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Showing 13101 – 13120 of 15962 publications

Review of UNESCO’s World Heritage Nomination Files (WHNF), Building Information Modelling (BIM) and Heritage Building Information Modelling (HBIM)

Historic Jeddah, the Gate to Makkah — 2020 — WHE11E29DEB26

Historic Jeddah, 'Gate to Makkah,' demonstrates how Building Information Modelling (BIM) and Heritage BIM (HBIM) can enhance UNESCO World Heritage nominations by improving documentation and project management. The study highlights the importance of meeting UNESCO's criteria for Outstanding Universal Value, which includes cultural significance and conservation challenges. By analyzing Jeddah’s nomination file, the research underscores BIM’s potential to streamline heritage preservation efforts, benefiting stakeholders such as architects, engineers, and site managers. This approach supports UNESCO’s mission by ensuring accurate, sustainable, and culturally sensitive conservation practices.

Revision of Leocrates Kinberg, 1866 and Leocratides Ehlers, 1908 (Annelida, Errantia, Hesionidae)

Archipiélago de Revillagigedo — 2020 — WHE0FA28EDA2C

A comprehensive taxonomic revision of the hesionid annelid genera Leocrates and Leocratides reveals significant morphological diversity, leading to the reclassification of species into five distinct genera. The study identifies three new genus-group names—Paradalhousia, Paralamprophaea, and Paraleocrates—and reinstates Dalhousia and Lamprophaea as separate genera, correcting previous synonymizations proposed by Marian Pettibone. Key morphological features such as nuchal organs lobes, pharyngeal armature, and neurochaetal blades were standardized to distinguish species. The revision describes 18 new species from various World localities, including the Revillagigedo Islands, and provides identification keys for all hesioninae genera and species. This work challenges long-standing taxonomic assumptions and enhances our understanding of annelid biodiversity.

Revitalization of the Penitentiary Complexes in the Historic Centre of Florence

Historic Centre of Florence — 2020 — WHE19E9940A85

A revitalization project has transformed the historic Murate Prison complex, formerly part of Santa Croce in Florence, into a new multifunctional social center. This initiative builds upon the 15th-century monastic foundations that originally housed these penitentiary institutions, which have occupied a significant portion of the site for over a century. The study analyzes the project's outcomes and its broader significance for the city, highlighting how repurposing such heritage structures can foster community engagement while preserving architectural history. By integrating modern social functions into a preserved historic framework, this approach offers a model for sustainable urban revitalization in UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Rheological change and degassing during a trachytic Vulcanian eruption at Kilian Volcano, Chaîne des Puys, France

Chaîne des Puys - Limagne fault tectonic arena — 2020 — WHE351F9AC107

Trachytic magmas, such as those erupted at Kilian Volcano in France's Chaîne des Puys, exhibit unique rheological behaviors that influence effusive-explosive transitions during Vulcanian eruptions. This study reveals that trachytes can erupt explosively at higher ascent rates than more evolved subalkaline dacitic or rhyolitic magmas due to their distinct properties: high water solubility and diffusivity, rapid microlite growth, and lower melt viscosity. The research combines chemical and textural analyses of tephra with viscosity models to demonstrate how effusive activity transitions to explosive phases through processes like volatile loss, crystallization, and pore space sealing. These findings suggest that the periodicity of eruptive styles in trachytic volcanoes may differ from better-studied andesitic or rhyolitic systems, with implications for volcanic hazard assessment.

Rheophilic Macrozoobenthos Communities in the Western Tien Shan

Western Tien-Shan — 2020 — WHE34DCB44874

Rheophilic macrozoobenthos communities in the Western Tien Shan exhibit structural similarities to those found in other Palearctic regions, with altitudinal zonation playing a key role. The study identified 23 community types across three altitude zones (1000–3700 m), grouped into five classes based on substrate and flow characteristics. Communities in low mountains resemble those in southern Palearctic regions like the Caucasus and Balkans, while middle mountain communities align with low Arctic regions such as the Kola Peninsula and Yamal. High-altitude communities mirror those of the high Arctic (e.g., Svalbard), suggesting that altitudinal and latitudinal zonation similarly influence lotic community structure, primarily driven by summer water temperature. This finding was derived from 370 quantitative samples analyzed to assess composition and structure across different zones.

Rhinoceros in Kaziranga National Park

Kaziranga National Park — 2020 — WHEF263C0A724

Kaziranga National Park, renowned for its great one-horned rhinoceros population, faces intense political and conservation debates that threaten the coexistence of agrarian communities with its ecological landscape. The study reveals how governmental institutions and public rhetoric increasingly alienate local communities, while legal prescriptions aim to eliminate human influences from the park. This approach overlooks the region's complex ecological, historical, and political realities, setting a problematic tone for governance. By analyzing the historical evolution of Kaziranga National Park, the research highlights the need for a more nuanced understanding that balances conservation goals with the rights and livelihoods of agrarian communities.

