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Publications

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Shaping the Body Politic: Art and Political Formation in Early America (review)

Monticello and the University of Virginia in Charlottesville — 2012 — WHE39C36AFCD2

Shaping the Body Politic: Art and Political Formation in Early America reveals how early American visual and material culture played a pivotal role in defining national identity and political discourse. The volume, drawn from a 2006 symposium at the University of Virginia, explores the interplay between art, politics, and rhetoric during the late colonial period to the early nineteenth century. Through interdisciplinary analysis, it uncovers the political motivations behind iconic representations of George Washington, such as Houdon’s statue and Stuart’s Lansdowne Portrait, which shaped America’s national iconography and legitimated Federalist policies. Additionally, it examines lesser-known works by Charles Willson Peale and British-trained artists, highlighting their contributions to American visual aesthetics. The book also rethinks the significance of vernacular artworks and built environments, including Monticello, demonstrating how Jeffersonian design conveyed a sense of national identity through spatial dynamics.

Singularités architecturales du cimetière impérial des Xixia : le monument funéraire

Xixia Imperial Tombs — 2012 — WHE6209B78843

The Xixia imperial necropolis, located against the Helan Mountains near Yinchuan, China, presents unique architectural features distinct from traditional Chinese and neighboring states' funerary practices. Notably, its monumental pagoda-like structure is positioned in the northwest of the inner precinct, not at the center or above the underground chamber—a deviation unparalleled in imperial tomb designs. This study reveals that the necropolis's design integrates religious and political influences, highlighting the Tangut dynasty's originality. By analyzing architectural elements, the research sheds light on the cultural and symbolic significance underlying the Xixia funerary tradition.

Socotra Archipelago - a lifeboat in the sea of changes: advancement in Socotran insect biodiversity survey

Socotra Archipelago — 2012 — WHE3C358DBA79

The Socotra Archipelago, a remote island group in the Indian Ocean, harbors a unique and highly diverse insect fauna that serves as a 'lifeboat' amid global environmental changes. This study advances our understanding of Socotran insect biodiversity by documenting 104 species, including 23 new to science, from a comprehensive survey conducted between 2009 and 2011. The research employed traditional taxonomic methods combined with DNA barcoding to assess species richness and endemism across the archipelago's distinct habitats. Findings reveal that Socotra's insects exhibit remarkable levels of endemism (up to 75% in some groups), underscoring its significance as a biodiversity hotspot. This work highlights the importance of protecting Socotra's fragile ecosystems, which face threats from climate change and human activity.

Soil organic carbon storage in moutain grasslands of the Lake Plateau at Mt. Durmitor in Montenegro

Durmitor National Park — 2012 — WHE1DBCD629F0

Researchers estimate that alpine grasslands on the Lake Plateau of Durmitor National Park, Montenegro, store approximately 560,414.86 tons of soil organic carbon (SOC) in the top 40 cm of leptosol soils, equivalent to an average density of 15.27 kg per square meter. This study highlights significant variability in SOC storage, driven by local-scale factors such as soil moisture, clay and silt content, and mean annual temperature. These variables collectively explain about 51% of the variation in SOC density across 28 soil profiles. The findings underscore the importance of microclimatic and edaphic conditions in determining carbon storage potential in high-altitude mountain ecosystems.

Solid Waste Management Issues in Small Towns of Developing World: A Case Study of Taxila City

Taxila — 2012 — WHEA4EEA7A424

Taxila City faces severe solid waste management challenges due to rapid urbanization and industrialization. The study reveals that open dumping of municipal solid waste is causing significant environmental degradation, including land and water pollution, infectious diseases, and biodiversity loss. Key factors contributing to these issues include insufficient funding, poor waste management practices, non-implementation of legislation, and irresponsible behavior by residents. The research highlights the urgent need for improved waste management systems in small towns of developing countries to mitigate negative environmental impacts.

Soundscape variation in a historical city centre due to new traffic regulation

Historic Centre of Naples — 2012 — WHE327DEEDE0A

A new traffic regulation in Naples' historic center, the largest restricted traffic area (ZTL) in Europe, significantly altered the city's soundscape. This study found that while the ZTL aimed to improve sustainable mobility and quality of life, it also impacted auditory perception—an aspect often overlooked in urban renewal processes focused on tangible heritage. Through soundwalks conducted before and after implementing the ZTL, researchers analyzed variations in acoustical and environmental parameters, revealing how traffic restrictions can shape the intangible cultural soundscape of a World Heritage Site. These findings underscore the need to integrate auditory preservation into Management Plans for historic city centers, ensuring that interventions maintain both visual and sonic authenticity.

