World Heritage Research: Search

Publications

Showing 3641 – 3660 of 15962 publications

Assessment of Rock Art Preservation Awareness among Hail University Students for Sustainable Development Purpose in Ksa

Rock Art in the Hail Region of Saudi Arabia — 2024 — WHE881F8F314C

A recent study reveals that Hail University students in Saudi Arabia exhibit low awareness of rock art preservation, despite its significance as a UNESCO-listed cultural heritage and potential for sustainable tourism. The research, using quantitative surveys with 204 participants, underscores the need for targeted educational initiatives to enhance community engagement in preserving these Paleolithic and Neolithic sites—including Jubbah, Shuwaymis, and Himma—which are vital to Saudi Arabia's archaeological legacy. The findings highlight practical strategies to boost student awareness, aligning with broader efforts by Saudi authorities to integrate heritage conservation into sustainable development goals.

Assessment of Slope Stability at Erbil Citadel, Kurdistan Region of Iraq Using Bejerman’s Method

Erbil Citadel — 2024 — WHE9BD88E5477

A study assessing slope stability at Erbil Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world's longest-continuously inhabited sites, reveals significant risks due to severe erosion and creep. Using Bejerman’s method, researchers evaluated 11 stations around the citadel, identifying Landslide Possibility Index (LPI) values ranging from 18–22, indicating medium to high failure potential at nine locations. This assessment highlights critical instability threats to historical structures, particularly on the citadel's edges, underscoring the need for urgent slope stabilization measures to preserve this ancient site.

Assessment of the Potential of Agrotourism in Samarkand to Attract Foreign Tourists

Samarkand – Crossroad of Cultures — 2024 — WHE753F62E123

Agrotourism in Samarkand, despite its rich agricultural heritage and cultural significance, remains underdeveloped but holds substantial potential to diversify tourism and boost rural economies. A mixed-methods study—combining statistical analysis, surveys of foreign tourists and local residents, and expert interviews—revealed key preferences and challenges that hinder growth. Strategic recommendations are proposed to enhance agrotourism offerings, aiming for sustainable economic development in the region.

Assessment of the surface water quality in high-altitude springs in the Sagarmatha (Everest) National Park, Nepal

Sagarmatha National Park — 2024 — WHE9881F47074

A three-year study (2008–2010) of high-altitude springs in Sagarmatha National Park, Nepal, revealed deteriorating water quality along major tourist treks. While still meeting WHO and Nepalese drinking water standards, significant annual increases in nitrate-nitrogen and total phosphorus—key indicators of human impact—were detected. These trends suggest worsening degradation, despite current levels remaining below critical thresholds. The research provides a baseline dataset for managing these springs and assessing the effects of tourism on fragile highland ecosystems.

Assessment of the Synergistic Development Status of Nature-Based Tourism in the National Parks Agglomeration of the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau

Tajik National Park (Mountains of the Pamirs) — 2024 — WHE15015604A0

A robust framework for assessing the synergistic development of nature-based tourism has been established, revealing significant spatial heterogeneity within China's Qinghai–Tibet Plateau National Parks Agglomeration. Shangri-La and Qinghai Lake National Parks serve as core nodes in the tourism flow network, while Mount Kailash, Gaoligong Mountain, and Pamir–Kunlun Mountains National Parks lag in coordinated development. This assessment, integrating multi-source data on resource complementarity, product connectivity, tourist source sharing, and information linkage, provides critical insights for optimizing the regional layout of national parks and offers a methodological foundation for similar developments globally.

Assessment of the water quality of spring “La Mina”. Groundwater of Parque Rural del Nublo. Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO. Gran Canaria. Canary Islands

Risco Caido and the Sacred Mountains of Gran Canaria Cultural Landscape — 2024 — WHEDAB6816AD5

Groundwater from the spring "La Mina" in Gran Canaria's Parque Rural del Nublo, a UNESCO-listed Biosphere Reserve and World Heritage Site, is classified as hypothermal, alkaline, and very soft with low conductivity and weak mineralization but notable silica content. This water, rich in bicarbonate, chloride, calcium, and sodium ions, exhibits potential pharmacological and therapeutic effects. The study assessed its organoleptic, physico-chemical, and bacteriological quality, highlighting its suitability for irrigation and as a potential source of bottled "natural mineral water." Recognized by UNESCO in 2005 as a Biosphere Reserve and later inscribed on the World Heritage List in 2019, this landscape's groundwater plays a vital ecological and cultural role.

Assessment of Tourism Activities and Environmental Impacts on Ecosystems in Ha Long Bay World Natural Heritage Site

Ha Long Bay - Cat Ba Archipelago — 2024 — WHEA8E00B6120

Tourism in Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site, significantly impacts its ecosystems, with 32.5% of reported effects on mangroves, 36.4% on coral reefs, and 34.4% on beach activities. Despite advancements in waste management and biodiversity conservation, environmental pollution from boats and tourist waste continues to threaten endemic flora and fauna. The study underscores the need for increased investment, stricter management measures, and greater awareness among local communities and tourists to ensure sustainable protection of this natural heritage site.

