World Heritage Research: Search

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Showing 14481 – 14500 of 15962 publications

New species of Endecous (Grylloidea, Phalangopsidae, Luzarinae) from the Iguaçu National Park (Brazil), including bioacoustics, cytogenetic and distribution data

Iguaçu National Park — 2017 — WHEA36354E2E3

Researchers have identified two new species of cavicolous-straminicolous crickets, Endecous chape and E. naipi, inhabiting the Atlantic Semideciduous Forest within Iguaçu National Park, Brazil. These sympatric species were distinguished through morphological analysis, focusing on male genitalia and tegmina. Additionally, the study provides bioacoustics data for E. chape, including its calling song, and cytogenetic insights, contributing to the understanding of the genus Endecous. A distribution map for the species is also presented, enhancing knowledge of their geographic range. The findings are deposited in collections at the Museu de Zoologia da Universidade de São Paulo (MZSP) and Universidade Estadual Paulista—UNESP.

No Big Brother Here: Heterarchy, Shona Political Succession and the Relationship between Great Zimbabwe and Khami, Southern Africa

Khami Ruins National Monument — 2017 — WHEE12E1E4DD0

Contrary to long-standing assumptions, Khami Ruins National Monument and Great Zimbabwe were not linked by a parent-offspring relationship. Instead, they coexisted as heterarchical polities with overlapping chronologies, challenging traditional narratives of succession in southern African history. This finding emerges from a study comparing ceramic traditions and dry-stone architecture across both sites, revealing distinct cultural affiliations and typological differences. Absolute and relative chronologies further indicate that Khami flourished independently from the late 14th/early 15th century, long before Great Zimbabwe's decline, while Great Zimbabwe persisted into the late 17th or even 18th century. The research suggests that malleable hierarchies and situational heterarchies were common within these polities, aligning with documented political relations in pre-colonial southern Zambezian states.

Non-simultaneity in the construction of the Canal du Midi

Canal du Midi — 2017 — WHE38EB7949D1

The construction of the Canal du Midi, a 17th-century French navigational canal renowned for its length and technical sophistication, reveals a pattern of non-simultaneity in work practices that challenges conventional narratives of modernization. This study demonstrates how the canal's development integrated ancient knowledge with contemporary problem-solving, extending well into the 1680s with ongoing repairs. A snapshot of activity from March 1672 highlights the asynchronous nature of cultural and technical practices employed across the project, offering a unique lens to understand innovation in historical infrastructure. The research underscores non-simultaneity as a facilitator of complex, long-term engineering achievements.

Ohio, USA. Monumentale Zeremoniallandschaften der Hopewell-Kultur

Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks — 2017 — WHE27EA394E84

A groundbreaking geomagnetic survey of the Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks in Ohio, USA, has uncovered previously undetected wooden post circles, ditched enclosures, plazas, and avenues—structures that challenge existing understanding of the Hopewell culture's monumental landscapes. The collaboration between the German Archaeological Institute and the Hopewell Culture National Historical Park revealed these features through a comprehensive 'fenceline-to-fenceline' magnetic survey, offering new insights into the complexity and scale of Hopewellian ceremonial sites. Additionally, an extensive pit cluster may point to the discovery of long-sought camp sites, further enriching knowledge of this ancient civilization. The findings aim to enhance public awareness and support the site's potential candidacy for UNESCO World Heritage status.

On First Looking into Martin Luther: Treasures of the Reformation

Luther Memorials in Eisleben and Wittenberg — 2017 — WHE33AABB85B9

A groundbreaking set of exhibitions and accompanying scholarly volumes, 'Martin Luther: Treasures of the Reformation' and 'Martin Luther and the Reformation,' revealed unprecedented insights into Martin Luther's life, the Reformation era, and their cultural, religious, and political contexts. These exhibitions, held in the U.S., showcased rare artifacts, archaeological finds, and significant historical documents, including Luther's childhood items, the Debate Lectern from Wittenberg, and the Eisleben pulpit where he preached his last sermon. The exhibits, curated post-German reunification, offered a comprehensive view of Luther's influence and the Reformation's impact on art, piety, and society, with contributions from leading scholars in the field.

