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Publications

Showing 3601 – 3620 of 15962 publications

Archaeological and Architectural Research at the Carolingian Monastery of Lorsch

Abbey and Altenmünster of Lorsch — 2024 — WHEDCC0EB907B

Recent archaeological and architectural research at the Carolingian Monastery of Lorsch challenges long-held theories about its development. Excavations across thirteen sites, combined with analysis of extant structures like the monastery's enclosing wall and church ruins, have revealed new insights into the evolution of monastic buildings, economic activities, and daily life during this period. The study also re-examined archival records from Friedrich Behn's extensive excavations (1927–1937), providing a deeper understanding of the site's history. This multidisciplinary approach offers a more nuanced perspective on Lorsch's significance as a medieval cultural center.

Archaeological Geophysics in China – A Historical Perspective

Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor — 2024 — WHE9A9B5E39C9

Archaeological geophysics has become indispensable in Chinese archaeology, enabling non-destructive detection and mapping of archaeological features with remarkable efficiency. Over the past 70 years, its development has mirrored advancements in geophysical technology, driven by both academic demand and economic growth. A pivotal moment occurred during the 2002–2003 survey at the Mausoleum of Qinshihuang, where a large-scale multi-geophysical project demonstrated unprecedented effectiveness in archaeological characterization. The study categorizes this evolution into four stages: embryonic (1950s–1980), initial (1980–2000), development (2000–2010), and internationalization (2010–present). Key applications now span ancient cities, tombs, cultural heritage preservation, urban underground remains, and underwater archaeology, solidifying geophysics as a standard tool for diverse archaeological interests in China.

Archaeological Prospection and Site Monitoring with Medium to Very High Resolution SAR Imagery: Case Studies in Rome (Italy)

Historic Centre of Rome, the Properties of the Holy See in that City Enjoying Extraterritorial Rights and San Paolo Fuori le Mura — 2024 — WHEDA4B890669

Advanced remote sensing techniques, specifically medium to very high resolution Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) imagery, demonstrate significant potential for both archaeological prospection and the monitoring of cultural heritage sites. The study highlights that SAR data from satellites like RADARSAT-2, Sentinel-1, ALOS-1, and COSMO-SkyMed can effectively detect crop marks associated with buried or subsurface archaeological features in Ostia-Portus, Italy. Additionally, it showcases the use of parallelized Small BAseline Subset (SBAS) Interferometric SAR (InSAR) to monitor the stability of cultural heritage assets within Rome's UNESCO World Heritage Site, providing a robust method for preserving such significant locations.

Archaeological Remote Sensing of Lahore Fort - Pakistan Using Multi-Temporal Drone, Thermal and RADAR Imagery

Fort and Shalamar Gardens in Lahore — 2024 — WHE020F91A9F0

A recent accidental discovery of a second Shahi Hammam within the Lahore Fort has sparked renewed archaeological interest in uncovering hidden Mughal structures. This study leverages multi-temporal drone, thermal infrared (TIR), and RADAR imagery to identify subsurface features using advanced techniques such as SAR polarization analysis, Land Surface Temperature (LST) derivation from OLI, and Gray-Level Co-Occurrence Matrix (GLCM) for texture analysis. Drones were employed for ground truthing and the creation of a 3D map, marking Pakistan's first attempt at 3-D archaeological heritage mapping. The tailored process developed here holds promise for advancing digital archaeology in the region.

Archaeological sites and historical monuments as refuges for threatened species: a call for integrated conservation management

Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu — 2024 — WHE24CBEF345E

Archaeological sites and historical monuments, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Machu Picchu, serve as critical refuges for threatened species. These sites exhibit high biodiversity, with examples such as 13% of Turkey's reptile species found in a small area around Kaunos (modern-day Dalyan) and two new Proctoporus species discovered in Machu Picchu. The presence of ruins provides shelter from predators, while tourism may deter potential threats. However, tourism also poses risks to local biodiversity by promoting invasive species and disrupting habitats. To mitigate these impacts, the study advocates for integrated conservation management that combines archaeological expertise with ecological knowledge, sustainable tourism practices, and public education. Effective protection requires interdepartmental collaboration, joint research, and unified legislation to balance cultural heritage preservation with biodiversity conservation.