Assessment of vegetation cover changes and the contributing factors in the Al-Ahsa Oasis using Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI)

Al-Ahsa Oasis, an Evolving Cultural Landscape — 2024 — WHEE23C8F1885

A significant improvement in the ecological environment of Al-Ahsa Oasis, Saudi Arabia, has been observed from 1987 to 2021, with a notable increase in vegetation cover. This was evidenced by an increase in Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) values exceeding 0.10, particularly in the 'green' zones where NDVI values surpassed 0.40. The study, using Landsat satellite images and ground validation points, found that while low NDVI areas remained stable, high NDVI regions expanded, especially in northern and southern parts of the oasis from 2002 to 2021. High accuracy (92%) was achieved in detecting vegetation cover changes. The research suggests that strengthening forestry projects could help combat sand encroachment and further enhance the oasis's ecological environment.

Atoms and ashes: from Bikini Atoll to Fukushima

Bikini Atoll Nuclear Test Site — 2024 — WHE7524C434D3

Historical analysis reveals that major nuclear accidents, including the Bikini Atoll Nuclear Test Site incident, have consistently hindered civilian nuclear initiatives, complicating the debate on nuclear energy's role in mitigating climate change. Serhii Plokhy's book examines six nuclear disasters—Bikini Atoll (1950s), Kyshtym (1957), Windscale (1957), Three Mile Island (1979), Chernobyl (1986), and Fukushima (2011)—through comprehensive research and firsthand accounts, balancing technical details with human narratives. The study underscores the paradox of nuclear energy: while its potential to address climate change is significant, repeated accidents have eroded public trust and slowed progress. Plokhy argues that these disasters, far from being secrets, have shaped global perceptions, making it challenging to envision a world without their impact.

Autels et cippes à Dougga et sa région : étude iconographique et architecturale

Dougga / Thugga — 2024 — WHE28486F9BB4

A comprehensive analysis of cippes and monuments from Dougga, Tunisia, reveals significant insights into ancient funerary practices and social hierarchies. The study, the first to focus extensively on these often-overlooked artifacts, categorizes them based on function (votive or funerary) and form, while examining architectural and iconographic details. It also maps their spatial distribution, distinguishing between in-situ autels and those found out of context. By tracing the historical context of excavations and analyzing inscriptions, the research reconstructs the social origins and ranks of the deceased, offering a nuanced understanding of Dougga's ancient society.

Authenticity of architecture, place attachment, identity and support for sustainable tourism in world heritage cities

Colonial City of Santo Domingo — 2024 — WHE39EAA85C96

A strong connection exists between perceived architectural authenticity and residents' support for sustainable tourism in UNESCO World Heritage Sites, mediated by place attachment and cultural identity. Research in Santo Domingo's Colonial Zone revealed that authentic architecture fosters deeper community ties and local identity, which in turn encourages residents to advocate for tourism practices that preserve heritage. This relationship was analyzed using structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) on 509 valid responses, offering a post-pandemic perspective on how architectural authenticity can strengthen support for sustainable conservation efforts.

Autumn Migration of the Rare Yellow-Eyed Pigeon Columba eversmanni from Western Tian Shan (Tanyrtau), Kazakhstan

Western Tien-Shan — 2024 — WHE3EA067EAFF

The Yellow-eyed Pigeon (Columba eversmanni), a globally endangered species, exhibits rapid autumn migration with maximum travel rates of 257 km/day and 243 km/day, averaging 102 km/day over distances exceeding 1000 km. Tracking two individuals via GPS/GSM transmitters revealed their flyway through southern Kazakhstan, eastern Uzbekistan, and northern Afghanistan, highlighting critical stopover sites in forest belts, crop fields, and rural areas. Night-time roosting preferences included trees in agricultural landscapes and buildings. These findings underscore the importance of large-scale tracking to elucidate migration patterns, identify threats, and inform conservation strategies for this rare Central Asian pigeon.

Avian functional diversity retained in a tropical rainforest fragment after more than 120 years of turnover

Singapore Botanic Gardens — 2024 — WHE50390E4CD2

Despite significant species turnover over more than 120 years, a small tropical rainforest fragment within the UNESCO-listed Singapore Botanic Gardens has retained its avian functional diversity. This resilience was revealed through a comparison of historical records from 1898 with contemporary surveys conducted in 1998 and 2018–2021. The study found that while species composition shifted dramatically (50% dissimilarity), driven primarily by turnover rather than nestedness, both species richness and functional diversity remained stable. This suggests that small forest fragments can support novel but functionally equivalent bird communities, potentially due to functional redundancy. Such findings highlight the importance of habitat restoration adjacent to fragmented forests in preserving ecological functions.

Avian malaria parasites (Haemosporida: Plasmodiidae) in mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) of the Curonian Spit (South-East coast of the Baltic Sea)

Curonian Spit — 2024 — WHE2596749446

Research on the Curonian Spit reveals that Culex pipiens mosquitoes are competent vectors for avian malaria parasites, specifically Plasmodium relictum (genetic lineages pGRW11 and pSGS1), and potentially for Plasmodium vaughani (pSYAT05). This finding sheds light on the transmission dynamics of avian haemosporidian parasites in Europe, where knowledge about vector species remains limited. The study employed a combination of morphological identification, PCR analysis, and dissection of mosquito salivary glands to detect sporozoites, confirming the role of Culex pipiens as a significant carrier in this region.