Oracles on Faults: A Probable Location of a “Lost” Oracle of Apollo Near Oroviai (Northern Euboea Island, Greece) Viewed in Its Geological and Geomorphological Context

Archaeological Site of Delphi — 2017 — WHECE83B1E576

A newly discovered archaeological site at Aghios Taxiarches, Northern Euboea, Greece, may be the location of Apollo Selinountios' 'lost' oracle. This hypothesis is supported by inscriptions on two votive stelae found in 2001 alongside Hellenistic pottery and ancient wall ruins, along with its geographical context. The site's steep bedrock escarpment, hanging valley, waterfall, and cave are linked to an active fault zone, mirroring the geological features associated with Apollo's oracle at Delphi. This connection suggests a similar function for Aghios Taxiarches, though further archaeological and geoscientific studies are needed to confirm this. The research integrates geological, geomorphological, and historical evidence to propose a significant addition to ancient Greek religious sites.

Origin of water in the Badain Jaran Desert, China: new insight from isotopes

Badain Jaran Desert - Towers of Sand and Lakes — 2017 — WHE9639BA40B1

New isotopic evidence challenges long-standing hypotheses about the origin of water in China's Badain Jaran Desert, revealing that both groundwater and lake water are sourced from modern precipitation in the region rather than remote or ancient sources. The study analyzed radiocarbon (14C), tritium (3H), stable hydrogen and oxygen isotopes (δ2H – δ18O), and d-excess values in water samples from lakes, springs, and local aquifers, alongside evaporation experiments to assess isotopic changes under desert conditions. Contrary to previous theories, the data show that groundwater is derived from recent meteoric precipitation, not ancient carbonates or early Holocene recharge, debunking claims of distant Tibetan Plateau or paleoclimate origins.

Out of the frying pan: Reintroduction of toad‐smart northern quolls to southern Kakadu National Park

Kakadu National Park — 2017 — WHE9FF1479113

A reintroduction effort of northern quolls (Dasyurus hallucatus) to Kakadu National Park, where invasive cane toads (Rhinella marina) pose a significant threat, revealed critical insights into species survival and conservation strategies. The study found that quolls conditioned with taste aversion training to avoid toxic toads survived significantly longer than unconditioned individuals, with some even recorded mating. However, predator aversion training proved less effective, as dingo predation accounted for substantial mortality among the reintroduced quolls. This suggests that while behavioral conditioning can mitigate immediate threats like cane toads, long-term survival is hindered by other ecological pressures, such as predation and potential loss of predator-avoidance behaviors in isolated populations. These findings underscore the complexity of reintroduction efforts for endangered species and highlight the need for comprehensive strategies addressing multiple ecological challenges.

Paleoarchean bedrock lithologies across the Makhonjwa Mountains of South Africa and Swaziland linked to geochemical, magnetic and tectonic data reveal early plate tectonic genes flanking subduction margins

Barberton Makhonjwa Mountains — 2017 — WHECE6D47877C

Research on the Barberton Makhonjwa Mountains reveals that plate tectonics and associated processes were established by 3.2–3.6 billion years ago, challenging earlier assumptions about Earth's early geodynamic behavior. The study integrates geological mapping, geochemistry, magnetism, and thermochronology to demonstrate similarities between Paleoarchean subduction zones and modern Western Pacific-like systems. Key findings include robust rates of horizontal and vertical tectonic processes that align with those observed in contemporary oceanic and orogenic terrains, providing critical constraints for testing Paleoarchean geodynamic models over a span comparable to the Phanerozoic eon.

