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Showing 1461 – 1480 of 15962 publications

A Pandora’s Box: Indigenous Voices in Heritage Management Within the Mapungubwe and Makgabeng Cultural Landscapes in South Africa

Mapungubwe Cultural Landscape — 2025 — WHE67FDB160F8

This research highlights the critical tension between indigenous knowledge systems and Western-influenced heritage management practices, particularly within the Mapungubwe and Makgabeng Cultural Landscapes in South Africa. It reveals that while state-based heritage management has historically excluded indigenous communities, their inclusion could significantly enrich archaeological heritage management by drawing from collective memory, ritual practices, and indigenous knowledge. The study, based on semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions, emphasizes the therapeutic potential of inclusive approaches to bridge the gap between Western and indigenous perspectives, advocating for a more indigenously sensitive management system that could unlock deeper cultural insights.

A political industrial ecology of water in Bodh Gaya, India: Pre‐ and Post‐the World Heritage designation

Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodh Gaya — 2025 — WHEFE351EA789

Between 2001 and 2019, tourism following UNESCO World Heritage designation increased Bodh Gaya’s water demand eightfold—from 92 million to 730 million liters—while groundwater extraction surged from 1,586 million to 4,271 million liters. Despite this strain, the town paradoxically relies on distant water sources instead of leveraging local stormwater and wastewater, exacerbating socio-economic inequalities in access. A political industrial ecology approach revealed that fragmented governance and precarious infrastructure hinder equitable water supply for residents. The study underscores the need to integrate tourists' water demands into sustainable urban planning to mitigate scarcity and inequality.

A population viability analysis of K’gari (Fraser Island) wongari (dingoes)

K’gari (Fraser Island) — 2025 — WHE4238CCC56F

A population viability analysis (PVA) of K’gari (Fraser Island) wongari (dingoes) reveals that, under favorable conditions, the population is likely to persist over 50 and 100 years. However, high mortality rates significantly increase extinction risk, particularly at low- and mid-level population sizes. Promiscuous breeding behavior, higher female breeding success, and greater male availability mitigate these risks. The study highlights the importance of PVA in identifying critical factors influencing wongari survival but underscores a lack of data on reproduction and mortality, which limits actionable recommendations for conservation managers. Improved data collection is essential to accurately predict the long-term viability of this iconic population.

A Portrait Bust of Julia Mamaea from the Pantanello of Hadrian’s Villa?

Villa Adriana (Tivoli) — 2025 — WHE812BF874BD

A portrait bust of Julia Mamaea, likely originating from the Pantanello at Hadrian’s Villa (Villa Adriana) in Tivoli, has been identified through analysis of 18th-century antiquarian records and collection histories. The study suggests that this bust, now housed in Potsdam’s Schloss Sanssouci, was part of a collection acquired by Cardinal Polignac before being transferred to Frederick II of Prussia. This finding strengthens the evidence linking Julia Mamaea, a prominent figure in the Severan dynasty, to Hadrian’s Villa, further illuminating its use during the early 3rd century. The research combines antiquarian sources with provenance tracking to reconstruct the bust’s journey and its significance within the villa’s imperial portrait sequence.

A predictive framework for identifying source populations of non-native marine macroalgae: Chondria tumulosa in the Pacific Ocean

Papahānaumokuākea — 2025 — WHE85C1FB813F

A newly described marine red alga, Chondria tumulosa, has been identified as a non-native species in the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument (PMNM), Hawai‘i. First observed in 2016, this cryptogenic alga has since spread across three atolls and poses significant ecological and cultural threats to the region's reefs. The study employs a predictive framework combining oceanographic modeling and environmental DNA (eDNA) assays to trace its potential origin, focusing on regions like Japan, Johnston Atoll, Palmyra Atoll, Clipperton Atoll, and the Galápagos Islands. Despite extensive sampling efforts—including eDNA screening and herbaria specimen analysis—no positive detections were found outside PMNM. The research underscores the need to clarify C. tumulosa's native range to understand its invasion dynamics and develop mitigation strategies for PMNM.

A qualitative approach for investigating thermal discomfort in the outdoor environment of a World Heritage Site: A case study of Hampi, India

Group of Monuments at Hampi — 2025 — WHE7896F3CBB2

Visitors to Hampi experience significant thermal discomfort due to intense solar radiation and lack of shade during the winter season, despite expressing overall satisfaction with the site's thermal conditions. This study introduces photographic analysis as a novel qualitative method for assessing thermal comfort in large-scale archaeological settings, moving beyond traditional microclimate measurements and user feedback. By identifying visual signs of heat stress—such as body postures and behaviors—researchers reveal how environmental design influences visitor experiences without compromising the site's cultural integrity. The findings highlight the potential for visual data to inform strategies that mitigate thermal discomfort while preserving heritage values, offering a new perspective on balancing climate adaptation with conservation in culturally significant landscapes.

