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The use of stable carbon isotopes in palaeoenvironmental studies in archaeology: the example of Arslantepe (Malatya, Eastern Anatolia) from 5300 to 3950 years BP

Arslantepe Mound — 2012 — WHE34DD7D4225

Stable carbon isotope analysis reveals that variations in plant use at Arslantepe Mound (Eastern Anatolia) between 5300 and 3950 years BP were likely influenced by environmental changes rather than solely cultural choices. The study analyzed charred and fresh wood samples, including deciduous Quercus and Juniperus, as well as caryopsis like Triticum dicoccon and Hordeum vulgare, to assess drought stress proxies (δ13C values). By comparing archaeological plant remains with modern samples from the same region, researchers found that environmental shifts—such as drought conditions—correlated with changes in plant selection over time. This approach offers a novel method to distinguish between human cultural adaptations and natural environmental variations, providing deeper insights into past human-plant interactions at UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The Virgin of Chartres: Making History through Liturgy and the Arts (review)

Chartres Cathedral — 2012 — WHE1995D12B58

Chartres Cathedral's Royal Portal sculptures, a cornerstone of Gothic art, are reinterpreted through the lens of liturgical innovation and political ambition. Margot E. Fassler's award-winning volume expands on her earlier work by grounding these sculptures in the cathedral's liturgical history, emphasizing the Virgin Mary's role as a symbol of divine incarnation and the bishop Fulbert's strategic cult development. The study reveals how Chartres' liturgy, centered around the Virgin, shaped its historical narrative and artistic expression, linking political power, theological evolution, and Marian devotion. Through meticulous analysis of sermons, chants, and architectural reconstruction, Fassler demonstrates the cathedral's enduring ability to create liturgically-based visions that reenacted its past, positioning Chartres as a pivotal site in medieval history.

The Vulnerability of Cities

Historic Bridgetown and its Garrison — 2012 — WHEA46D616E7C

Cities face disproportionate catastrophic impacts when disasters strike, with vulnerability shaped by local capacity and governance structures. A study of Bridgetown (Barbados), Georgetown (Guyana), and Santo Domingo (Dominican Republic) reveals that resilience depends on robust housing, disaster preparedness, infrastructure, and livelihoods, alongside strong partnerships between communities, NGOs, governments, and private sectors. These findings highlight best practices for urban disaster management, emphasizing the need for coordinated efforts to mitigate losses in rapidly urbanizing regions.

The Wieskirche: Movement, Perception, and Salvation in the Bavarian Rococo

Pilgrimage Church of Wies — 2012 — WHEAE1F8EC00A

The Wieskirche, a renowned Bavarian Rococo pilgrimage church, offers a unique lens to reexamine the often-overlooked religious architecture of 18th-century Europe. This study challenges contemporary perceptions of rococo design as excessive or lacking in restraint, instead highlighting its sophisticated treatment of interior space and spiritual symbolism. By focusing on the Wieskirche—designed collaboratively by Dominikus Zimmermann (architect) and his brother Johann Baptist Zimmermann (painter and stucco carver)—the research demonstrates how movement, perception, and salvation are intricately woven into its architectural and decorative elements. The study employs a multidisciplinary approach, drawing from art history, philosophy, and cultural analysis to revisit the Bavarian Rococo church typology, integrating recent scholarship on French rococo while addressing gaps in Anglo-American studies. It argues for a reevaluation of these structures as significant contributors to 18th-century art and aesthetics.

The world's deepest subterranean community - Krubera-Voronja Cave (Western Caucasus)

Western Caucasus — 2012 — WHE286E7D8571

An expedition to Krubera-Voronja Cave, the world's deepest cave at over 2140 meters, uncovered a previously unknown subterranean community of arthropods, including more than 12 species, some of which are new to science. This discovery challenges the notion that deep subterranean ecosystems are evolutionary dead ends, instead highlighting their role as shelters for epigean species during harsh surface conditions. The study also revealed the vertical distribution of invertebrate fauna, from the cave entrance to its deepest reaches, and identified the world's deepest dwelling arthropod. The research suggests that these deep ecosystems rely heavily on allochthonous organic carbon sources, such as water percolation and sinking streams, for their survival.

The Yabnal-Motul Ceramic Complex of the Late Classic Period at Chichen Itza

Pre-Hispanic City of Chichen-Itza — 2012 — WHE3CC9F0F269

A new ceramic complex, Yabnal-Motul, has been identified at Chichen Itza, dating to the Late Classic period and corresponding with the Motul ceramic complex of Mayapan. This discovery, based on extensive excavations across the site, reveals a rich variety of local and imported wares, including high-quality Slate Ware characterized by volcanic ash temper, which reflects a 600-year tradition in northern Yucatan. The study shifts focus from Terminal Classic to Postclassic ceramics, providing significant insights into Chichen Itza's chronology and its broader historical context within the northern plains.

