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Showing 13961 – 13980 of 15962 publications

The Evolution of Cultural Space in a World Heritage Site: Tourism Sustainable Development of Mount Wuyi, China

Mount Wuyi — 2019 — WHEA28F963EB5

Mount Wuyi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in China, exhibits a dynamic evolution of its tea cultural space driven by market forces and cultural development. A study analyzing data from 1996 to 2017 using the vector autoregressive model revealed that culture was the most influential factor in this evolution, while market supply and demand acted as the strongest exogenous drivers. The research identified a multi-stranded interactive evolutionary model, offering insights into the sustainable development of tourism destinations and World Heritage Sites. This finding underscores the importance of balancing cultural preservation with economic growth to ensure long-term sustainability.

The formation of the monastic communal living traditions in the Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius

Architectural Ensemble of the Trinity Sergius Lavra in Sergiev Posad — 2019 — WHE9C6AA7A3A2

The Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, a pivotal monastery in Medieval Rus, saw the revival of communal living traditions under the leadership of St. Sergius of Radonezh. This study reconstructs aspects of the monks' daily life, highlighting their routines, obedience, nutrition, and clothing while analyzing deviations from monastic standards. Using historical anthropological and hermeneutic approaches, the research identifies internal and external factors shaping these traditions, offering insights into the embodiment of Christian ideals and the continuity of lost practices. The findings underscore the significance of St. Sergius's role in restoring and enhancing monastic life principles.

The Gold in the Mosaics of Ravenna

Early Christian Monuments of Ravenna — 2019 — WHED3B3D63604

Ravenna's early Christian monuments, particularly their mosaics, showcase a significant evolution in artistic expression and ideological representation. The study reveals that the use of gold leaf tesserae in these mosaics was not merely decorative but served as a powerful symbol to convey the light of transcendence, the glory of Christ, and the authority of the Catholic Church. This shift from naturalistic representations to golden backgrounds marks a clear transition in artistic style and religious symbolism, reflecting the anti-Arian sentiment prevalent during the time of Arian ruler Theodorico's reign. The research highlights Ravenna as a unique site to observe these changes, given that many similar monuments in the Orient were destroyed for ideological reasons. The analysis of materials—including glass, stone, ceramic, marble, and mother-of-pearl—demonstrates the intricate craftsmanship and chromatic sensitivity employed by mosaicists.

The ground-penetrating radar (GPR) method in the characterization of the Monastery of Batalha

Monastery of Batalha — 2019 — WHE9667F5BDE9

Ground-penetrating radar (GPR) revealed hidden structures and historical details within the Monastery of Batalha, offering critical insights for preservation efforts. The non-destructive method provided high-resolution 2D/3D images, identifying ancient foundations, columns, and archaeological features, including those in the Cloister of D. João I and the Church. GPR's efficiency allowed for rapid data acquisition, contributing to a proposed inner structure model of the walls. These findings underscore its potential as a valuable tool for conservation, recovery, and rehabilitation of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The impact of social classes on the residential heritage Buildings Erbil Citadel as a case study

Erbil Citadel — 2019 — WHE1ED6714C9A

A study on the Erbil Citadel reveals that social class divisions significantly influenced the design of residential buildings, supporting the hypothesis that class distinctions shape architectural heritage. The research, employing a historical and analytical approach, examined three distinct regions within the citadel—Saray, Takiya, and Topkhana—reflecting Ottoman Empire social stratification until 1918. Findings indicate that economic, professional, lifestyle, and cultural factors underpinning class differences translated into architectural variations in residential structures. The study's two-part methodology first explored theoretical aspects of social layering and historical context, followed by an analysis of how these dynamics manifested in the citadel's design. This work contributes to understanding the interplay between societal structures and tangible heritage preservation.

The Kambārī  in the Museum of the Frankincense Land, Salalah, Oman

Land of Frankincense — 2019 — WHE6CE6146EC1

A rare surviving example of the kambārī, a sewn-plank boat historically used for fishing and lightering in Dhofar, Oman, is documented in detail. This vessel, one of only five known to exist, provides valuable insights into traditional maritime craftsmanship in the region. The study presents an accurate pictorial record and analysis of its construction, contextualizing it within similar vessels found in Oman, South Yemen, and Somalia. By examining this 1980-built kambārī housed at the Museum of the Frankincense Land in Salalah, researchers contribute to the understanding of historical maritime practices in the Frankincense Trail.

The Location where Narmer probably buried

Archaeological Ruins of Liangzhu City — 2019 — WHE4EA7833306

A groundbreaking analysis suggests that the Archaeological Ruins of Liangzhu City, particularly its Fanshan Cemetery and Yaoshan Hill, may have been a burial site for King Narmer of ancient Egypt. The study draws parallels between the DNA haplogroups found in the region and those in Egypt, as well as similarities in architectural structures like Mojiaoshan Terrace resembling ziggurats. Additionally, it proposes that the Liangzhu culture area was once an Egyptian colony based on shared burial practices, divine emblems, and symbolic artifacts. The research also hypothesizes that Narmer's tomb in Umm el-Qa'ab may have been a cenotaph, with Fanshan Cemetery serving as his initial intended resting place before being relocated to Mount Kuaiji.