Bacterial Diversity in Al-Asfar Lake, Al Ahsa Oasis, Saudi Arabia

Al-Ahsa Oasis, an Evolving Cultural Landscape — 2024 — WHEB9BAC07BD8

Al-Asfar Lake, part of the UNESCO-listed Al-Ahsa Oasis, harbors a rich and diverse bacterial community with potential biotechnological applications. The study identified 12 bacterial species through 16S rRNA sequencing and revealed four dominant phyla—Firmicutes, Cyanobacteria, Bacteroidota, and Proteobacteria—using metagenomic analysis. Functional gene screening uncovered 33 categories, including xenobiotic biodegradation, highlighting the lake's role in biogeochemical processes. The research employed a polyphasic approach, combining culture-dependent methods (e.g., TSA and BA media) with VITEK phenotypic characterization and direct DNA extraction for metagenomics, providing comprehensive insights into microbial diversity and function.

Bagan Myinkaba Village Cultural Heritage: Past and Present | ပဂ မငကပရရရယခငနင ယနခတ ယဉကမ အမအနစမ

Pyu Ancient Cities — 2024 — WHEB847808803

Bagan Myinkaba Village, one of the 19 founding villages of the ancient Pyu city, stands out for its unique cultural and economic significance tied to a large seasonal water body. This study reveals that Myinkaba's strategic location on the Ayeyarawady River facilitated centuries-long trade in bamboo, lacquer, and glass production, while also preserving animist-Buddhist syncretic traditions from Pyu, Bamar, and Mon interactions. Unlike other villages, its proximity to water has shaped its economic role, with festivals generating income through traditional crafts and puppet competitions. The research proposes a village-based model for future excavations and education, aiming to sustain Bagan's UNESCO World Heritage status while offering insights into the city's complex social dynamics.

Balancing Globalization and Heritage Conservation in Gulf Cities: Case Studies from Doha and Jeddah

Historic Jeddah, the Gate to Makkah — 2024 — WHE669164DECB

Globalization and heritage conservation in Gulf cities, including Historic Jeddah, are not opposing forces but can coexist to create a globally attractive urban product. This study challenges the notion that modernization inherently conflicts with preserving historic sites by analyzing case studies from Doha and Jeddah. It reveals that both approaches aim to appeal to transnational elites and attract investment, while effective policies and management strategies can ensure the continuity of historic sites without stifling urban growth. The research emphasizes the need for a thorough investigative method to navigate these complex circumstances, suggesting that global interdependence, when coupled with appropriate actions, can positively influence both macro- and micro-urban changes.

Balancing Playability and Historical Accuracy in Game Design - Developing the Struve Geodetic Arc Mobile Game

Struve Geodetic Arc — 2024 — WHEE4E6B619F8

A key insight from developing the Struve Geodetic Arc mobile game is that the interplay between historical accuracy and playability is shaped by resource constraints, timing of research, and developers' roles—often leading to varying degrees of historical fidelity. The study identifies critical challenges in balancing educational value with engaging gameplay, particularly in small development teams where individual decisions influence both design and historical representation. Through thematic analysis of interviews and game documents, researchers reveal that historical knowledge and technological integration must be carefully timed to avoid compromising either accuracy or user experience.

Balancing Tradition and Modernity: The Brand Personality of Santiniketan as a Tourist Destination

Santiniketan — 2024 — WHE6914DFAC6B

Santiniketan's brand personality, rooted in its cultural heritage and the legacy of Rabindranath Tagore, is significantly shaped by dimensions like courteousness, conformity, creativity, and tranquillity. A study using the Destination Personality Scale and mixed-method approaches revealed notable differences in perceptions between tourists who have visited Santiniketan and those who haven't, despite their shared knowledge about the destination. This research highlights the importance of cultural attributes and rich heritage in enhancing tourists' perceptions and increasing visitation rates, offering valuable insights for destination marketers to align strategies effectively.

Bamboo (Poales, Poaceae): An Important Maintainer of Immature Mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) in a Biodiversity Hotspot in the City of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Rio de Janeiro: Carioca Landscapes between the Mountain and the Sea — 2024 — WHEA4EA05B038

A study conducted in Tijuca National Park, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, reveals that bamboo species—Guadua tagoara and Bambusa vulgaris—serve as critical habitats for immature mosquitoes, supporting a diverse range of 19 mosquito species. Over the course of one year, researchers collected 1,845 mosquito immatures from artificially drilled bamboo plants, with 72% found in one sampling area and 28% in another. Among these, 1,162 individuals reached adulthood, including several potential arbovirus vectors such as Culex iridescens and Wyeomyia species. The findings highlight the ecological significance of bamboo in maintaining mosquito populations within this urban biodiversity hotspot, which attracts large numbers of tourists, thereby increasing the risk of human-mosquito interactions and disease transmission.