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The diversity of plant resources exploited in the palaces of Agbomè (kingdom of Danxomè/Dahomey), Bénin: the contribution of starch grain analysis from the palatial complex of Zasa (eighteenth to twentieth centuries AD)

Royal Palaces of Abomey — 2025 — WHE58B3368D86

Starch grain analysis from the Zasa palatial complex in Agbomè, Bénin, reveals that cereals, legumes, and tubers formed a significant part of the diet in the Danxomè kingdom (18th–20th centuries AD), alongside non-local resources like maize and wheat. This study provides the first detailed archaeobotanical evidence of plant resource exploitation in royal palaces, complementing existing knowledge on animal consumption. By analyzing stone tools and ceramics, researchers identified a diverse range of plants used for food and potential medical practices. Cross-referencing with oral and written sources further enriched the interpretation, offering insights into dietary habits, craft production, and cultural practices during this pivotal period in West African history.

The Dominant and Nondominant Hands

Cueva de las Manos, Río Pinturas — 2025 — WHE47BCEDE1EF

A striking majority (91%) of hand stencils in the Cueva de las Manos, Argentinadepict left hands, suggesting that the artists were predominantly right-handed. This discovery, based on a 30-year analysis of 360 hand stencils by Carlos Gradin, reveals that the paintings, created between 7,300 BCE and 700 CE using bone tubes to blow pigment, reflect a consistent cultural preference for tool use with the dominant hand. The left-handed bias in stencils provides rare insight into the handedness of early South American societies, reinforcing the symbolic and religious significance of these ancient artworks.

The earliest development of the Vilnius Franciscan Church and monastery area

Vilnius Historic Centre — 2025 — WHEFE7D1E0461

Recent archaeological excavations, including those conducted in 2023, have provided new insights into the chronology and earliest development of the Vilnius Franciscan Church and monastery area. This study challenges previous broad dating estimates, which ranged from the early 14th to the beginning of the 15th century, by integrating radiocarbon dating, analysis of archaeobotanical remains, and architectural research. The findings suggest a more precise timeline for human activity in this territory, contributing significantly to our understanding of the evolution of Vilnius' Catholic community and its urban landscape during the late Middle Ages.

The Earliest Inhabitants

Ancient Jericho/Tell es-Sultan — 2025 — WHE0F4AABC5DB

Ancient Jericho, one of the oldest continuously inhabited sites on Earth, reveals a complex layers of human occupation spanning millennia. Excavations at Tell es-Sultan have uncovered eleven successive cities built atop one another, providing unprecedented insights into the evolution of early human settlements in the region. The study highlights the presence of non-Semitic inhabitants during the later Stone Age, characterized by unique burial practices such as cremation and the construction of megalithic monuments like menhirs, cromlechs, and dolmens. These findings challenge traditional narratives about the earliest inhabitants of Palestine, suggesting a more diverse and sophisticated civilization than previously assumed. The research draws on extensive archaeological investigations conducted by prominent figures such as Flinders Petrie and James Macalister, integrating historical, religious, and scientific perspectives to reconstruct the site's rich history.

The early Acheulean site of Gombore I level B (Melka Kunture, Ethiopia): Archaeological assemblage integrity and spatial distribution patterns

Melka Kunture and Balchit: Archaeological and Palaeontological Sites in the Highland Area of Ethiopia — 2025 — WHEF7DAC40D12

Research at Gombore I, Level B (Melka Kunture, Ethiopia) reveals that the Early Acheulean site preserves a palimpsest of hominin activity alongside natural processes. Analysis of stone tools and bones shows anisotropic distributions indicative of fluvial reorganisation, yet spatial arrangements suggest partial retention of original relationships. While tools are primarily anthropogenic, bone accumulations appear mixed in origin, complicating interpretations of site function. The study underscores the need for multidisciplinary methods to reconstruct behavioural and taphonomic dynamics at open-air Early Stone Age sites in East Africa.

