World Heritage Research: Search

Publications

Showing 3701 – 3720 of 15944 publications

Bybanen i Bergen og manglende arkivundersøkelser

Bryggen — 2024 — WHE419EDADE8E

A critical analysis reveals that the proposed route for Bergen's Bybanen tram system assumes the presence of a stable stone fill over sterile seabed, implying historical seabed layers have been removed. This assumption poses risks to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Bryggen, as it suggests cultural layers may remain undisturbed, potentially threatening their preservation. The study highlights gaps in archival investigations, emphasizing the need for thorough archaeological assessments before construction begins.

Byblos. A legacy unearthed

Byblos — 2024 — WHE6BD4503C1D

Byblos, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, stands out for its profound historical and cultural significance spanning nearly 8900 years. This city, renowned as a preeminent port and religious center from around 3200 BC, played a pivotal role in Mediterranean history due to its strategic location near Mount Lebanon's cedar forests and its close ties with ancient Egyptian pharaohs. Byblos is also synonymous with writing, contributing the term for 'book' to the Greek language. The anthology 'Byblos: A Legacy Unearthed' compiles extensive research from leading international experts, covering archaeological expeditions and recent discoveries that illuminate the city's history from Neolithic origins through the Medieval era. This collaborative effort between the National Museum of Antiquities (The Netherlands) and Lebanon's Ministry of Culture offers a comprehensive, lavishly illustrated exploration of Byblos' enduring legacy.

Byzantine Rock-Cut Architecture in Cappadocia and Beyond: The State of Scholarship

Göreme National Park and the Rock Sites of Cappadocia — 2024 — WHEA3D2423451

Rock-cut architecture, long overlooked in Byzantine studies, is now recognized as a primary means for Byzantine society to engage with and transform its environment. This critical review synthesizes current scholarship on rock-cut sites in Cappadocia, highlighting their excellent preservation and potential to enrich research on spatial practices, economic activities, and daily life. The study emphasizes the interplay between rock-cut and masonry traditions, exploring practical motivations and sacred associations behind their use. It also identifies methodological challenges and future directions, advocating for a nuanced understanding of Byzantine landscapes through appropriate theoretical frameworks.

Calculation of carbon sequestered through remote sensing in a metropolitan park in the city of Quito, Ecuador

City of Quito — 2024 — WHE39D6097701

Researchers have quantified the carbon sequestration potential of eucalyptus trees in Quito, Ecuador's Guangüiltagua Metropolitan Park, estimating that these trees store approximately 42,150 tons of CO₂. This finding was derived using a multi-phase approach combining remote sensing and field measurements. The study employed the Normalized Differential Vegetation Index (NDVI) from Landsat 8 and Sentinel-2 satellite imagery to assess vegetation health and biomass over time. Field data, including diameter at breast height (DBH) and tree height, were collected across 50 quadrants to validate and refine these estimates. Linear regression models then extrapolated the CO₂ storage per quadrant to the entire park area. This work provides critical data for urban carbon inventory initiatives, offering a scalable method for assessing carbon sequestration in metropolitan green spaces.

Cambodia

Cambodian Memorial Sites: From centres of repression to places of peace and reflection — 2024 — WHEBF68695C02

The preservation of human remains from Cambodia's Khmer Rouge genocide, while intended to serve as evidence and educational tools for future generations, may have inadvertently undermined national peace. This study reveals that political interests favoring the display of bones in memorials like Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum prioritize legitimacy over the dignity of the deceased, potentially hindering genuine reconciliation. The research employs the SANE framework to analyze local and national memorial sites, demonstrating how memory politics influence contemporary struggles for power and the quality of peace in post-genocide Cambodia.

