World Heritage Research: Search

Publications

Showing 3961 – 3980 of 4230 publications

Bats of Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado: Composition, Reproduction, and Roosting Habits

Mesa Verde National Park — 2011 — WHE0D5078ADFE

A comprehensive study of the bat fauna at Mesa Verde National Park revealed that 14 species, representing nearly all known bat species west of the Great Plains in Colorado, inhabit the park. The research found significant variations in reproductive rates linked to spring precipitation, with drought conditions potentially impacting bat populations more severely due to forecasted climate changes. Notably, radiotracking identified rock crevices as the primary roosting habitat for five species, contrasting with their known use of trees in other regions. No drastic shifts in bat community composition were observed following recent stand-replacing fires, suggesting resilience or adaptability.

Biogeochemical responses of two alpine lakes to climate change and atmospheric deposition, Jasper and Banff National parks, Canadian Rocky Mountains

Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks — 2011 — WHEA8793AE0CE

Alpine lakes in the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks exhibit distinct biogeochemical responses to climate change and atmospheric deposition, revealing varied ecological impacts over the past 500 years. Curator Lake in Jasper shows strong sensitivity to thermal stratification driven by warming, with no significant changes in reactive nitrogen (Nr) cycling. In contrast, McConnell Lake in Banff demonstrates a complex response mediated by glacial activity and Nr inputs, underscoring the diverse limnological effects of abiotic stressors on similar ecosystems. The study combines paleoecological measures—such as primary production and diatom community structure—with geochemical proxies to trace these changes, providing critical insights into the ecological footprint of recent environmental transformations in mountain park environments.

Birds Consumed by the Invasive Burmese Python ( Python molurus bivittatus ) in Everglades National Park, Florida, USA

Everglades National Park — 2011 — WHEDE92326E2B

A study of 85 Burmese pythons (Python molurus bivittatus) in Everglades National Park, Florida, revealed that these invasive snakes prey on at least 25 bird species from nine avian orders. Among the identified prey were four species of special concern in Florida and one federally endangered species, the Wood Stork (Mycteria americana). This research provides the first detailed analysis of the avian component of the Burmese python's diet, underscoring its potential significant impact on native bird populations in the park.

Butrint in the mid-Byzantine period: a new interpretation

Butrint — 2011 — WHE903C55846B

Recent excavations at Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site on Albania's southwest coast, have uncovered significant evidence that reshapes our understanding of the site during its mid-Byzantine period (8th–15th century). The study, focusing on the Western Defences of the Lower City, reveals new insights into the construction and occupation phases of this fortified area. By analyzing layers of archaeological data, researchers propose a revised chronology for Butrint's Byzantine era, highlighting its strategic importance and adaptive reuse over centuries. This work builds on decades of excavations, including recent collaborations between the Butrint Foundation, the Albanian Institute of Archaeology, and the University of East Anglia.

Chapter 20. Philippi

Archaeological Site of Philippi — 2011 — WHEAB5F3F06FF

The archaeological site of Philippi reveals a significant cultural continuity between the Hellenistic and Roman periods, with no traces found of Thasian colonial structures built between 360-356 BC. Leon Heuzey's 1860 expedition marked its first systematic investigation, uncovering evidence that Augustus' Colonia Iulia Augusta Philippensis maintained urban organization aligned with its Hellenistic predecessor. This Roman colony thrived as a key administrative and agricultural center, controlling extensive surrounding lands through Neapolis port.

Chemical Characterization and Source Apportionment of Fine and Coarse Particulate Matter Inside the Refectory of Santa Maria Delle Grazie Church, Home of Leonardo Da Vinci’s “Last Supper”

Church and Dominican Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie with “The Last Supper” by Leonardo da Vinci — 2011 — WHE77FAB2FF8B

A year-long study at the Church and Dominican Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan revealed that indoor particulate matter (PM) concentrations were significantly lower than outdoor levels, with PM2.5 and PM2.5-10 reduced by 88% and 94%, respectively, primarily due to an effective ventilation system. While gasoline vehicles, urban soil, and wood smoke contributed minimally to indoor organic carbon (OC), fatty acids and squalane showed high indoor-to-outdoor concentration ratios, suggesting a dominant indoor source. This research highlights the role of both outdoor pollution infiltration and indoor emissions in affecting cultural heritage, offering insights for conservation strategies.

Collections management at the Joggins Fossils Cliffs UNESCO World Heritage Site: a new model?