The east Redemption Window in Canterbury Cathedral: a pastoral reflection

Canterbury Cathedral, St Augustine's Abbey, and St Martin's Church — 2025 — WHE5E807B4E4A

A pastoral reflection on the medieval stained-glass east window of Canterbury Cathedral reveals its profound symbolism, offering insights into its religious and historical significance. The study examines the intricate details of the window, particularly focusing on the Redemption Window, to uncover its deeper meanings and cultural impact. Through a combination of art historical analysis and theological interpretation, the research highlights how this iconic feature of Canterbury Cathedral serves as both an artistic masterpiece and a spiritual beacon. This approach provides a fresh perspective on the intersection of faith, symbolism, and medieval craftsmanship.

The Eclectic Visual Culture of Medieval Moldavia

Churches of Moldavia — 2025 — WHE092586A19B

A new monograph by Alice Isabella Sullivan reveals the eclectic visual culture of late medieval Moldavia, showcasing its unique blend of artistic influences across extensively painted churches. Eight of these churches are part of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, highlighting their cultural significance and architectural diversity. The study examines how Moldavian art integrated Byzantine, Western European, and local traditions, creating a distinct visual identity. Sullivan's comprehensive analysis draws on historical records, iconographic studies, and comparative art history to uncover the region's artistic evolution during this period.

The Effect of Implemented Heritage Building Projects On Outstanding Universal Value: The Case of Erbil Citadel

Erbil Citadel — 2025 — WHEFEE6DD003F

Rehabilitation projects at Erbil Citadel have demonstrated a statistically significant positive impact on its Outstanding Universal Value (OUV), enhancing both authenticity and integrity. This finding underscores the potential for conservation efforts, when aligned with international standards, to not only preserve but also strengthen OUV. The study employed a mixed-method approach, combining quantitative expert evaluations with qualitative content analysis, guided by the Nara Grid and UNESCO operational guidelines. A virtual tour of three distinct rehabilitation projects served as the basis for structured questionnaires, revealing that both tangible and intangible aspects must be addressed collaboratively to maintain OUV. This research highlights the complementary nature of authenticity and integrity in heritage preservation.

The Effect of Service Quality and Heritage Tourism on Tourist Loyalty: The Case of Borobudur Temple

Borobudur Temple Compounds — 2025 — WHE15ED791ACD

Tourist loyalty to Borobudur Temple is significantly influenced by service quality and price, with responsiveness and tangibles playing key roles. A study of 248 domestic and international visitors found that high satisfaction from responsive service and competitive pricing directly enhances loyalty. While communication quality impacts satisfaction, tangible elements like physical infrastructure are crucial for fostering long-term visitor attachment. These insights suggest that refining service delivery—particularly in responsiveness and price management—could boost Borobudur’s appeal as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, aligning with its potential to rival destinations like Angkor Wat.

The effectiveness of molecular genetic methods in the study of herbarium and archeobotanical specimens

Architectural Ensemble of the Trinity Sergius Lavra in Sergiev Posad — 2025 — WHE2FBDB02A44

Molecular genetic analysis demonstrates the feasibility of extracting and comparing DNA from herbarium specimens and 15th-century archaeobotanical remains, paving the way for future ancient DNA studies. Researchers successfully amplified identical chloroplast spacer regions (psbK-psbI and trnL-trnF) in both modern herbarium samples from the VIR collection and ancient grain samples from St. Sergius Trinity Lavra's excavation site. The study overcame challenges in nucleic acid extraction, validating protocols that could be applied to other fossil plant materials. This breakthrough bridges gaps between historical botany and genetic analysis, offering new avenues for studying preserved plant DNA in UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The Effects of Microbial Water Pollution of Lake Ohrid on Human Health in the Pogradec Region

Natural and Cultural Heritage of the Ohrid region — 2025 — WHE08CC9EE381

Suboptimal microbial water quality in recreational bathing areas of Lake Ohrid, particularly around Pogradec, poses significant public health risks during peak tourist seasons. This study directly links microbial pollution to potential health implications, highlighting the urgent need for improved sanitary monitoring and preventive measures. Conducted across four sampling stations in the Albanian shoreline from 2022-2023, the research focuses on areas frequently used by locals and tourists. Findings underscore the broader impacts of water quality degradation on Lake Ohrid's economy, tourism, and public health, emphasizing the necessity for stricter enforcement of environmental laws to mitigate risks associated with eutrophication and other anthropogenic pressures.

