World Heritage Research: Search

Publications

Showing 121 – 140 of 15962 publications

Archaeology, power, and professional responsibility: weaponising heritage at Sebastia (OPT)

Sebastia — 2026 — WHEA98C4F24B1

Israeli governmental and settler interventions have weaponized archaeology at Sebastia, transforming it from a scientific practice into a political tool for territorial control and ideological legitimation. The study identifies three strategies: establishing a permanent Israeli presence, constructing a historical narrative centered on Jewish antiquity while marginalizing Palestinian dimensions, and using this narrative to justify annexation. Framed within crypto-colonialism, the research highlights how heritage management in Sebastia positions Israel as a 'civilizing' guardian of Western values against a constructed Eastern other. In contrast, Palestinian-led initiatives offer alternative models rooted in community custodianship and shared stewardship. The article calls for ethical engagement that recognizes heritage as a field of political responsibility and potential for decolonized practice.

Archaeoseismological study of tilted foundations at Felix Romuliana, Gamzigrad, Serbia

Gamzigrad-Romuliana, Palace of Galerius — 2026 — WHE081798B419

A study of the Gamzigrad-Romuliana palace complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Serbia, reveals that severe foundation damage and structural destruction observed at the site were likely caused by natural forces rather than human activity. The research found strong correlations between foundation inclinations and natural terrain slopes, suggesting slope instability triggered by heavy rainfall or seismic activity. Historical earthquake records indicate that such events could have occurred in the 3rd century CE, with predicted seismic ground motions capable of inducing soil slumps on the alluvial fan where the palace stands. The study combines archaeoseismological analysis with geological data to propose natural causes for the observed damage, offering new insights into the resilience and vulnerabilities of ancient structures in seismically active regions.

Archeoastronomia ricostruttiva nell'era dell'antico Egitto

Ancient Jericho/Tell es-Sultan — 2026 — WHEA09C8597C5

A groundbreaking archeoastronomical study redefines the chronology of ancient Egypt, from the Middle to New Kingdoms, by correcting a systematic error in traditional calculations of the Egyptian calendar. This error, previously deemed negligible, accumulates over 1500 years, causing a half-century discrepancy between historical records and astronomical observations. Using advanced software based on NASA's DE431 astronomical data, researchers verified the exact timing of celestial events such as the heliacal risings of Sirius at Heliopolis and recorded novilunies from 2000 to 1500 BCE. The findings align with radiocarbon dating and archeological evidence, providing precise dates for key historical events, including the reigns of Senusret III (1953 BCE), Amenhotep I (1613 BCE), and Thutmose III (1546 BCE). This reconstruction also offers new insights into the timing of the Hyksos expulsion by Ahmose I around 1620 BCE, potentially linking it to the biblical Exodus narrative. Additionally, the study suggests that the fall of ancient Jericho occurred around 1580 BCE, consistent with archeological data from Tell es-Sultan. The research integrates archeoastronomy, historical chronology, and source analysis, providing a multidisciplinary framework to refine the uncertain timeline of ancient Egypt.

Archetypes of tropical moist forest change

Central Amazon Conservation Complex — 2026 — WHE0F9C65DC92

Tropical moist forests (TMFs) remain under significant pressure, with deforestation persisting at high rates and proving difficult to reverse once elevated levels are reached. This study identifies seven archetypes of forest state and change in TMFs, covering approximately 2.8 billion hectares globally. It reveals that less than a third of TMFs are intact, while about a quarter face high deforestation, with Southeast Asia showing higher proportions of degraded forests and Central/South America having the largest absolute deforestation areas. Local context plays a crucial role in shaping deforestation patterns, which do not clearly link to specific land-use conversions. The study also highlights that low accessibility passively protects 34% of intact forest landscapes with good agricultural suitability, particularly in the Amazon, Congo Basin, and southern New Guinea. This research provides a diagnostic framework for policy interventions, supported by archetype analysis, and underpins four country-specific reports on deforestation policies.

