study highlights the Medina's demographic importance, housing 17.17% of Marrakesh's population (182,637 inhabitants) and representing a quarter of Morocco's old city dwellers. This research underscores the Medina's role in preserving heritage while mediating cultural exchange, contributing to its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The relocation of the village of Arkwasiye in the Simien Mountain National Park in Ethiopia: an intervention towards sustainable development?

Simien National Park — 2012 — WHE8756ACFE6D

Relocation of the village Arkwasiye to Kayit in Ethiopia's Simien Mountains National Park, intended as part of conservation efforts by UNESCO, led to mixed outcomes. While villagers reported satisfaction with new infrastructures and services, the move resulted in significant economic drawbacks, including loss of earning opportunities and increased grazing pressures—contradicting the intervention's goals. The study highlights that relocation for conservation must be closely monitored and accompanied by tailored strategies to ensure sustainable development. It offers five recommendations based on these findings.

The Renaissance Studs of the Gonzagas of Mantua

Mantua and Sabbioneta — 2012 — WHEB2AA43D382

The Gonzagas of Mantua demonstrated how horse breeding could be strategically integrated with politics and diplomacy, achieving international renown for their studs. Their success stemmed from a meticulous approach to stock selection, rigorous breeding policies, and diplomatic alliances that secured prized horses while also supplying them to other rulers. Unlike mere chance, their fame in the palio (Italian horse racing) was the result of deliberate planning, including the construction of a grand staircase in the Palazzo Ducale to facilitate direct access for horses. This study highlights how the Gonzagas leveraged equine excellence as both an economic and political tool during the Renaissance.

The Robben Island diversity experience. An exploration of South African diversity dynamics

Robben Island — 2012 — WHECD514D39B8

A unique exploration of South African diversity dynamics revealed five key themes—crossing boundaries, engaging the brave new world, ties that bind, being imprisoned, and the struggle—through a systems psychodynamic lens. The study analyzed experiences from participants in the Robben Island Diversity Experience (RIDE), the only annual event designed with this perspective. Using qualitative hermeneutic phenomenology, researchers interviewed 15 attendees and content-analyzed their responses to uncover unconscious dynamics shaping diversity perceptions. This work contributes critical insights for diversity management interventions, highlighting how deeper psychological factors influence organizational dynamics in South Africa.

The role of cult and feasting in the emergence of Neolithic communities. New evidence from Göbekli Tepe, south-eastern Turkey

Göbekli Tepe — 2012 — WHEC8F76A5039

Göbekli Tepe, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most significant archaeological discoveries, challenges the conventional timeline for the emergence of monumental architecture by predating the advent of agriculture. New evidence suggests that hunter-gatherer communities congregated at this site during the dawn of the Neolithic era, engaging in social and ideological cohesion through the carving of decorated pillars, communal feasting, and likely the consumption of fermented beverages such as beer. This research, based on ongoing excavations, offers a fresh perspective on the role of cultic practices and large-scale gatherings in shaping early human societies, providing insight into the cultural and ritualistic behaviors that may have laid the groundwork for complex Neolithic communities.

The role of intangible assets in the conservation of Bam and its cultural landscape as a World Heritage site

Bam and its Cultural Landscape — 2012 — WHE66EC49F13C

Bam's Citadel, the world's largest mud-brick structure, retains its authenticity and integrity even after surviving a devastating 2003 earthquake, contributing significantly to its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Beyond its tangible architecture, Bam's intangible heritage—such as the legend of Haftvad, Silk Road connections, and rituals tied to Imam Zaman and Ashura—plays a crucial role in its cultural significance. While traditional conservation focuses on pragmatic restoration of physical structures, preserving intangible elements requires more nuanced approaches. This study highlights the interplay between Bam's architectural heritage and its intangible assets, emphasizing the need for sophisticated methods to safeguard both aspects to fully appreciate the site's cultural importance.