Papahānaumokuākea: Integrating Culture in the Design and Management of one of the World's Largest Marine Protected Areas

Papahānaumokuākea — 2017 — WHE32ADD6B168

Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument, the world's largest marine protected area and the first mixed conservation site in the U.S., demonstrates how integrating indigenous cultural knowledge with scientific management can enhance conservation outcomes. This biocultural approach, rooted in Native Hawaiian values and practices, has proven effective in managing both natural and cultural resources. The study highlights the importance of involving cultural practitioners in policy, education, and research, which has led to innovative strategies that respect traditional epistemologies and relationships with place. Recognized as a cultural seascape with deep spiritual significance for Native Hawaiians, Papahānaumokuākea serves as a global model for sustainable marine conservation.

Para o estudo de um direito senhorial nas terras medievais de Alcobaça: o montado dos porco

Monastery of Alcobaça — 2017 — WHEFCF6765E78

A significant manorial right, the 'montado dos porco,' emerged in medieval Alcobaça, Portugal, as a tax on pig grazing in monastery-owned forests during the 'montanheira' season (September to January). This practice, initially absent from early charters, was formalized by the 14th century and sparked prolonged conflicts with local communities. The study reveals that these disputes were resolved only through revised charters in the 16th century, highlighting the dynamic evolution of feudal rights and their societal impact. By analyzing historical documents and legal texts, the research reconstructs this lesser-known aspect of medieval land tenure, offering insights into the intersection of economic practices, power dynamics, and community resistance during this period.

Park, People and Biodiversity Conservation in Kaziranga National Park, India

Kaziranga National Park — 2017 — WHE0873239735

Kaziranga National Park (KNP) faces significant challenges in biodiversity conservation due to complex park-people relations. A case study of peripheral villages revealed that while local communities suffer from livestock losses and damage to paddy fields caused by wild animals, they benefit economically from tourism-related activities. The study highlights the need for extended tourism initiatives and community welfare measures to foster sustainable coexistence between conservation efforts and local livelihoods. These findings provide critical insights for policy-making aimed at balancing biodiversity protection with socio-economic development in KNP.

Parking Management Policies Based on Behavior Analysis at Fatih District in Istanbul, Turkey

Historic Areas of Istanbul — 2017 — WHE8946DF6BF5

Parking behaviors and policy preferences significantly vary across sub-areas within Fatih District, Istanbul. A study analyzing interview survey data revealed distinct parking patterns, influencing the selection of effective management strategies. Statistical analysis and a discrete choice model identified key factors affecting policy choices, providing actionable insights for urban planners to tailor parking solutions in historic cities with limited space.

Participatory Culture and the Social Value of an Architectural Icon: Sydney Opera House

Sydney Opera House — 2017 — WHE71014A161D

This book introduces innovative methods to assess the cultural significance of iconic heritage sites, such as the UNESCO-listed Sydney Opera House, by examining how participatory media shapes public perception and social value. It reveals that digital platforms like YouTube, Pinterest, Wikipedia, Facebook, and Flickr serve as spaces where people express their emotional and cultural connections to architectural landmarks. Through real-world examples—from souvenirs to opera-house-shaped cakes—the study untangles the tangible and intangible dimensions of heritage significance, highlighting how social media mediates and sustains these connections. This work contributes to the growing field of digital heritage scholarship while offering insights for academics, professionals, and policymakers navigating the evolving role of technology in preserving cultural value.

Perceptions and effects of the acoustic environment in quiet residential areas

Old Town of Cáceres — 2017 — WHED153D26FA7

In quiet residential areas, the absence of daytime noise significantly enhances overall urban environmental perception more than even the sense of security. Road traffic remains the most annoying noise source, but its impact on annoyance and sleep disturbance is lower compared to previous studies with similar sound exposure levels. This study analyzed sound levels and surveyed residents' and passers-by perceptions in Cáceres' old town, revealing that low-intensity noise pollution and characteristic soundmarks like bells and birds also contribute to annoyance despite their positive acoustic environment.