Camellia zijinica (Theaceae), a new species endemic to Danxia landscape from Guangdong Province, China

China Danxia — 2024 — WHEB2FD9938D0

Researchers have identified Camellia zijinica, a new species of the genus Camellia endemic to the Danxia landscape in Guangdong Province, China. This discovery was supported by both morphological and molecular analyses, including phylogenetic analysis based on chloroplast genomes. While closely related to species like C. drupifera, C. oleifera, and C. fluviatilis, Camellia zijinica exhibits distinct characteristics such as glabrous young branchlets, fewer bracteoles and sepals, diverse leaf shape, and a midvein that is slightly raised with sparse or no pubescence. These traits set it apart from its closest relative, C. microphylla, which typically features densely pubescent branchlets and leaves. The study highlights the biodiversity of the Danxia landscape and contributes to the understanding of the genus Camellia, particularly within the section Paracamellia.

Can Spirituality Save Centuries-Old Trees and Forests? A Study from the Mountains of Northwest Greece

Zagori Cultural Landscape — 2024 — WHED6330EA27E

Sacred Natural Sites (SNS) in Greece's Epirus region, including centuries-old trees and forests linked to churches or villages, demonstrate the potential of spirituality to drive conservation. These sites, protected by local beliefs that deter timber extraction, provide critical ecosystem services such as disaster mitigation, water resource conservation, and conflict resolution. A study highlights their multifunctional role in socio-ecological systems, with some SNS, like those in Zagori and Konitsa, gaining UNESCO recognition for their intangible cultural heritage value. The research suggests that deeper appreciation of spirituality could enhance nature protection efforts by integrating traditional values with modern conservation strategies.

Canal Heritage Tourism Utilization Models: Experience and Inspirations from the Grand Canal (Beijing Section)

The Grand Canal — 2024 — WHE7ED71B832A

Two distinct models for canal heritage tourism utilization—community concentration and corridor expansion—emerge as key strategies for sustainable development along the Grand Canal (Beijing section). These models differ significantly in their developmental processes, resource dynamics, and spatial organization. The study attributes these differences to driving forces such as location, economic, cultural, ecological factors, and accidental influences, alongside continuous self-adjustment by canal-adjacent areas. Using a figure-ground relationship theory framework, the research integrates literature reviews, field investigations, and in-depth interviews to dissect the characteristics and underlying mechanisms of each model. Findings offer theoretical constructs and policy recommendations for optimizing and sustaining canal heritage development.

Cannabis sativa (hemp) – an eco-friendly material for heritage conservation and sustainable environment

Ellora Caves — 2024 — WHEAB65D77BA5

A groundbreaking study reveals that Cannabis sativa (hemp) significantly enhances the durability and preservation of ancient heritage sites, such as Ellora Caves. The research demonstrates that hemp's inclusion in earthen or lime plaster improves fibrosity, resistance to insects, and humidity control, contributing to the survival of mural paintings for over 1,500 years under harsh climatic conditions. Additionally, the study highlights hemp's potential as a carbon-sequestering material, aligning with sustainable development goals. The authors combine literature review with laboratory investigations to showcase hemp's multifaceted utility in eco-friendly heritage conservation and environmental solutions.

Canterbury Cathedral: The Liturgy of the Cathedral and its Music, c. 1075–1642

Canterbury Cathedral, St Augustine's Abbey, and St Martin's Church — 2024 — WHEB864FA5B96

Canterbury Cathedral, founded by Lanfranc in 1070 and consecrated by 1077, served as the central spiritual hub for a Benedictine monastic community. For nearly 470 years before Lanfranc, the cathedral's primary purpose was liturgical observance, a continuous cycle of worship, prayer, contemplation, and penance aimed at intercession for humanity and spiritual reward. This practice persisted for another 900 years post-Lanfranc, underscoring its enduring significance in medieval Christian ritual. The study examines the liturgy's role not merely as an act of devotion but as a means to benefit society and secure salvation, reflecting the deep theological and social dimensions of monastic life during this period.