Joggins Fossil Cliffs — 2011 — WHE80FBCB3823

A pioneering collaborative model for managing geological and palaeontological collections at the Joggins Fossil Cliffs UNESCO World Heritage Site has been developed, bridging the efforts of a non-profit organization (Joggins Fossil Institute) and a governmental institution (Nova Scotia Museum). This innovative approach leverages provincial legislation to create a robust data management system (Mini-MIMS) and an accessible public database. The model emphasizes partnership, ensuring sustainable curation while making scientific collections more transparent and available for research and education.

Comment on ‘García‐Santos G, Bruijnzeel LA. 2011. Rainfall, fog and throughfall dynamics in a subtropical ridge top cloud forest, National Park of Garajonay (La Gomera, Canary Islands, Spain). Hydrological Processes 25: 411–417’

Garajonay National Park — 2011 — WHE754943B051

A critical evaluation of a 2011 study on hydrological dynamics in Garajonay National Park's cloud forest reveals significant discrepancies with prior research at the site. The study, which analyzed rainfall, fog, and throughfall data from an upper watershed plot, was found to have methodological limitations—including large data dispersion and flawed assumptions—that undermined its conclusions. These issues cast doubt on the reported magnitudes of hydrological variables, highlighting the need for rigorous validation in future research. Published as a comment in Hydrological Processes, this analysis underscores the importance of robust methodologies in studying subtropical cloud forests.

Communication at the Abbey of St. Gall

Abbey of St Gall — 2011 — WHECFC2CE9C24

Monastic culture at the Abbey of St. Gall, traditionally viewed as highly literate, relied on a diverse and sophisticated range of communicative practices that went beyond written media. This volume challenges the perception that oral communication was secondary to literacy in medieval monastic settings, demonstrating instead that monks and nuns frequently used spoken word as a vital complement to other forms of communication for exchanging information. The research compiles five thematic chapters that explore the contexts in which oral communication played a crucial role, revealing its complexity and significance in monastic practices during the central Middle Ages.

Contribución de los cafetales bajo sombra en la conservación de murciélagos en la Antigua Guatemala, Guatemala

Antigua Guatemala — 2011 — WHE93196E7A3F

A study in Antigua Guatemala revealed that shaded coffee plantations, while supporting a diverse array of bat species, may not fully function as ecological corridors for forest-dwelling bats. Researchers found that while both shaded coffee plantations and remaining forest habitats hosted 12 bat species, the composition differed significantly: plantations favored generalist frugivorous species like Artibeus, Dermanura, and Sturnira, whereas forests harbored more specialized and landscape-sensitive species such as Phyllostomus discolor and Myotis keaysi. Despite no significant difference in overall diversity between habitats, the study estimated a 42% complementarity index, suggesting limited overlap in bat communities. This indicates that while shaded coffee plantations contribute to bat conservation, they may not effectively connect forest patches for certain species.

Crossing trails in the marshes: rigidity and flexibility in the governance of the Danube Delta

Danube Delta — 2011 — WHE8C53844AC6

Environmental governance in the Danube Delta is shaped by rigid path dependencies and flexible interdependencies, with direct citizen participation alone risking reinforcement of informal institutions. The study combines path dependence theory and social systems theory to analyze governance evolution, revealing that effective reforms require collaboration across multiple institutions rather than isolated citizen engagement. This insight challenges conventional approaches to participatory governance in UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Danube Delta.

Deforestation and forest degradation in the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve, Mexico, 2003–2009

Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve — 2011 — WHE24E2A167B6

Between 2003 and 2009, the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve in Mexico experienced significant forest degradation and deforestation, with 2152 hectares affected, primarily due to illegal logging by organized gangs. These changes were concentrated in four specific areas outside the Payment for Environmental Services (PES) program and zones of land conflicts. Notably, degradation decreased where logging declined, particularly on properties included in the PES program or where exploitation permits had expired. The study used digital aerial photographs and satellite images to analyze biennial changes, revealing a trend of decreasing disturbances by 2011, attributed to the PES program, promotion of productive activities, and social work in the area.

Degradation of stone materials in the Greek–Roman Hadrianic Baths in Leptis Magna (Libya)

Archaeological Site of Leptis Magna — 2011 — WHE4766BB58C6

Severe weathering, including honeycomb formation and biological damage, is significantly degrading the limestone and marble structures of Leptis Magna's Hadrianic Baths. This study identifies multiple deterioration factors—such as salt weathering, moisture, temperature fluctuations, and microbial activity—that contribute to structural degradation in this marine climate. The research characterizes the building materials affected by these processes, providing insights into their vulnerability and potential conservation strategies.