Archaeological Studies of Axel Heikel in Transbaikalia

Orkhon Valley Cultural Landscape — 2024 — WHEC3CA4E96CE

A rare surviving photographic record of a lost deer stone from the Sanniy Mys burial ground, captured by Finnish researcher Axel Olai Heikel during his 19th-century expedition in Transbaikalia, offers valuable insight into prehistoric rock art. Heikel's expedition, conducted between Mongolia and Transbaikalia, documented monuments of writing, runic steles, and inscriptions in ancient Uighur and Chinese languages along the Orkhon River valley. His research also included archaeological sites near Troitskosavsk, Verkhneudinsk, and the Uda River valley, where he studied khereksurs, slab graves, deer stones, rock paintings, and steles with inscriptions. While Heikel's publication holds primarily historiographical significance today, his photographic documentation provides an enduring record of a lost archaeological artifact.

Architectural and planning features of wooden orthodox Churches of Bukovyna using the example of the assumption church, 2 Novoushytska street, Chernivtsi

Wooden Tserkvas of the Carpathian Region in Poland and Ukraine — 2024 — WHE834F8636D8

Wooden Orthodox churches of Bukovyna, particularly the Assumption Church in Chernivtsi, exemplify the preservation of medieval folk architectural traditions. These structures, characterized by their cross-shaped plans and steep tent roofs, have been recognized for their cultural significance, with some included in UNESCO's World Heritage List. The study analyzes the Assumption Church's architectural features, which retain authenticity since 1876, serving as a model for researchers and restoration efforts. It explores historical, cultural, and social influences on its design and employs modern 3D scanning technologies to document its condition and create digital models. This approach offers valuable insights into the conservation of such heritage sites.

Architectural and Structural Characteristics of Mimar Sinan Mosques: A Classification Study

Selimiye Mosque and its Social Complex — 2024 — WHE18796DFBD7

Mimar Sinan's mosques represent the pinnacle of Ottoman architecture, characterized by innovative domed central spaces that evolved from earlier Seljuk designs. This study classifies 14 such structures based on construction dates, plan types, congregational features, minarets, and materials, revealing a progression in structural sophistication. By analyzing transition elements to the dome—such as squinches, pendentives, and drum supports—the research demonstrates Sinan's mastery of spatial harmony and load distribution. These findings underscore his role in defining Ottoman architectural identity through functional and aesthetic advancements, particularly in the Selimiye Mosque, which epitomizes this evolution.

Architectural Color Conservation and Renewal Strategies in Historic Urban Areas: An Analysis Based on the Historic City of Macao

Historic Centre of Macao — 2024 — WHE8C63ABD7B6

A study on the Historic Centre of Macao identifies critical principles and strategies for architectural color conservation and renewal, essential for preserving its unique cultural heritage. The research determines that maintaining the original architectural appearance, ensuring the integrity and richness of primary building colors, and controlling color elements are fundamental to conservation efforts. It also introduces practical strategies such as establishing a color database and determining architectural color tones, providing actionable guidance for renovations in historic urban areas. This approach offers valuable insights for balancing preservation with renewal, safeguarding Macao's distinct visual identity while supporting its cultural significance.

Architectural technology and labour organisation at the late Neolithic Liangzhu City, Yangtze Delta region, China

Archaeological Ruins of Liangzhu City — 2024 — WHE508125A0C6

A groundbreaking analysis of the UNESCO World Heritage site, Liangzhu City, reveals that its construction involved sophisticated architectural innovations and labor organization. Researchers found that small groups of 3–4 workers efficiently prepared grass-wrapped clay blocks in just 5 minutes, optimizing drainage and weather resistance through a standard-sized block design (45x15 × 15cm). Unlike classical top-down models, labor was likely organized creatively to address site-specific challenges, offering new insights into the social structure and power dynamics of the Liangzhu Civilization. The study combines environmental, archaeological, and experimental data to reconstruct the technological toolkit used by ancient builders in the Yangtze Delta region.