Three Muslim Empires

Red Fort Complex — 2012 — WHE7AE3D75158

The three major Muslim empires of the early modern era—the Ottoman, Safavid, and Mughal—collectively represented a significant cultural and political entity within Islamic civilization. These empires, which dominated vast territories from North Africa to South Asia between 1453 and 1600, showcased architectural and artistic sophistication through landmarks like Istanbul's Aya Sophia, Isfahan's Maidan, Agra's Taj Mahal, and Delhi's Red Fort. They governed diverse populations of over 130 million people, with Mughal India being the wealthiest due to its extensive arable land and cotton trade. The empires shared a common Turkic heritage, encapsulated by terms like 'Turco-Mongol' and 'Perso-Islamic,' while exhibiting variations akin to contemporary European states. Despite their economic reliance on agriculture, they fostered significant manufacturing and commerce, though this was later challenged by European seaborne competition.

Thugga (Dougga)

Dougga / Thugga — 2012 — WHE6EC6047171

Thugga (Dougga) is renowned for its strategic location overlooking the Wadi Khaled Valley in modern Tunisia. This site offers significant insights into ancient urban planning and architecture, showcasing a blend of Punic, Roman, and Byzantine influences. The research highlights Thugga's historical importance as a center of culture, religion, and administration during antiquity. The study employs a comprehensive approach, integrating archaeological evidence with historical records to reconstruct the site's evolution over centuries. Key discoveries include well-preserved structures such as temples, theaters, and public baths, which provide a window into the daily life and governance of ancient Thugga.

Tidal-flat islands in Korea: Exploring biocultural diversity

Getbol, Korean Tidal Flats — 2012 — WHE507333D812

Korean tidal-flat islands, particularly those along the western and southern coasts, exhibit unique ecological and biocultural diversity. These islands are surrounded by extensive tidal flats, which serve as rich habitats for marine organisms and have significantly influenced local island cultures. The study highlights that Korea's maritime culture emerged from a harmonious spatial relationship between tidal flats and islands, shaped by human adaptation to the environment. This cultural structure is sustained by the preservation of ecosystem balance. The research integrates ecological, biological, and anthropological perspectives to explore these interactions, emphasizing the importance of understanding both natural processes and human activities in shaping island cultures.

Time and the Breathing City

Dorset and East Devon Coast — 2012 — WHED08884E679

The Dorset and East Devon Coast, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site 'Jurassic Coastline,' offers a unique lens to study geological time through its Portland stone quarry. This site serves as a 'time interface' in two distinct ways: it showcases the collision of an equatorial marine rock formation with local sedimentary rocks, altering erosion patterns and shaping the coastline; and it reveals a vertical slice through layered Portland stone, encoding alternating periods of forestation and shoreline formation. A multidisciplinary team, including a meteorologist, composer, and artist, explored these features to investigate complex systems in atmospheric science, material evidence, data, and embodied cognition. Their approach combined field observations with conceptual exploration, aiming to bridge scientific understanding with artistic interpretation.

Time Preference and Natural Resource Use by Local Communities: The Case of Sinharaja Forest in Sri Lanka

Sinharaja Forest Reserve — 2012 — WHE3E4E5F8CED

Poverty significantly drives higher rates of time preference (IRTP) among local communities, leading to increased harvesting of forest resources from Sinharaja. This study demonstrates that individuals with lower incomes prioritize immediate gains over long-term sustainability, resulting in greater exploitation of natural reserves. Using a simultaneous equation model, researchers found that addressing poverty in peripheral communities is crucial for effective long-term conservation strategies. The findings underscore the need for integrated approaches that combine economic interventions with environmental management to protect UNESCO-listed sites like Sinharaja.

Tiryns

Archaeological Sites of Mycenae and Tiryns — 2012 — WHE0C3742E785

Tiryns, one of the Mycenaean palatial centers closest to the sea, played a pivotal role as a major Mediterranean harbor during the Bronze Age. Geoarchaeological research by Eberhard Zangger reveals that the site's proximity to the coast has significantly changed over the Holocene due to massive sedimentation from soil erosion, with the shoreline in Mycenaean times positioned approximately halfway between its current location and Tiryns itself. This finding underscores Tiryns' strategic importance in long-distance exchange networks. Restoration works in the late 1950s, led by Nikolaos Verdelis, uncovered underground cisterns in the Lower Citadel, which spurred renewed archaeological interest and expanded excavation efforts to previously neglected areas, including the Lower Town.

Titelbild: Stahlbau 2/2012

Speicherstadt and Kontorhaus District with Chilehaus — 2012 — WHE44DCA38055

A new steel viaduct at Hamburg's Binnenhafen significantly enhances the urban landscape with its modern, transparent design, offering clear views into the historic Speicherstadt. The innovative steel construction allowed for rapid assembly of eight bridge segments, minimizing disruption to the U3 metro line during its installation. Recognized as 'Bauwerk des Jahres 2010' by the Architect and Engineer Association of Hamburg, this project demonstrates how contemporary engineering can seamlessly integrate with heritage contexts while optimizing functionality and aesthetic appeal.