Risk Assessment of Rock Falls Released from the Former Quarry Near Spitz (Austria)

Wachau Cultural Landscape — 2020 — WHEAEB6809C80

A comprehensive risk assessment of rock falls from the former quarry near Spitz, Austria, reveals significant potential for future detachment scenarios that could endanger critical infrastructure, including a railway, bicycle route, road, and Danube riverbank. The study employed simulations using the Distinct Element Code 3DEC to model possible rockslide events, estimating their damage potential while analyzing weather patterns and historical occurrence data to determine probability. By calculating risk as the product of damage likelihood and occurrence probability, researchers identified scenarios that pose substantial threats, providing a foundation for evaluating mitigation measures such as retaining structures anchored by bored piles.

Rituals of the Past: Prehispanic and Colonial Case Studies in Andean Archaeology

Chavin (Archaeological Site) — 2020 — WHEE5228084F4

Rituals of the Past: Prehispanic and Colonial Case Studies in Andean Archaeology reveals that ritual practices, despite being overlooked by archaeologists, are archaeologically visible due to their repetitive nature. The volume demonstrates how these rituals were embedded in power relations, social transformations, and daily practices across pre-Hispanic, colonial, and postcolonial Andes. It employs a diverse range of methodologies, including excavation-based approaches, spatial and GIS data analysis, ethnohistorical, historical, and linguistic data, showcasing the interpretive potential of an interdisciplinary perspective. The study highlights significant temporal and methodological scope, spanning from 1200 BC to contemporary times, with a focus on ritual spaces at Chavin de Huantar and other sites.

Roadkill of birds in Galapagos Islands: a growing need for solutions

Galápagos Islands — 2020 — WHEB3DA93A53A

A significant increase in bird roadkill on the Galápagos Islands highlights urgent conservation challenges. The study, published in Avian Conservation and Ecology, found that road mortality poses a growing threat to native bird populations, particularly in areas with rising vehicle traffic. Researchers analyzed roadkill data to assess patterns and risks, emphasizing the need for targeted mitigation strategies. Their findings underscore the importance of proactive measures, such as wildlife crossings or traffic management, to protect these vulnerable species. This work provides critical insights into the impact of infrastructure development on biodiversity in UNESCO-listed sites like the Galápagos.

Robert Owen’s Experiment at New Lanark: From Paternalism to Socialism

New Lanark — 2020 — WHE4BAA98BB38

Owen's experiment at New Lanark, often celebrated as a model of enlightened paternalism and early socialism, is revealed to be more complex and contentious. While Owen's reforms improved working conditions and fostered community cohesion, they were met with significant resistance from workers, who rejected his authoritarian leadership style and intrusion into their private lives. Siméon challenges the dominant narrative by highlighting the limitations of Owen's reforms, the paucity of firsthand accounts, and the seeds of failure inherent in his paternalistic approach. This micro-historical study, using newly available archival material, provides a nuanced corrective to rose-tinted accounts of New Lanark.

Robert Owen’s quest for the ‘new moral world’ in a non-industrialized country

New Lanark — 2020 — WHE6A24292244

Robert Owen's influence on Spanish socialism in the 19th century was more significant than previously recognized, particularly through education and cooperative movements. While his ideas did not transform Spain's largely agricultural society, they gained notable attention and contributed to the formation of workers' cooperatives in Valencia and Madrid during the 1850s and 60s. The study highlights the role of Pablo Montesino in spreading Owen's concepts in education and reveals that Ramón de Sagra may have been a more influential advocate for Owen's ideas than previously understood, based on their epistolary relationship.

Rock strength properties of granitic rocks in Yosemite Valley, Yosemite National Park, California

Yosemite National Park — 2020 — WHE4EAD7B4739

A significant rock fall of 9,811 cubic meters from El Capitan's southeast face in Yosemite Valley on September 28, 2017, highlighted the need for detailed analysis of granitic rock strength properties. The study, conducted by Collins et al. (2020), focused on understanding the mechanical behavior of these rocks to assess their stability and potential hazards. Researchers employed a combination of field observations, laboratory tests, and numerical modeling to evaluate factors influencing rock fall events. Their findings provide critical insights for risk assessment and management in Yosemite National Park, where granitic rocks are prone to large-scale collapses due to geological and environmental stresses.

Rocky Cultural - Historical Heritage "The Holy Path"

Rila Monastery — 2020 — WHEC11C4D68D2

A comprehensive examination of the pilgrim route known as 'The Holy Path,' which traces the journey of St. Ivan (John) of Rila's relics from 1469, reveals a rich tapestry of karst regions and rock-hewn cultural-historical heritage. This path, spanning diverse geographical and historical landscapes, offers significant potential for preservation and digitalization to enhance its attractiveness and educational value. The study emphasizes the importance of documenting and analyzing this route to ensure its long-term conservation and exposure, thereby contributing to both academic research and public engagement with Bulgaria's cultural heritage.