Architecture at Historic Centre of Zacatecas: Foreign Influences along the Porfiriato (1877-1911)

Historic Centre of Zacatecas — 2024 — WHE713888E261

The architecture of Zacatecas' Historic Centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1993, exhibits significant foreign influences beyond the traditional Spanish colonial style that dominated Mexican cities. This study identifies and analyzes these diverse architectural influences present in public and private buildings constructed or extensively remodeled between 1877 and 1911 during the Porfiriato period. By focusing on this understudied aspect, the research reveals a rich tapestry of foreign design elements that enrich the city's urban landscape, offering new insights into its architectural evolution.

Architetture olivettiane: un itinerario da sud a nord

Ivrea, industrial city of the 20th century — 2024 — WHE54F4A45A0B

A notable contribution to the study of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, this work highlights Adriano's architectural and urban planning achievements within Ivrea, particularly between 1930 and 1960. It showcases innovative residential neighborhoods for Olivetti employees, such as the Summer Colony in Massa Marittima (1948-1958), which exemplifies harmonious integration with natural landscapes. The Factory of Pozzuoli (1951-1954) further illustrates Adriano's design prowess, blending industrial functionality with scenic views of the Gulf of Naples through a meticulously crafted garden. Additionally, the 1936-1937 Regolatore della Valle D'Aosta plan underscores Adriano's regional planning expertise. The study emphasizes the significance of these works in shaping Ivrea's urban landscape, which was later recognized by UNESCO in 2018.

Archival Challenges for the Van Nelle Factory

Van Nellefabriek — 2024 — WHE769F701A9A

A landmark achievement in heritage preservation, the transfer of the Van Nelle Factory's redevelopment archive to Rotterdam City Archive ensures long-term conservation and public accessibility. This case study highlights the critical role of archives in safeguarding modern World Heritage Sites (WHS), offering a model for other protected sites facing similar challenges. The research examines the documentation process, emphasizing its importance in preserving historical integrity while addressing practical archival hurdles. By analyzing the Van Nelle Factory's redevelopment, the study underscores the need for systematic archival practices to support heritage conservation efforts globally.

Are aquatic plants really endangered in Tajikistan (core area of the Mountains of central Asia global biodiversity hotspot)?

Tugay forests of the Tigrovaya Balka Nature Reserve — 2024 — WHEB68A7273B3

A recent study challenges the perception that aquatic plants are endangered in Tajikistan, a core region of the Central Asia biodiversity hotspot. Researchers conducted field inventories across diverse waterbodies in South Tajikistan and East Pamir, identifying five new plant taxa for the country (including Lemna × japonica and Nymphaea odorata) and expanding known distributions for 22 species. While declines were noted in the unique tugai landscapes of Tigrovaya Balka Nature Reserve, the findings suggest that Central Asian alpine waterbodies may serve as biodiversity hotspots rather than solely threatened habitats. The study underscores the need for ongoing monitoring to reassess conservation statuses and update Red Lists amid rising tourism pressures.

Are Soil Nematode Communities Altered by Tree Introduction and Prolonged Cultivation in the Subarctic Region?

Cultural and Historic Ensemble of the Solovetsky Islands — 2024 — WHEFB3BCEEF83

Introduced tree species in the Solovetsky Islands' botanical garden exhibit significantly higher nematode taxonomic diversity and abundance, particularly plant parasites, compared to natural forests. This study reveals that prolonged cultivation alters soil nematode communities, with ecological indices showing inconsistent responses to these changes. Notably, a positive correlation exists between soil carbon and nitrogen content and the abundance of plant-parasitic nematodes, while fungal feeders are negatively correlated with C:N ratios. Additionally, soil pH influences taxonomic diversity and bacterial feeder abundance. The discovery of Steinernema affine in Russia underscores the ecological significance of these findings.