Persistent Changes to Ecosystems following Winter Road Construction and Abandonment in an Area of Discontinuous Permafrost, Nahanni National Park Reserve, Northwest Territories, Canada

Nahanni National Park — 2017 — WHE61F35CCEE2

Disturbances to discontinuous permafrost terrain, such as those caused by winter road construction and abandonment, can lead to large and persistent changes in ecosystem composition and structure. A study conducted 32 years after the abandonment of a winter access road in Nahanni National Park Reserve (NNPR) found that these changes are driven by interactions between soil conditions and vegetation communities. The research compared disturbed (road) and undisturbed sites across four terrain types: spruce peatland, black spruce parkland, deciduous forest, and alpine treeline terrain. Findings suggest that when disturbances fundamentally disrupt stabilizing interactions between soil conditions and vegetation, lasting changes to ecosystem structure and function are likely, even in the context of climate warming.

Phase 2: Mounded Cultivation During the Mid Holocene

Kuk Early Agricultural Site — 2017 — WHEF750C015BB

Archaeological evidence from Kuk Swamp in the highlands of New Guinea reveals the earliest unequivocal proof of mounded cultivation, dating between 6950 and 6440 years ago. This discovery challenges earlier debates about whether land use practices at Kuk constituted agriculture, providing definitive support for its classification as such. The study contrasts with previous claims that such evidence was insufficient, instead offering robust data from Kuk and comparable mid-Holocene sites in the Wahgi Valley, including Mugumamp and Warrawau. The findings underscore New Guinea's role in the independent origins of agriculture, reinforcing arguments for early agricultural development in the region. This research builds on extensive investigations at Kuk, which have served as a benchmark for interpreting similar finds across highland sites.

Picturing Pasargadae: Visual Representation and the Ambiguities of Heritage in Iran

Pasargadae — 2017 — WHEE1E57CF161

A systematic analysis of publicly available online images of Pasargadae, a UNESCO World Heritage site in southern Iran, reveals that visual representations of the site foster a sense of intimacy and common ground for pre-Islamic heritage. This intimacy serves as both a meeting point and a contested space for Iranian state and society in shaping versions of national identity. The study highlights the complex relationship between visual depictions and visitation practices at Pasargadae, offering insights into the peculiarities of heritage representation in Iran.

Place construction in the context of world heritage tourism: the case of ‘KaipingDiaolouand Villages’

Kaiping Diaolou and Villages — 2017 — WHEEBDC91198A

Heritage tourism in Kaiping has transformed the Diaolou into a highly symbolized local icon, yet this process lacks authentic representation of local cultural connotations. While government-led initiatives have established 'Diaolou Country' as a dominant image, it fails to resonate with residents or fully capture the site's heritage significance. Tourism consumption further distances the Diaolou from its original place identity, shaping it into a hollowed-out landscape that accommodates external narratives rather than preserving local meaning. The study highlights the need for deeper integration of heritage tourism development with local communities to fulfill its potential in place construction and cultural representation.

Places of Encounter: Relational Ontologies, Animal Depiction and Ritual Performance at Göbekli Tepe

Göbekli Tepe — 2017 — WHE1C2A4EDDE2

Göbekli Tepe, a Pre-Pottery Neolithic site in Turkey, offers new insights into prehistoric ontologies and symbolic systems through its rich iconography. Contrary to previous interpretations that emphasized male-centric violence, this study proposes that the curvilinear enclosures served as places of encounter for human and non-human agents, facilitated by images acting as intermediaries. The research leverages the framework of relational ontologies and analyzes stylistic and contextual aspects, such as cues of motion and three-dimensionality in animal depictions, to argue for a dynamic convergence of beings within these social spaces. This reinterpretation challenges traditional views and advances our understanding of ritual performance and symbolic representation in prehistoric societies.