Rocky pine forests in the High Coast Region in Sweden: structure, dynamics and history

High Coast / Kvarken Archipelago — 2020 — WHEA132BE4367

Rocky pine forests in Sweden's High Coast Region exhibit old-growth characteristics with low human impact, featuring diverse tree structures, frequent fires every 40 years, and dead wood dating back over 300 years. These forests, representing a regionally common yet understudied natural forest type, were analyzed through measurements of tree sizes, ages, fire scars, and dead wood volumes across eight sites. The study found sparse but varied tree layers with some trees exceeding 300 years in age, alongside low but ecologically significant dead wood volumes (4.4 m³/ha). Fires, primarily occurring between 1500-1900, were often small-scale and site-specific. These findings underscore the forests' naturalness and value as habitats for sun-exposed dead wood-dependent organisms, suggesting that restoration fires could be a viable management strategy while protecting existing dead wood.

Rodents as potential hosts and reservoirs of parasites along the edge of a Central African forest: Bwindi impenetrable national park, South Western Uganda

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park — 2020 — WHE8C000A91DB

A study in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda, reveals that rodents—comprising 42% of the world's mammalian population—serve as significant reservoirs for zoonotic parasites. Researchers captured 288 rodents from 24 species, finding high infestation rates with ectoparasites (mites, fleas, ticks) and endoparasites (including Nippostrongylus, Ascaris, and Cryptosporidium). Proamys jacksoni rodents showed the highest parasite burden, while Lophuromys aquilus was most abundant. The findings underscore rodents' zoonotic potential, particularly near human settlements adjacent to protected areas, and highlight the need for integrated rodent management strategies to mitigate parasite transmission risks to both wildlife—such as mountain gorillas—and humans.

Roger II of Sicily

Arab-Norman Palermo and the Cathedral Churches of Cefalú and Monreale — 2020 — WHE9AFD6D4152

Roger II of Sicily's ritual coronation on December 25, 1130, and its symbolic representation in the Martorana Church mosaic, reveal a strategic blend of tradition, multiculturalism, and Christocentric imagery. This analysis demonstrates how Roger II leveraged visual language—comprehensible across Arab, Norman, Greek, and Latin cultures—to legitimize his monarchy while reflecting his inclusive governance. The study highlights his respect for Muslim subjects and assimilation of diverse cultural traditions, setting a precedent for the universalist politics of his grandson Frederick II. By examining historical sources and iconography, this research underscores Sicily's unique heritage as a multicultural and multiethnic kingdom.

Role of culture in the emotional response towards komodo dragon in Komodo and Rinca Islands of Komodo National Park

Komodo National Park — 2020 — WHE397FCC1C8F

A significant finding from this study is that cultural beliefs and values play a crucial role in shaping local communities' emotional responses towards Komodo dragons, thereby influencing conservation support. While 98.5% of respondents considered the dragons dangerous, 60.6% of Komodo villagers held positive perceptions, contrasting with 47.6% moderate perceptions among Rinca villagers. This difference is attributed to distinct cultural attachments; Komodo villagers perceive dragons as 'cousins' and thus avoid harming them, while Rinca villagers, being migrants, lack such connections. Consequently, Komodo villagers showed higher coexistence beliefs (83%) and conservation support (81.5%) compared to Rinca villagers (65.3%). The study highlights the importance of integrating local cultural values in wildlife conservation efforts.

Role of destination smartness in shaping tourist satisfaction: A SEM based on technological attributes in Sri Lanka

Ancient City of Sigiriya — 2020 — WHEC58837B161

Smart tourism significantly enhances tourist satisfaction, particularly through the integration of mobile technology and smartphone functionalities. A study on Sri Lankan tourists visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Sigiriya revealed that smart features—such as information search, communication, entertainment, social networking, and mobility-related tools—play a pivotal role in shaping positive travel experiences. Using structural equation modeling (SEM) with 1,052 respondents across multiple districts, researchers found partial mediation effects between smart tourism attributes and satisfaction, highlighting the potential for Sri Lanka to develop as a competitive smart tourist destination. This insight underscores the importance of embedding technology within destinations to enrich visitor experiences and bolster global competitiveness.

Role of the Traditional Masonry Corporation in the Process of Reconstruction of the Destroyed Mausolees in Timbuktu, Mali

Timbuktu — 2020 — WHEA648CD92F6

A participatory reconstruction strategy, involving traditional masons and local communities, successfully restored the destroyed mausoleums of Timbuktu while preserving technical mastery and ritual practices. The approach, implemented from 2013 to 2015 under UNESCO's Action Plan for Mali's cultural heritage, empowered local artisans through collaboration with national and international architects. This method not only rehabilitated key World Heritage Sites but also highlighted the significance of traditional masonry in maintaining Timbuktu's architectural legacy.

Roman Hydraulic Engineering: The Pont du Gard Aqueduct and Nemausus (Nîmes) Castellum

Pont du Gard (Roman Aqueduct) — 2020 — WHE2384D32572

A new analysis of the Pont du Gard aqueduct's terminal water distribution castellum reveals that Roman engineers employed advanced hydraulic principles to optimize water flow. By applying modern critical flow theory, researchers discovered that the 10 basin wall pipelines were designed to maximize output flow rates while closely matching the input from the aqueduct. The three drainage floor ports further fine-tuned this balance, demonstrating a sophisticated integration of engineering and aesthetics typical of Roman values. This study bridges the gap between descriptive archaeological accounts and the underlying engineering knowledge, offering unprecedented insights into Roman hydraulic innovation.