Are travellers' destination visit intentions influenced by social media An information adoption theory perspective

Buddhist Monuments at Sanchi — 2024 — WHE228FD24FB2

Social media significantly influences travelers' intentions to visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites, with information usefulness emerging as the strongest predictor. A study of 220 respondents found that argument quality, attitude, and tie strength—measures of how effectively social media presents information—positively impact perceived usefulness, which in turn drives destination visit intentions. The research applied the Information Adoption Model to analyze data from travelers visiting the Buddhist Monuments at Sanchi and the Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka (both in Madhya Pradesh, India) using structural equation modeling. Notably, source credibility did not significantly affect outcomes. This work highlights social media's role as a critical tool for pre-visit information gathering, offering insights into how digital platforms shape travel behavior.

Arrangements and Implications of the Central Military barracks during the Korean Empire

Jongmyo Shrine — 2024 — WHE460ACA8AB7

The strategic relocation of military barracks during the Korean Empire, particularly around Jongmyo Shrine and Gyeongbok Palace, significantly influenced King Gojong's political leadership and the eventual decline of the Central Army. This study reveals that the initial placement of barracks away from the palace during the Gabo Reform reflected the king's diminished influence, but their subsequent shift to Gyeongun Palace symbolized his reassertion of power. However, post-Russo-Japanese War disarmament left the Korean Imperial Army isolated and vulnerable, with Japanese forces occupying vacated barracks. The research combines historical analysis and spatial reconstruction to demonstrate how military arrangements mirrored broader political transitions, ultimately contributing to the army's helpless dissolution.

Arslantepe in the foreground: The economic and social role of the large blades at the end of the 4th millennium BC

Arslantepe Mound — 2024 — WHEE7D962DF99

Large chert blades from Arslantepe Mound (3500–3200 BCE) reveal significant insights into the economic and social dynamics of late prehistoric societies. These tools, analyzed through raw material characterization, technological studies, use-wear analysis, and experimental archaeology, demonstrate their potential as proxies for reconstructing technical systems and routine activities. The study highlights how large blades played a pivotal role in reinforcing social inequality during this period, coinciding with the emergence of centralized administration and symbols of power at the site.

Artificial Intelligence for Routine Heritage Monitoring and Sustainable Planning of the Conservation of Historic Districts: A Case Study on Fujian Earthen Houses (Tulou)

Fujian Tulou — 2024 — WHE121EA69BAD

A machine-learning-based object detection method using the YOLOv8 model demonstrates high efficiency and accuracy in identifying damage to the wooden structures of Fujian earthen houses (Tulou). This approach significantly reduces labor and time costs compared to traditional evaluation methods, providing reliable technical support for routine heritage monitoring, renewal, and restoration. Through multiple experiments, the model's detection performance was optimized by refining sample selection, improving label quality, and adjusting hyperparameters. Despite an mAP of 57% in controlled settings, field tests showed the model effectively detected nearly all damage points, including holes, stains, and cracks, even in complex environments. This study highlights the potential of artificial intelligence in sustainable conservation planning for historic districts.

Asmara’s cultural integration: bridging the past and the future

Asmara: A Modernist African City — 2024 — WHE636F4ECC86

Asmara, a UNESCO-listed modernist city in Eritrea, exemplifies how colonial urban heritage can be reappropriated to foster social, economic, and cultural development. The study highlights the successful integration of Italian modernist architecture with local vernacular techniques, such as the 'monkey head' masonry method, which combines rough stonework with wooden beams—a practice rooted in Eritrean tradition. This fusion not only preserves architectural identity but also enriches it with inclusive values, offering a model for heritage conservation. The research emphasizes the need for intergenerational dialogue and community engagement to sustain this process, particularly through participatory workshops that bridge traditional and modern constructive cultures. By doing so, Asmara demonstrates how intangible cultural heritage can be leveraged for sustainable urban regeneration.