The Efforts of Sawahlunto MSMEs in Preserving Batik as A Symbol of Beauty, Philosophy, And National Identity

Ombilin Coal Mining Heritage of Sawahlunto — 2025 — WHED9001585D0

Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Sawahlunto play a pivotal role in preserving Sawahlunto Charcoal Batik as a cultural heritage, symbolizing beauty, philosophy, and national identity. This study reveals that MSMEs, supported by government programs like the Community Service Program (KKN), have successfully transformed the historical context of coal mining into a source of pride and cultural preservation. Using descriptive qualitative methods, the research highlights their multifaceted contributions: as producers of identity, guardians of local philosophy, and agents of skill regeneration. The success in preserving motifs inspired by the Ombilin Sawahlunto Coal Mining Heritage (WTBOS) underscores their significance in balancing economic growth with cultural heritage conservation, thereby enhancing welfare while maintaining local identity.

The Emotional Foundations of Value Co-Creation in Sustainable Cultural Heritage Tourism: Insights into the Motivation–Experience–Behavior Framework

Classical Gardens of Suzhou — 2025 — WHE1EBB30BD1B

A key insight from this research is that emotional engagement significantly drives value co-creation behavior among tourists, particularly in sustainable cultural heritage tourism. The study reveals that self-enhancement motivation enhances aesthetic, nostalgic, and flow experiences, while escapism mainly promotes nostalgic and flow experiences, and social interaction primarily affects aesthetic experience. This was determined through an analysis of 470 valid responses from visitors to the UNESCO-listed Suzhou Classical Gardens in China using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). The findings underscore the importance of emotional experiences in fostering sustainable tourism practices that balance visitor satisfaction with the long-term vitality of cultural heritage sites and local communities. This research advances the motivation–experience–behavior framework, providing practical implications for designing strategies that support broader sustainable development goals.

The End of the Egyptian New Kingdom in Colonial Nubia: New Perspectives on Sociocultural Transformations in the Middle Nile

Gebel Barkal and the Sites of the Napatan Region — 2025 — WHE348AFAA17D

New archaeological evidence from the Attab to Ferka region in Sudan challenges the notion of a 'Dark Age' following Egypt's colonial rule over Nubia. Remote sensing, surveys, and excavations reveal continued occupation between 1070 and 750 BCE, highlighting local resilience and innovation. Studies of settlement patterns and ceramics provide insights into sociocultural transformations during this period, complicating the traditional understanding of secondary states' emergence in Sudan. This research underscores the significance of previously marginalized regions in shaping cultural dynamics during the first millennium BCE.

The Establishment of the Beacon System in Korea's Middle and Late Medieval Periods and a Study on the Operation of Costal Beacons

Hwaseong Fortress — 2025 — WHE400D9BC34C

Korea's beacon system, established during the Goryeo and Joseon dynasties, operated as a critical military communication network for over 700 years despite repeated criticisms. The study reveals that the system's persistence stemmed from its symbolic significance—daily signals representing national peace and security—rather than just practical defense needs. It functioned not only as a frontline for diplomacy and frontier expansion but also as the foundation for legendary military victories, such as General Yi Sun-sin’s campaigns, and advanced defense systems like Hwaseong Fortress. The research traces its evolution from a four-torch system in 1149 to a five-torch system in 1419, highlighting its adaptability to threats from nomads and pirates while challenging historical undervaluation of its role.