Architect Karl Schinkel and Hegel’s Lectures on Aesthetics Postscript to Douglas Crimp’s Article “The End of Art and the Origin of the Museum”

Museumsinsel (Museum Island), Berlin — 2026 — WHEF4FFB005B9

A key insight from this study challenges the prevailing narrative of Douglas Crimp’s 1987 thesis on the 'end of art' and the origins of the museum, particularly regarding the Altes Museum on Berlin's Museum Island. The research reveals that both architect Karl Schinkel and philosopher G.W.F. Hegel played pivotal roles in shaping the museum's conceptual foundations during the 1820s, aligning with Prussian educational reforms under Altenstein. Unlike Crimp’s focus on a material principle gap in art history, this study emphasizes Hegel’s lectures on aesthetics (winter semester 1820/1821), where he introduced a fourth stage of artistic progression—'Civil Baukunst'—to complement the traditional tripartite structure. It also explores the tension between Schinkel’s rationalist architectural approach and Hegel’s spiritual interpretation of beauty, which influenced construction technologies. The study uses selective commentary to recontextualize Crimp’s thesis within broader aesthetic debates of the era.

Architectural Characteristics and Stratigraphic Analysis of the Northern Sector of Almus Castrum (Dacia Ripensis): New Data from Archaeological Research of the Danube Limes in Bulgaria

Frontiers of the Roman Empire – Dacia — 2026 — WHEDDCEB2C4B3

New archaeological research at Almus Castrum, Bulgaria, reveals critical insights into the transformation of a Roman military fortification into a Late Antique settlement. The study, spanning 2014–2023, establishes a precise chronology for the site's development using stratigraphic analysis and significant artifacts, including a 1st-century AD golden phalera and lead exagia. By integrating numismatic evidence from the Constantinian era and ceramic typology (terra sigillata), the research provides essential data supporting the nomination of the Danube Limes as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This work sheds light on the architectural evolution of Almus Castrum, transitioning from a specialized military castellum to a fortified civitas, offering valuable context for understanding Roman frontier dynamics in Dacia Ripensis.

Arcopotamonautes johnstoni

Kilimanjaro National Park — 2026 — WHE9F6390E47E

A comprehensive rediagnosis of the freshwater crab species Arcopotamonautes johnstoni, endemic to Kilimanjaro National Park and surrounding regions, reveals distinct morphological traits that differentiate it from previously synonymized taxa. The study, based on extensive examination of type material and specimens from Tanzania and Kenya, clarifies its taxonomic status by analyzing carapace structure, sternal features, chelipeds, and male gonopods. A. johnstoni is characterized by a sharp-edged postfrontal crest, smooth branchiostegite regions, and unique gonopod morphology, including a U-shaped dorsal membrane in the distal end of G1 SA. The species exhibits a wide adult size range (69.0–84.0 mm carapace width) and occupies year-round streams and rivers in high-altitude forested areas, though its area of occupancy is smaller due to seasonal water availability in savanna regions. While currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, long-term habitat threats from human population growth pose potential risks. This research resolves taxonomic ambiguities and provides critical baseline data for future conservation efforts.

Armenian Inscriptions and Graffiti of the Nativity Church in Bethlehem

Birthplace of Jesus: Church of the Nativity and the Pilgrimage Route, Bethlehem — 2026 — WHE63BB59BAB1

Over seventy Armenian inscriptions and graffiti, the oldest dating to the early 13th century, have been identified within the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem. This study highlights twenty of these inscriptions, providing a glimpse into the historical presence and contributions of Armenians in the Holy Land, particularly at this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The research involved two brief visits to the church, during which inscriptions were meticulously documented and analyzed. These findings contribute to our understanding of medieval Armenian cultural and religious activity in a significant Christian pilgrimage destination.

Art and Architecture of the Rashtrakuta Dynasty

Ellora Caves — 2026 — WHE3CF6EA75D9

The Rashtrakuta Dynasty (8th–10th centuries CE) left an indelible mark on early medieval Indian architecture, showcasing a sophisticated blend of engineering, craftsmanship, and spirituality. Their most notable achievement is the Kailasa Temple at Ellora Caves, a colossal rock-cut structure dedicated to Lord Shiva, recognized as one of the world's greatest architectural feats. This temple exemplifies advanced engineering, intricate sculptural work, and a harmonious fusion of regional and Dravidian styles. Beyond religious architecture, the Rashtrakutas demonstrated expertise in military and hydraulic engineering through fortresses and civil projects. Their legacy extended to later architectural trends, shaping the cultural landscape of the Deccan for centuries. This study highlights their visionary approach, innovative techniques, and enduring influence on Indian heritage.