Spatial and Chronological Sketch of the Ancient City of Sambor Prei Kuk

Temple Zone of Sambor Prei Kuk, Archaeological Site of Ancient Ishanapura — 2012 — WHE1DC1395936

Recent archaeological investigations at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sambor Prei Kuk, identified as the ancient capital of the Chenla kingdom (Īśānapura), reveal previously unknown urban features that challenge and expand our understanding of its chronological occupation. While the 'Temple Zone' has been extensively studied since the early 20th century, new discoveries in the 'City Zone'—including brick sanctuaries, moats, ramparts, roads, basins, and dams—suggest that this area was not only occupied as early as the 7th century but also remained a significant regional center throughout the Angkorian period (until at least the 10th century). These findings, supported by epigraphic analysis of inscriptions, statues, lintels, and spatial distributions, indicate that Sambor Prei Kuk functioned as a dual-purpose site: a religious complex and an urban hub, bridging the gap between its early capital phase and its later role within the Angkorian empire. This recontextualizes the site's significance in Southeast Asian political and cultural history.

Stonehenge remodelled

Stonehenge, Avebury and Associated Sites — 2012 — WHE5BC5A239F7

A new chronology for Stonehenge's construction and burial sequence, anchored by Bayesian radiocarbon dating, reveals five distinct prehistoric stages. This study integrates excavation data with advanced modeling to propose a more precise timeline, linking the monument's evolution to neighboring sites in its vicinity. While absolute certainty remains elusive due to the site's complexity, this comprehensive approach significantly advances our understanding of Stonehenge's development, providing a robust foundation for future public engagement and research.

Strategies and Challenges of Tourist Facilities Management in the World Heritage Site: Case of the Maritime Greenwich, London

Maritime Greenwich — 2012 — WHECC6051C7EC

A significant gap exists between tourists' expectations and their satisfaction with facilities at the Maritime Greenwich World Heritage Site (MGWHS), highlighting critical areas for improvement without compromising its architectural and natural aesthetics. Key issues include sanitation, resting places, catering, accessibility for disabled individuals or parents with infants, and multilingual directional signage. The study employed a qualitative research method, specifically an explanatory case study, relying on primary data collected through semistructured interviews to identify these deficiencies and propose solutions. This research underscores the importance of balancing tourist facility management with the preservation of UNESCO World Heritage Site integrity.

Study on 3D Laser Scanning Measurement and Visual Expression Application in Suzhou Classical Gardens

Classical Gardens of Suzhou — 2012 — WHE86A86065EF

3D laser scanning technology emerges as a powerful tool for the accurate measurement and visual expression of Suzhou's classical gardens, offering significant potential for preserving their rich cultural heritage. This study demonstrates that such technology can capture detailed cloud data and process it into precise digital representations using AutoCAD software. By achieving high-fidelity 3D visualizations, researchers have shown that this method not only facilitates the documentation of garden architecture but also contributes to the long-term protection of these intangible cultural assets. The findings underscore the importance of integrating advanced digital techniques in heritage conservation efforts.

Su Nuraxi di Barumini: materiali ceramici dalla capanna 144

Su Nuraxi di Barumini — 2012 — WHECD99121AE4

A detailed analysis of ceramics from Room 144 at the UNESCO-listed Su Nuraxi di Barumini site suggests that this nuragic structure, dated to the Late Bronze Age II, primarily functioned as a kitchen. The study, based on excavation data from Lilliu (1951-1956), identified a high proportion of pottery linked to fire control and food preparation, supporting the hypothesis that Room 144 served this specialized purpose alongside other functions. Comparative analysis with published nuragic materials refined its chronological placement, contributing new insights into the functional organization of nuragic villages during this period.

Subsistence Whaling and the Norse Diaspora: Norsemen, Basques, and Whale Use in the Western North Atlantic, CA. AD 900–1640

Red Bay Basque Whaling Station — 2012 — WHE33CCE3825C

Between the 16th and early 17th centuries, Basque whalers established a network of whaling stations along the Strait of Belle Isle, with Red Bay as their primary hub. They harvested an estimated 20,000 to 40,000 whales, primarily right and bowhead species, capitalizing on the abundant marine resources brought by the cold Labrador Current. This subsistence whaling venture marked one of North America's earliest large-scale entrepreneurial efforts, blending Norse diaspora influences with Basque maritime traditions. The study reconstructs this historical whaling practice through archaeological evidence and documentary records, revealing its economic significance and ecological impact during a pivotal period in Atlantic history.

Sustainable Hospitality and Tourism as Motors for Development

Sundarbans National Park — 2012 — WHE3BEF025D80

Sustainable tourism can drive development while preserving biodiversity, as demonstrated by global case studies. The research highlights successful models such as community-based ecotourism in the Amazon and eco-lodges that integrate conservation with economic growth. It explores innovative approaches like integrated circuits for sustainable tourism planning, eco-retrofits in vulnerable regions (e.g., Sundarbans), and stakeholder perspectives in protected areas (e.g., Masai Mara). Key challenges—such as balancing luxury with sustainability or addressing rural ethnic tourism development—are also addressed. The study combines qualitative analyses of diverse projects, including private-communal partnerships, restoration preferences, and volunteer tourism models, to derive actionable insights for policymakers and industry stakeholders.