Capacidade da governança pública territorial de envolver o turismo de base comunitária no desenvolvimento local sustentável: uma análise do caso de Paraty/RJ

Paraty and Ilha Grande – Culture and Biodiversity — 2024 — WHE38D08162FF

Public governance mechanisms can effectively engage community-based tourism (CBT) in promoting sustainable local development, according to a study analyzing Paraty/RJ. The research identifies four key dimensions—concessions, copotentiality, coeffectiveness, and colegitimacy—that enable territorial public governance (GPT) to support CBT in driving endogenous and sustainable growth. This finding addresses a gap in the literature by demonstrating how GPT can facilitate collaborative efforts between tourism initiatives and local stakeholders. The study employed a case analysis of Paraty/RJ, leveraging documentary reviews, direct observations, and semi-structured questionnaires, with thematic content analysis guiding data interpretation.

Capturing mobile, situational, and multi-dimensional tourist experience: an integrated approach

Mount Huangshan — 2024 — WHE4FEE3278C2

Tourist experiences on Mount Huangshan, China, are revealed to be mobile and situational, evolving dynamically through geographic, sensory, social, and emotional dimensions. This study introduces an integrated methodology combining GPS tracking, sound level sensing, wearable physiological sensors, Ecological Momentary Assessment (EMA) surveys, in-situ photos/videos, and photo/video-elicited interviews to capture these multi-dimensional aspects in real-time. The approach demonstrates how tourist experiences shift throughout their journey, offering a comprehensive framework for future research on the dynamics of tourism. Practical implications include enhanced understanding of visitor behavior, which can inform conservation efforts and site management at UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Mount Huangshan.

Carbon stock, subsurface characteristics and accommodation settings of sub-tropical peatland Histosols, K'gari, Queensland Australia

K’gari (Fraser Island) — 2024 — WHE2D2D5817E2

Subtropical peatlands on K'gari (Fraser Island), Australia, hold significant carbon stocks comparable to global averages, with some sites storing up to 1665.5 Mg C ha⁻¹. Unlike temperate or montane-alpine Empodisma-dominated peatlands, these subtropical systems exhibit higher bulk density, lower moisture content, and greater humification, particularly in younger Holocene deposits like Moon Point. The study reveals that older morphosequences (e.g., Yankee Jack) and coastal sediment settings limit peat accumulation due to reduced groundwater levels and accommodation space, increasing susceptibility to fires and carbon loss. Climate shifts 6000–5000 years ago favored peat growth across southeast Queensland, but ongoing management is critical to prevent these ecosystems from becoming net carbon emitters.

Carceral Time at Port Arthur and the Tasman Peninsula: An Archaeological View of the Mechanisms of Convict Time Management in a Nineteenth Century Penal Landscape

Australian Convict Sites — 2024 — WHE3EC6029B7A

Archaeological and historical evidence reveals that Port Arthur, a 19th-century penal settlement on Tasmania's Tasman Peninsula, employed an intricate system of audio-visual signaling to synchronize labor and enforce time compliance across its vast industrial landscape. Bells coordinated activities within settlements, while time balls and semaphores facilitated communication between distant or topographically challenging sites. GIS analysis demonstrated that this network not only synchronized labor but also extended surveillance and control over the entire penal zone, spanning 660 km². The study highlights the sophistication of convict time management in a mid-19th-century carceral environment.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park: Acoustic monitoring report, 2019

Carlsbad Caverns National Park — 2024 — WHE4F09C7CE55

Carlsbad Caverns National Park exhibits exceptionally low ambient sound levels, with median daytime noise at 21.0 dB and nighttime noise at 20.1 dB, reflecting its quiet wilderness character. The study, conducted by the Natural Sounds and Night Skies Division from late October to mid-December 2019, found that higher noise thresholds (e.g., 35 dB) were exceeded less than 4% of the day and just 0.81% at night, with even louder levels (45 dB+) rarely detected. A geospatial sound model estimated existing ambient noise at 32.3 dBA and natural conditions at 29.8 dBA, indicating localized anthropogenic impacts. The research aimed to establish a baseline for evaluating potential acoustic disruptions from overflights.