Arte rupestre de Bezas y Tormón (Teruel)

Rock Art of the Mediterranean Basin on the Iberian Peninsula — 2026 — WHEFCCC386922

A recent restudy of rock art sites in Bezas and Tormón, Teruel, Spain, has uncovered 20 new sites featuring Levantine and Schematic art, enriching the understanding of post-Palaeolithic rock art in the Albarracín Cultural Park. This research, conducted between 2012 and 2013 with advanced techniques such as high-resolution photography, digital tracing, laser scanning, and archaeological surveys, provides a comprehensive analysis of these UNESCO-listed sites. The study contributes to the broader characterization of Iberian Levantine rock art, offering insights into the complex cultural landscape of the region. Part of ongoing research since 2014, this work underscores the significance of Albarracín's rock art within the Mediterranean Basin and its integration into global heritage networks like REPPARP.

Arte textil y regeneración cultural para la apropiación se saberes en México. La Casa/ Escuela del Mundo del Algodón

El Tajin, Pre-Hispanic City — 2026 — WHEAB6353E9DE

Textile art serves as a catalyst for cultural regeneration and knowledge reappropriation within rural Mexican communities, particularly at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of El Tajín. The study highlights how the collective Casa/Escuela del Mundo del Algodón employs collaborative ethnographic methods to recover and valorize indigenous textile traditions, challenging historical marginalization by formal education systems. Through fieldwork and coexistence with artisans, the research demonstrates that artistic creation fosters the transmission of traditional knowledge—including mother tongue and craftsmanship—in ways that resonate with local contexts. This approach offers a model for integrating cultural heritage preservation with educational practices in rural settings.

Artificial Intelligence in Documenting, Analyzing and Reimagining Soil Architecture: A Comparative Study between Saudi Arabia (Diriyah/Al-ula) and the UAE (Al Ain)

Cultural Sites of Al Ain (Hafit, Hili, Bidaa Bint Saud and Oases Areas) — 2026 — WHE2C9F80DACD

Artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced imaging technologies are transforming the preservation of earthen heritage sites, as demonstrated by a comparative study between Diriyah/Al-Ula (Saudi Arabia) and Al Ain (UAE). The research reveals that AI-driven workflows—integrating photogrammetry, LiDAR, BIM, and augmented reality—enable precise digital twin creation, deeper data analysis, and virtual reconstructions. These tools not only enhance documentation but also support public engagement and scholarly inquiry. The study underscores the potential of AI to sustainably preserve Gulf and Arab heritage, offering actionable recommendations for policymakers, educators, and heritage professionals.

Aspergillus flavus and Soil Fungi Aflatoxin Production Potential Using Coconut Medium in Al Ahsa Oasis, Saudi Arabia

Al-Ahsa Oasis, an Evolving Cultural Landscape — 2026 — WHE619464C37A

Aflatoxins, potent carcinogenic mycotoxins produced by Aspergillus flavus, pose significant food safety risks. This study found that 82.4% of A. flavus isolates from Al-Ahsa Oasis, Saudi Arabia, were aflatoxigenic, with production levels classified as high, medium, or low. The research used Coconut Agar Medium (CAM) to screen for aflatoxin production and identified A. flavus as a prevalent fungus in the region's agricultural soils. No significant association was found between aflatoxin production and geographical origin, suggesting strain-specific toxigenicity rather than environmental factors. The study highlights the need for integrated soil-management strategies to mitigate pre-harvest contamination risks, particularly for date palms, and supports CAM as an effective screening tool.

Assessing Forest Landscape Dynamics and Its Driving Factors in Rwanda, a Case of Nyungwe National Park (1990-2024)

Nyungwe National Park — 2026 — WHE8FD0B31E8A

Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda, has experienced dynamic forest landscape changes from 1990 to 2024, with net forest expansion despite localized declines. Initial growth (7.0%) between 1990 and 2000 was attributed to natural regeneration post-conflict, while grassland expanded significantly (86.7%) during post-conflict resettlement (2000–2010). A slight net forest increase (1.4%) occurred from 2010 to 2024, though urban expansion and agricultural activity posed threats. The study used multi-temporal Landsat data and GIS tools to classify land-use/land-cover (LULC) types—forestland, agriculture, grassland, wetland, aquatic bodies, and built-up areas—and analyzed drivers such as economic development, population shifts, sociopolitical instability, and climate change. Vegetation health improved overall (NDVI increase from 0.6 to 0.7), but localized declines were linked to fire, road construction, and agriculture. The research underscores the need for sustainable land-use strategies, stricter regulations, ecotourism development, and community engagement to preserve NNP's biological integrity.