The estimi of the Republic of Venice as a resource for studying social mobility in rural areas during the pre-industrial era

City of Vicenza and the Palladian Villas of the Veneto — 2025 — WHE2555B69863

Rural communities in the Republic of Venice, particularly those in Vicenza, offer unprecedented insights into social mobility during the pre-industrial era. Tax registers, known as 'estimi,' reveal detailed and precise data on social changes due to their annual revisions. These records, managed with significant local autonomy after Venice's control over the Mainland in the 15th century, provide a unique lens for analyzing social dynamics. The study leverages methodologies developed within the SMITE project to reconstruct mobility patterns, offering valuable evidence for understanding societal evolution in rural areas during this period.

The evolution of an epidemic: age-period-cohort modelling of mesothelioma in Casale Monferrato, 1990–2021, with projections to 2042

Vineyard Landscape of Piedmont: Langhe-Roero and Monferrato — 2025 — WHEEF132C688D

A study projecting the future of mesothelioma incidence in Casale Monferrato, Italyreveals that the epidemic driven by asbestos exposure will decline steadily but persist until mid-century. Using Age-Period-Cohort (APC) models with data from 1990 to 2021, researchers estimated that cases will return to early 1990s levels by 2035 and drop further by 2042, despite the disease's long latency. The analysis highlighted higher environmental exposure risks for women, who accounted for 58% of non-occupational cases compared to 22% in men. Projections used three modeling approaches, all yielding consistent results, underscoring the need for continued surveillance due to the lingering health burden.

The Evolution of Visiting Olympia: From Ancient Pilgrims to the Threshold of Modern Tourism (ca. 1900)

Archaeological Site of Olympia — 2025 — WHEE9C39C4061

Olympia's transformation into a modern tourist destination was shaped by centuries of cultural, archaeological, and mobility developments. The study reveals that while ancient Olympia served as a proto-touristic center for pilgrimage and athletic events, its revival in the 19th century—driven by philhellenism, Grand Tour trends, and early excavations—laid the foundation for organized tourism. Key factors included standardized guidebooks, archaeological scholarship, national antiquities legislation, and expanding media networks, which collectively integrated Olympia into international tourist circuits by the 1890s. Improved transport links, the first museum, and the Olympic revival further cemented its status as a heritage site, with visitor growth in the early 21st century reflecting this historical evolution.

The Exhibition “Russian Tile” in the Novodevichy Convent (1980–1998). From the History of the Exhibiting of Architectural Ceramics Collection of the State Historical Museum

Ensemble of the Novodevichy Convent — 2025 — WHEC982735F74

A significant milestone in the exhibition history of Russian tile art, the 'Russian Tile' exhibition (1980–1998) held in the Novodevichy Convent's Choir Hall—then a branch of the State Historical Museum (SHM)—demonstrated the potential of architectural ceramics as both decorative and applied art. The exhibition showcased approximately 2,000 tiles, primarily from the SHM's collection, alongside other decorative objects and slides, offering a comprehensive presentation that advanced contemporary understandings of tile as a historical source. Analyzing unpublished archives from the museum's departments—Ceramics and Glass, Written Sources, and Accounting—Iordanskaya reveals how this exhibition shaped modern approaches to exhibiting and studying Russian tiles, bridging traditional and research-oriented perspectives.

The fight for climate at the World Heritage Committee: a case study

Wood Buffalo National Park — 2025 — WHEF169991CE5

Litigation within the World Heritage Committee can drive significant legislative, political, and social changes, as demonstrated by the case of Wood Buffalo National Park. This study reveals that strategic legal actions at the international level have tangible impacts on climate-related policies and protections. Employing a case study approach, researchers analyzed key actors—plaintiffs, defendants, and decision-making bodies—and their claims, including factual, material law, and procedural developments. The findings confirm an initial hypothesis that such litigation serves as a powerful catalyst for broader environmental reforms.