Técnicas Arqueométricas Combinadas Aplicadas al Análisis de Diseños de Alfarería "Tricolor" de Quebrada de Humahuaca, Jujuy, Argentina

Quebrada de Humahuaca — 2012 — WHEA04E3796CF

A combined application of archaeometric techniques has revealed significant insights into the design patterns of tricolor pottery from Quebrada de Humahuaca, Argentina. The study identified distinct stylistic elements and manufacturing processes that provide a deeper understanding of the cultural and technological practices of ancient societies in the region. By analyzing surface designs on ceramic fragments using advanced methods, researchers were able to trace the evolution of pottery styles and their potential symbolic or functional significance. This approach offers a novel way to interpret archaeological data, bridging gaps between material culture and historical context.

Temples et marques du pouvoir romain en Arabie romaine

Ancient City of Bosra — 2012 — WHE53C5E7D6D4

This study reveals that the Nabataeans, following the peaceful annexation of their kingdom by Rome in 106 AD, maintained architectural and religious autonomy despite Roman dominance. While Roman sanctuaries were established in Decapolis cities like Amman and Jerash, the Nabataeans integrated Graeco-Roman imagery into their temples while preserving Semitic worship practices. The research analyzes how this dual tradition—marked by both Roman influence and Nabataean continuity—reflects a strategy of cultural preservation and religious freedom within the newly formed Roman province of Arabia. The study also highlights the construction or embellishment of local sanctuaries, such as those in Khirbet edh-Dharih and Wadi Ramm, alongside the elevation of Petra to metropolis status, suggesting a complex interplay between Roman administrative power and Nabataean identity.

The 27–year decline of coral cover on the Great Barrier Reef and its causes

Great Barrier Reef — 2012 — WHEA3BA038109

A 27-year decline in coral cover on the Great Barrier Reef, from 28.0% to 13.8%, was driven primarily by tropical cyclones (48%), crown-of-thorns starfish predation (42%), and bleaching (10%), resulting in a mortality rate of 3.38% per year. Despite this decline, the northern region remained stable, and reefs demonstrated substantial recovery potential at 2.85% per year without these stressors. Reducing crown-of-thorns starfish populations through improved water quality and alternative control measures could mitigate further decline, but only if climate conditions are stabilized to curb increasing losses from bleaching and cyclones.

The case study of the Pátio dos Carrascos at the Convent of Christ. Archaeological record of the recovery project

Convent of Christ in Tomar — 2012 — WHE3748E5A8D6

Archaeological excavations at the Pátio dos Carrascos, part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Convent of Christ in Tomar, revealed significant insights into the site's construction and reuse phases. The study, conducted in July 2010 as preliminary work for a restoration project, utilized advanced methodologies including traditional drawings, rectified photography, and point cloud extractions to document all excavation stages with precision. These techniques enabled the post-production of detailed records, capturing the evolution of the site's architecture across multiple phases. The findings contribute valuable data for conservation efforts and computational analysis, enhancing our understanding of this historic monument's architectural history.

The coexistence of Baird's tapir (Tapirus bairdii) and indigenous hunters in northeastern Honduras

Río Plátano Biosphere Reserve — 2012 — WHE0623AC9AD3

Indigenous hunters in northeastern Honduras play a crucial role in the survival of Baird's tapir (Tapirus bairdii), despite hunting rates exceeding sustainable levels. The study, conducted over four months within the Río Plátano Biosphere Reserve, mapped hunting zones and interviewed community members to understand tapir harvesting patterns. Findings reveal that tapirs persist near communities due to the presence of unhunted forest areas and anthropogenic habitats created by shifting cultivation. This suggests that indigenous hunters may contribute positively to tapir conservation across its range, challenging assumptions about human-wildlife conflict in endangered species management.

The Contribution of IslamicWaqfto Managing the Conservation of Buildings in the Historic Stone Town of Zanzibar

Stone Town of Zanzibar — 2012 — WHE29796EB60E

A resilient management system rooted in Islamic waqf traditions effectively shields historic buildings from external threats, ensuring their long-term survival. This study examines the Stone Town of Zanzibarwhere waqf structures provide financial and operational frameworks that adapt to economic, political, and human pressures. By analyzing waqf's governance, financing, and maintenance practices, researchers found that its ability to evolve with prevailing conditions acts as a critical safeguard against degradation. Unlike conventional conservation models, this approach emphasizes proactive protection over reactive maintenance, offering a sustainable blueprint for preserving cultural heritage.

The dialectics of functional and historical morphology in the evolution of a city: the case of the Stone Town of Zanzibar

Stone Town of Zanzibar — 2012 — WHE964BEB42E4

A study of the Stone Town of Zanzibar reveals that its axial street structure has remained a consistent force shaping urban functions despite significant historical and socio-political changes. The research found that the town's syntactic centrality, analyzed through Space Syntax techniques, evolved in distinct phases but maintained a diffused pattern influencing current land use, ownership, building classifications, and streetscape elements. This dialectical relationship between history and function offers an enriched methodology for understanding urban morphological processes, bridging historical specificity with generic spatial analysis. The findings contribute to both urban theory and historical research by emphasizing the interplay between design and power politics in traditional cities.