Assessing Habitat Occupancy of Chevrotains (Moschiola meminna and Moschiola kathygre) in Sri Lanka

Sinharaja Forest Reserve — 2026 — WHE84839176F1

A study assessing the habitat occupancy of chevrotains in Sri Lanka reveals distinct differences between the two endemic species. In Sinharaja Forest Reserve, the White-spotted Chevrotain (Moschiola meminna) shows high and stable occupancy across all habitats, suggesting widespread abundance. Conversely, in Wilpattu National Park, occupancy is lower and influenced by habitat features such as litter cover, distance to water, and leopard relative abundance, with tropical thorn forests supporting the highest occupancy. The research used camera trapping and occupancy modeling via PRESENCE software to analyze detection histories over multiple survey periods. These findings underscore the need for site-specific conservation strategies: sustaining current conditions in Sinharaja while addressing habitat degradation in Wilpattu.

Assessing Land Cover Change and Forest Sustainability in a World Heritage Context: Evidence from the Okapi Wildlife Reserve

Okapi Wildlife Reserve — 2026 — WHED27DE14751

Forest loss and degradation in the Okapi Wildlife Reserve (OWR), a UNESCO World Heritage site, have accelerated since 2013, with disturbances primarily concentrated along its boundaries and National Road No. 4, while also affecting core protected areas. This study, using Landsat satellite data from 2000 to 2023 and the Continuous Change Detection and Classification (CCDC) algorithm, reveals increasing landscape fragmentation and varied conservation pressures across management zones, as measured by the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 15.1.1 indicator. The findings highlight the potential of Earth observation techniques for monitoring endangered World Heritage sites in conflict-affected regions with limited field data.

Assessing smallholders livelihood vulnerability to climate change in the Konso cultural landscape world heritage site

Konso Cultural Landscape — 2026 — WHEFD85AE73EF

Climate change is significantly increasing vulnerability among smallholders in the Konso Cultural Landscape, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Ethiopia. The study reveals that prolonged drought and erratic rainfall are severely impacting livelihoods and cultural heritage, with ecosystems showing high sensitivity to climate change. Smallholders' adaptive capacities are weakening, shifting focus from collective heritage management to short-term survival needs. This highlights critical implications for the sustainable management of the site, emphasizing the need for tailored adaptation strategies to improve livelihoods and conserve the unique cultural landscape. The research used a cross-sectional survey design with 371 smallholders across three districts, employing the Livelihood Vulnerability Index approach and principal component analysis to assess vulnerability factors.

Assessing Socio-Technical Transitions Shaping Wash Sustainability in Lower Omo Valley, Ethiopia

Lower Valley of the Omo — 2026 — WHEB087895774

A study on the Lower Omo Valley, Ethiopia, reveals that WASH (water, sanitation, and hygiene) systems embedded within strong socio-technical arrangements—characterized by community ownership and appropriate technology—demonstrate significantly higher functionality rates. The research also highlights how disruptions from the Upper Omo River highlands, leading to shifts in livelihoods, increase vulnerability to waterborne diseases. However, integrated WASH interventions in 2023, combining physical rehabilitation of water schemes with hygiene promotion based on the Health Belief Model, successfully contained cholera and acute watery diarrhea. The findings underscore the importance of aligning technological solutions with the egalitarian social structures and mobility patterns of pastoralist communities for long-term resilience.

Assessing the impact of sustainable tourism practices on Petra and Wadi Rum

Wadi Rum Protected Area — 2026 — WHEE87425128A

Sustainable tourism practices significantly impact environmental outcomes and stakeholder perceptions at Jordan's UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Petra and Wadi Rum, but have negligible effects on economic growth or cultural heritage protection. The study, involving 214 participants through questionnaires, interviews, and document reviews, highlights the need for more inclusive, culturally responsive, and community-based tourism strategies to foster equitable development. Enhanced cross-sector cooperation and policy implementation are emphasized as key advocacy goals for sustainable tourism in Jordan.

Assessing the interplay between tourism development, cultural preservation, and economic growth in Nigeria: a case of the Osun Groves, Osogbo

Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove — 2026 — WHED075AFE608

Tourism at the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Nigeria, significantly boosts local revenue and employment while posing risks to cultural authenticity and environmental sustainability. A qualitative case study involving interviews with stakeholders, site observations, and policy analysis revealed that while tourism drives economic growth and heritage preservation, over-commercialization and inadequate infrastructure threaten long-term resilience. Community engagement and traditional custodianship are critical for maintaining the site's integrity. The research underscores the need for equitable benefit-sharing, improved infrastructure, and stricter conservation regulations to balance tourism development with cultural and environmental preservation.