The marae of Taputapuātea (Ra’iatea, Society Islands) in 2016: nature, age and origin of coral erected stones

Taputapuātea — 2019 — WHEAEF10908E7

Research on the Taputapuātea marae in Ra'iatea, Society Islands, reveals that its erected stones are fossilized microatolls—corals (Porites) that thrived during a Holocene sea level 0.80 meters higher than today, dating back 3 to 5 millennia. These findings challenge prior descriptions of the stones as mere 'limestone slabs,' highlighting their biological origin and ancient context. U/Th dating of 38 samples, including microatolls and coral fill blocks, also confirms that the marae's construction occurred between the 17th and 18th centuries. The study suggests that Polynesians likely collected these fossilized remains from the site, leaving others still buried underground.

The Old Summer Palace and the Rhetoric of National Treasures

Summer Palace, an Imperial Garden in Beijing — 2019 — WHE10D373B573

A critical analysis of the Old Summer Palace reveals how its designation as a national treasure is constructed through rhetorical strategies, shaping its cultural and legal significance. The study examines how narratives surrounding the site's historical value influence its preservation and public perception, highlighting tensions between heritage conservation and political discourse. Gillman employs discourse analysis to dissect official documents, legal texts, and media representations, uncovering the ideological underpinnings of its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This approach underscores the interplay between cultural memory, national identity, and the instrumentalization of heritage for political ends.

The Parthenon Treasury on the Acropolis of Athens

Acropolis, Athens — 2019 — WHE3E1DB70D1A

A critical reassessment of the Parthenon Treasury on the Acropolis of Athens challenges conventional identification, proposing instead that it corresponds to the west part of the Erechtheion rather than the Parthenon's west room. This conclusion is supported by a rigorous analysis of epigraphical, archaeological, and literary evidence from the 5th and 4th centuries BCE. The study revisits inventories of Athena's riches, which list multiple treasuries on the Acropolis, including the Parthenon, Hekatompedon, Proneos, Opisthodomos, and Archaios Neos. By synthesizing these disparate data sources, the research offers a new interpretation that reshapes our understanding of the spatial organization and religious significance of the Acropolis during its formative period.

The relationship among naturally occurring radionuclides, geology, and geography: Tsodilo Hills, Botswana

Tsodilo — 2019 — WHE34248C5E9C

High uranium concentrations, reaching up to 223 Bq/kg, were found in low-lying areas near Tsodilo Hills, Botswana, likely due to alluvial deposition from the hills themselves. This unique distribution pattern of naturally occurring radionuclides was mapped using in situ gamma ray surveys and GIS software, revealing a distinctive geographical relationship between uranium, potassium (258 Bq/kg), and thorium (31 Bq/kg) concentrations. The study suggests that uranium accumulation is primarily driven by sediment transport from the hills, with similar patterns observed along roads leading to the site.

The Restorations of the Rietveld Schröder House. A Reflection

Rietveld Schröderhuis (Rietveld Schröder House) — 2019 — WHE1C5BED8F84

Recent research on the Rietveld Schröder House, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the only private home among Netherlands' listed sites, reveals that remnants of original plaster and finishing coats from Gerrit T. Rietveld's design periods were discovered during a restoration project. These findings offer potential starting points for future material research to inform more accurate restorations. The study, funded by the Getty Foundation, employed archival research, technical analysis, and oral history to evaluate past restoration efforts led by architect Bertus Mulder in the 1970s–80s. Key challenges included the lack of preserved samples or documentation from earlier restorations, which hindered verification of original materials and color schemes. The research reflects on the complexities of authenticity in restoration work, advocating for a holistic approach that considers multiple aspects such as historiography, the house's association with De Stijl, Truus Schröder's role, and its occupational history.

The Role of NGOs in Touristic Securitization: The Case of La Antigua Guatemala

Antigua Guatemala — 2019 — WHE4E28F149D1

NGOs play a dual role in touristic securitization, making Western tourists feel safe while inadvertently perpetuating inequalities and human insecurities for local, often indigenous, populations. This study focuses on La Antigua Guatemala, a key tourism destination, to analyze how international NGOs contribute to and engage in securing tourism. While they enhance tourist safety, the research reveals that touristic securitization reinforces existing power imbalances, particularly affecting poor Guatemalans whom NGOs aim to assist. The findings highlight how this process both reflects and exacerbates intersecting inequalities, creating distinct worlds of (in)security.