Carnivore Chronicles: Co-occurrence and habitat use in the tropical forest of Manas National Park, North-East India

Manas Wildlife Sanctuary — 2024 — WHED44F27E892

Research in Manas National Park, India, reveals that most carnivore species exhibit random co-occurrence patterns with limited spatial overlap, suggesting minimal antagonism among them despite shared habitats. The study, using camera-trap data from 37 species over 11,388 trap nights, found that large carnivores like tigers and leopards show distinct habitat preferences influenced by prey availability, elevation, and human presence. Tigers favor areas with abundant large-medium prey but avoid forest roads, while leopards prefer habitats with medium and small prey. Small and meso-carnivores, including clouded leopards and dholes, thrive in dense vegetation and regions rich in small prey. The findings underscore the importance of protecting diverse habitats, mitigating human-wildlife conflicts, and maintaining healthy prey populations for the long-term conservation of carnivores in tropical forests.

Carthage

Archaeological Site of Carthage — 2024 — WHE8900749E2E

The archaeological site of Carthage, once a dominant Mediterranean power, has been rediscovered through centuries of exploration and excavation. This book highlights how the site's remnants were gradually uncovered, often controversially, bringing its legendary past back into public consciousness. From the first identification of Punic artifacts to the systematic excavations that followed, the narrative traces the efforts of antiquarians, travelers, and scientists who pieced together Carthage's history. The process revealed a city founded by Queen Dido, destroyed in wars with Rome, and later reborn as a Roman and Christian center. However, the exploration also involved the plunder of artifacts for European museums, raising ethical questions about the preservation and representation of heritage.

Cartography for Cultural Tourism Attractions Around Ban Chiang Archaeological Site, Udon Thani, Thailand

Ban Chiang Archaeological Site — 2024 — WHE490DCFB2F0

A comprehensive mapping of cultural tourism attractions around the Ban Chiang Archaeological Site, Thailand, reveals four distinct categories: museums, religious sites, accommodations (homestays), and restaurants/street food. These attractions are primarily concentrated in communities surrounding the site, offering valuable insights for spatial planning and tourism development. The study employed field surveys, GPS coordinate recording, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to analyze the distribution and potential of these cultural assets. This cartographic approach not only aids local residents in planning and improving tourism infrastructure but also fosters community pride, economic growth, and sustainable tourism practices.

Catch me if you can: informal tourism employment of locals in scenic-oriented rural communities

Fujian Tulou — 2024 — WHE72245BB282

Local residents in scenic-oriented rural communities, particularly those in Fujian Tulou villages, are extensively involved in informal tourism employment due to limited job prospects and the unique rural land ownership system in China. These individuals employ tactics such as camouflage, tacit collusion, lurking, and covert actions to navigate regulations while engaging in informal work. The study highlights that support from rural social networks further motivates this behavior. To standardize management, local governments and tourism companies are introducing formal employment opportunities and profit-sharing arrangements to regularize local employment in the tourism sector.

Cave Pools in Carlsbad Caverns National Park Contain Diverse Bacteriophage Communities and Novel Viral Sequences

Carlsbad Caverns National Park — 2024 — WHE46B9A17133

Carlsbad Caverns National Park harbors a diverse and novel viral community, with viral-like particles (VLPs) outnumbering microorganisms by approximately 22:1 across four cave pools. This study reveals that caves may serve as significant repositories for unexplored viromes, challenging the notion that such environments are less biodiverse than aquatic systems. While viral communities in tourist-accessible pools were more similar to each other, they diverged from those in less visited areas, contrasting with bacterial community patterns linked to pool geochemistry. Viral metagenomics identified novel sequences and auxiliary metabolic genes (AMGs), underscoring the potential for caves to host unique microbial interactions and metabolic potentials.