Delineating Locals: Transformations of Knowledge/Power and the Governance of the Danube Delta

Danube Delta — 2011 — WHE7A6F5261D4

Governance policies for the Danube Delta co-create a marginalized 'local' identity, shaped by power/knowledge dynamics that silence and exoticize communities. This study reveals how policies, emerging from multiple government levels, evolve through constant interaction with other power structures, leading to the subjugation of local actors. Using a Foucauldian framework, it analyzes policy emergence, enactment, and implementation to highlight the implications for participatory natural resource governance. The findings underscore the need to recognize and address these processes in environmental management strategies.

Detection of Delamination in Wall Paintings by Ground Penetrating Radar

Historic Ensemble of the Potala Palace, Lhasa — 2011 — WHED846D65D84

Ground penetrating radar (GPR) emerges as a powerful tool for detecting delamination in wall paintings, particularly in culturally significant sites like the Potala Palace. Delamination, a prevalent issue causing separation between plaster and support surfaces, poses severe threats to the integrity of ancient murals, often leading to surface cracks or complete paint loss. This study highlights GPR's effectiveness in identifying such structural weaknesses, which affect over 75% of wall paintings in Tibetan heritage sites due to environmental degradation, biological factors, and material aging. By analyzing electromagnetic wave behavior through different media, the research provides a non-invasive method for conservationists to assess and monitor delamination risks without physical damage.

East Rennell World Heritage Site: misunderstandings, inconsistencies and opportunities in the implementation of the World Heritage Convention in the Pacific Islands

East Rennell — 2011 — WHEF1EC9FCCE7

East Rennell World Heritage Site, the first inscribed under natural criteria with customary ownership and management, reveals tensions between conservation goals and the 'beauty pageant' aspects of UNESCO's World Heritage Convention. Community dissatisfaction stems from inconsistencies in inscription requirements, highlighting a disconnect between international heritage standards and local customary practices in Pacific Island states. The study explores these dynamics through a case analysis, emphasizing the need for alignment between global conservation frameworks and traditional land tenure systems.

Ecotourism Opportunities and Challenges in Butrint, Albania, a Unique UNESCO and Ramsar Site

Butrint — 2011 — WHEFA87834301

Butrint National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1992 and a Ramsar site since 2003, presents significant ecotourism potential due to its unique combination of geographical position, landscape, biodiversity, and rich cultural heritage. The park is the most visited by foreign tourists in Albania, with opportunities for year-round visitation through activities like birdwatching, walking trails, biking, and scuba-diving. However, uncontrolled human activities such as illegal urbanization, wetland reclamation, mining, irrational marine aquaculture, hunting, excessive grazing, and fires pose substantial threats to these ecotourism opportunities. The study recommends strategies to mitigate these challenges and maximize the park's potential for sustainable ecotourism development.

Egyptianizing Figurines from Delos

Delos — 2011 — WHED00407CB24

Hellenistic reinterpretations of Egyptian religion are illuminated through the study of terracotta figurines depicting Egyptian deities, primarily found in domestic contexts on Delos. Analysis reveals that many figurines represent deities or rituals linked to Egyptian festivals, as indicated by comparisons with religious texts, temple reliefs, and ritual objects. Most figurines were locally produced on Delos, as shown by clay fabric analysis and manufacturing techniques. Additionally, archival research on early excavation notes provides new insights into the archaeological contexts of these figurines, highlighting their roles in both domestic and temple cults. This study offers a novel perspective on the dynamic interaction between 'popular' and 'official' cults during the Hellenistic period.

Enlightening the World: The Creation of the Statue of Liberty

Statue of Liberty — 2011 — WHE523394CAF5

A dual-track analysis reveals the Statue of Liberty's creation as both a product of cosmopolitan elites and a symbol of American political modernity. The study reconciles social history with intellectual history, highlighting key figures—including Emma Lazarus—and the statue's ideological significance: constitutional government, participatory politics, individual liberty, and enlightenment. This approach merges personal narratives with national symbolism, tracing the 21-year journey from conception to unveiling in October 1886 on Liberty Island.

Estimating the population structure of Javan rhinos (Rhinoceros sondaicus) in Ujung Kulon National Park using the mark- recapture method based on video and camera trap identification

Ujung Kulon National Park — 2011 — WHEFD0A7CB3E7

A population estimate of 32 Javan rhinos (Rhinoceros sondaicus), ranging from 29 to 47 individuals, was derived for Ujung Kulon National Park using the mark-recapture method based on video and camera trap identifications. The study, conducted between April 2008 and September 2009, applied the CAPTURE software to select the best-fit estimator (M(th)), yielding a 95% confidence interval. Visual identification further revealed a male-biased sex ratio of approximately 3:2 (males to females) and indicated a slow annual population growth rate of about 1%. The findings highlight the park's role as a critical stronghold for this critically endangered species, emphasizing the need for targeted conservation efforts to address demographic imbalances and support sustainable growth.