The role of self-gentrification in sustainable tourism: Indigenous entrepreneurship at Honghe Hani Rice Terraces World Heritage Site, China

Cultural Landscape of Honghe Hani Rice Terraces — 2019 — WHE2D158CAA89

Indigenous Hani and Yi communities at the Honghe Hani Rice Terraces UNESCO World Heritage Site face threats to their traditional rice cultivation practices due to gentrification driven by outsiders and state policies, coupled with high Indigenous migration rates. However, some Indigenous individuals are adopting entrepreneurial strategies learned from interactions with tourists and gentrifiers, improving their socio-economic status through a process termed 'self-gentrification.' This study introduces the concept of self-gentrification as a means to conserve heritage landscapes and Indigenous ways of life while mitigating the negative impacts of external gentrification. The research employs interviews and non-participant observations with inhabitants and newcomers to analyze these dynamics, offering potential solutions for sustainable tourism in World Heritage Sites.

The Ruins of Ani: A Journey to Armenia’s Medieval Capital and its Legacy by Krikor Balakian

Archaeological Site of Ani — 2019 — WHEFD199F10F5

Ani, the medieval Armenian capital and Silk Road node, stands as a symbol of both cultural heritage and destruction. Krikor Balakian's 1910 monograph, 'Illustrated Description of the Ruins of Ani,' offers a unique blend of travel account, history, and scholarly study, providing detailed descriptions and illustrations of surviving structures like churches, palaces, and citadels. This work, recently translated into English, sheds light on the site's rich history, from its ninth-century founding to its depopulation in the fourteenth century, while also critiquing external invasions and Armenian disunity. Balakian's account serves as both a travel guide and an appeal for financial support for ongoing excavations and a newly established museum, which were later looted and destroyed. The monograph also reviews past scholarship on Ani, culminating in praise for Nicholas Marr's excavation work.

The sculpture of the church of the holy virgin of the Studenica Monastery. Origin and models

Studenica Monastery — 2019 — WHE295382D28A

A groundbreaking analysis reveals that the twelfth-century sculpture of Studenica Monastery's Church of the Holy Virgin, previously thought to be influenced by Byzantine art, actually originates from Romanesque models in Italy's Emilia Romagna and Apulia regions. The study demonstrates that nearly all motifs—including the dominant 'peopled or inhabited scrolls'—stem from ancient Roman sources, challenging long-standing academic assumptions about its stylistic influences. By meticulously comparing Studenica’s decoration with Italian counterparts, researchers trace a direct lineage to Romanesque art, offering new insights into medieval European artistic exchange and the monastery's cultural significance.

The Short History of the Ifugao Rice Terraces: A Local Response to the Spanish Conquest

Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras — 2019 — WHE15B4D80019

Contrary to long-held beliefs, the Ifugao Rice Terraces in the Philippine Cordilleras were not established 2000–3000 years ago but rather emerged as a recent adaptation to Spanish colonization. This study challenges the dominant historical narrative by integrating radiocarbon dating, faunal isotopic signatures, human osteological remains, archaeobotanical data, energetics assessments, and spatial analysis. Findings suggest that the shift to wet-rice cultivation was a response to colonial pressures rather than an ancient practice. The research employs Bayesian modeling alongside ethnohistorical and ethnographic evidence to reconstruct the terraces' origins, offering new insights into their cultural and historical significance.

The Shulgan-Tash (Kapova) Cave Protection: Unrealized Improvement Attempt, 1960–1981

Rock Paintings of Shulgan-Tash Cave — 2019 — WHED270501FC5

An analysis of the Shulgan-Tash (Kapova) Cave, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its Paleolithic rock paintings, reveals that proposed protection and improvement projects from 1960 to 1981 remained largely unrealized. Despite extensive plans aimed at preserving the cave's integrity, enhancing tourist infrastructure, ensuring visitor safety, and implementing effective visitor management strategies, these initiatives failed to materialize. The study examines the gap between proposed solutions and actual outcomes during this critical period, highlighting the challenges in balancing conservation with development in a culturally significant site.

The Soil Microbiome of the Laurel Forest in Garajonay National Park (La Gomera, Canary Islands): Comparing Unburned and Burned Habitats after a Wildfire

Garajonay National Park — 2019 — WHE69C2DDE2C4

A wildfire dramatically alters the soil microbiome of Garajonay National Park's laurel forest, reducing species richness and diversity while shifting bacterial community composition. Proteobacteria, Acidobacteria, and Actinobacteria dominated unburned soils, but burned areas saw significant decreases in these groups alongside a surge in Betaproteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, and Firmicutes. The study compared microbial communities across two topographical positions—slope and ridge crest—in both undisturbed and post-fire habitats, revealing the fire's profound impact on this unique subtropical ecosystem.

The Spatial Patterns of Red Beds and Danxia Landforms: Implication for the formation factors–China

China Danxia — 2019 — WHE8D1FCF1657

A clustered distribution pattern of Danxia landforms, concentrated primarily in Southeast China, the Sichuan Basin, and the Qilian-Liupan regions, was identified through spatial analysis. The study, which analyzed 1,100 Danxia sites and their relationship with red beds across China, revealed that these landforms cover approximately 9.5% of the country's land area. Using geological and tectonic maps alongside ArcGIS software, researchers performed adjacent index calculations and Thiessen polygon analyses to map the spatial patterns and assess the influence of tectonics on Danxia formation. The findings highlight the significant role of geological elements in shaping these distinctive landscapes.