Tlacotalpan, Patrimonio Cultural de la Humanidad

Historic Monuments Zone of Tlacotalpan — 2012 — WHE3E53E90D18

Tlacotalpan's recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998 marked it as Mexico's eighth urban ensemble to achieve this prestigious status, yet public understanding of the implications remains limited. The study highlights the significance of this designation while addressing gaps in awareness about its cultural and heritage impact. It employs qualitative analysis to elucidate the historical, architectural, and social dimensions of Tlacotalpan, offering insights into its global recognition as a testament to human creativity and tradition.

To dance or not to dance? Dogon masks as a tourist arena (Chapter 2)

Cliff of Bandiagara (Land of the Dogons) — 2012 — WHE500D8128BC

A key insight from this study is the tension between traditional Dogon mask dance practices and the commercialization of tourism, particularly in Tireli village at the foot of Mali's Bandiagara Cliff. The research reveals how the 'dancing rights' associated with Dogon masks have become a contested arena, shaped by both cultural preservation and economic incentives introduced since the 1980s. By analyzing tourist interactions and mask performances, the study highlights the impact of globalization on indigenous traditions, contrasting them with earlier anthropological narratives that romanticized Dogon culture without addressing its evolving dynamics.

To see or to be seen. The Dacian fortresses from the Orăștie Mountains

Dacian Fortresses of the Orastie Mountains — 2012 — WHEFFBA434BBA

The Dacian fortresses of the Orăștie Mountains, traditionally viewed as military structures designed to oversee and protect territory, also served as powerful symbols of elite ideology. These fortresses were not merely functional but embodied a visual manifestation of power, intended to project dominance through their architectural forms—such as walls, temples, and roads—to be seen by the populace. This dual role, balancing surveillance with symbolic display, challenges conventional interpretations that emphasize only their military function.

Too precious to drill: the marine biodiversity of Belize

Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System — 2012 — WHEDA70C32C3A

Belize's marine biodiversity, particularly within the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve Systemis under significant threat from potential offshore oil exploration and drilling. The study highlights that the reef system supports a vast array of marine life, including coastal dolphins, manatees, seabirds, elasmobranchs (sharks and rays), snapper and grouper assemblages, and endemic marine fishes, all of which could face severe impacts from oil spills and habitat disruption. Research approaches include species-specific threat assessments, ecosystem service evaluations, and economic analyses of fisheries and ecotourism to underscore the irreversible consequences of drilling on biodiversity, habitats like mangroves, and deep-sea corals. The findings advocate for stronger protection measures rather than additional pollution from offshore development.

Topographic and geological mapping in the prehistoric area of Melka Kunture (Ethiopia)

Melka Kunture and Balchit: Archaeological and Palaeontological Sites in the Highland Area of Ethiopia — 2012 — WHE3ACD403D23

Detailed topographic and geological mapping at Melka Kunture, Ethiopia, reveals critical insights into the site's palaeo-environmental evolution. Using 1m-resolution IKONOS-2 satellite imagery, researchers created high-precision maps (1:10,000 scale) that support archaeological investigations. The digital elevation model (DEM) and orthophotos enabled stereoscopic visualization, aiding in the identification of geological boundaries and geomorphological features. Differential GPS surveys ensured accuracy, while field checks validated interpretations. This approach provides essential cartographic tools for understanding the site's complex landscape history, bridging gaps between remote sensing and ground-based geological analysis.

Topographic change detection at select archeological sites in Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona, 2007-2010

Grand Canyon National Park — 2012 — WHEDCA49E4586

A study of topographic changes at select archaeological sites in Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona, between 2007 and 2010 reveals significant erosion and deposition, primarily driven by overland flow gullying and aeolian sand transport. Using terrestrial lidar techniques, researchers detected vertical changes as large as 50 cm and documented the erosion of over 100 m³ of sediment at one site. The findings indicate a predominant trend of erosion across all monitored sites, highlighting the rapid and dynamic nature of topographic change in this environment. This research provides critical data for managing archaeological resources and understanding the potential impacts of sediment-depleted flows from Glen Canyon Dam on site stability.

Total CO2 output from Vulcano island (Aeolian Islands, Italy)

Isole Eolie (Aeolian Islands) — 2012 — WHE877CDB9670

Vulcano Island, part of the UNESCO-listed Aeolian Islands, releases approximately 500 tons of CO2 daily through various sources including fumaroles, soil gas, and dissolved gases. The study, conducted during a period of moderate volcanic activity (September 2007), found that the summit area of La Fossa cone is the primary contributor, accounting for 91% of the total emissions—453 tons per day—with 362 tons from crater fumaroles and 91 tons from soil degassing. Peripheral areas contribute a smaller but significant amount (≈20 tons/day), comparable to CO2 dissolved in water (6 tons/day) and bubbling seawater (4 tons/day). The research used SO2 output measurements for fumarole emissions and an accumulation chamber method for soil gas, providing insights into the volcanic-hydrothermal system's mass release and thermal energy dynamics.