A reanalysis of population dynamics in the Casas Grandes region of Northern Mexico using mitochondrial DNA

Archaeological Zone of Paquimé, Casas Grandes — 2025 — WHE5C3EEC3165

A reanalysis of mitochondrial DNA from 114 individuals interred at Casas Grandes sites reveals that low levels of migration occurred diachronically, challenging the long-standing assumption that large-scale population replacement drove the rise of Paquimé in the 13th century A.D. While these findings suggest limited widescale migration, they may still explain hybridized cultural practices observed in the region. The study compares full mitogenomes from earlier (A.D. 700-1200) and later (A.D. 1200-1450) time periods to test migration hypotheses, providing new insights into population dynamics in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

A reanalysis of the lamps from the baths of the Villa Romana del Casale at Piazza Armerina, found in Gentili's excavations of 1950-1955

Villa Romana del Casale — 2025 — WHE63F43A5686

A reanalysis of lamps from the baths of the Villa Romana del Casale at Piazza Armerina reveals significant trade connections between Sicily and the Eastern Mediterranean, particularly Athens, during the 4th to 5th centuries A.D. The study updates previous catalogues by examining lamp finds from Gentili's excavations (1950-1955), confirming that North African, Tripolitan, and local products dominated the region while also providing evidence of trade routes extending to Athens. This finding is supported by similar lamp discoveries in Syracuse's catacombs, suggesting broader economic interactions during Late Roman and Early Byzantine periods.

A Reassessment of the Role of Atmospheric and Oceanic Forcing on Ice Dynamics at Jakobshavn Isbræ (Sermeq Kujalleq), Ilulissat Icefjord

Ilulissat Icefjord — 2025 — WHE7C06388A37

Jakobshavn Isbræ, the largest contributor to Greenland Ice Sheet mass loss over the past three decades, has shown complex ice dynamics influenced by both atmospheric and oceanic factors. Recent research indicates that the glacier began re-accelerating in 2018, with near-terminus velocity increasing by 49% between 2018 and 2021, prior to significant ocean warming. This acceleration was likely driven by reductions in effective pressure due to ice surface lowering, caused by negative surface mass balance and dynamic thinning. Additionally, sustained thinning and iceberg calving during winter 2020/2021 corresponded with a decrease in rigid mélange extent, linked to increased ocean temperatures in Disko Bay and Ilulissat Icefjord. The study underscores the need to consider both atmospheric and oceanic forcing when projecting the future behavior of marine-terminating outlet glaciers like Jakobshavn Isbræ.

A Renaissance in the Tropics: The Rise of Botanical Art in Singapore

Singapore Botanic Gardens — 2025 — WHE04EEF8077D

Botanical art in Singapore has experienced a significant renaissance, transitioning from colonial documentation to a contemporary cultural movement. This study highlights the evolving role of botanical illustration over two centuries, culminating in its renewed recognition through initiatives like the Botanical Art Gallery and the Botanical Art Society (Singapore). The research traces this evolution, emphasizing how local artists have driven a revival that bridges science and cultural heritage. By analyzing historical and contemporary practices, the study underscores the importance of botanical art in preserving biodiversity while fostering artistic expression.

A Research-Historical Review of the Stratigraphy of Geißenklösterle Cave near Blaubeuren

Caves and Ice Age Art in the Swabian Jura — 2025 — WHE1E20A7ABB4

Geißenklösterle Cave holds significant insights into the Upper Palaeolithic period and the spread of anatomically modern humans. A recent research-historical review highlights that while the cave's stratigraphy presents challenges due to past excavation methods and external influences, it retains substantial integrity, particularly in its Aurignacian layers. The study reconstructs the chronological process of layer identification and naming, revealing inconsistencies caused by earlier test trenches and deep soundings. Despite these issues, the pioneering work of Joachim Hahn established a robust foundation for understanding Palaeolithic occupation. This review underscores the importance of critical analysis within the research-historical context to advance knowledge of Aurignacian occupation at Geißenklösterle.

A Review of Exploring the Role of Indigenous Knowledge in Environmental Governance: A Case Study of Lake Mburo and Bwindi Impenetrable National Parks in Uganda

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park — 2025 — WHEB21E350964

Indigenous knowledge significantly enhances environmental governance and conservation efforts, particularly in biodiversity-rich regions like Uganda's Lake Mburo and Bwindi Impenetrable National Parks. A systematic review of the past 20 years reveals that integrating local communities' deep ecological insights and resource management practices improves conservation effectiveness and policy implementation. While challenges persist due to socio-economic barriers, inclusive policies that empower local communities could further advance biodiversity conservation and sustainability. This study underscores the potential for indigenous knowledge to bridge gaps in governance frameworks, benefiting both ecosystems and local populations.

A revised chronology and depositional history for the Outer Arumpo lunette, Willandra Lakes Region World Heritage Area, NSW

Willandra Lakes Region — 2025 — WHEF89E27DD99

Lakes in the Willandra Lakes Region World Heritage Area exhibit distinct hydrologic histories, challenging the long-held assumption that Lake Mungo's depositional record is representative of the entire system. A new study reveals that the Outer Arumpo (OA) lunette experienced significant lake level fluctuations between ~40–38 ka ago, contrasting with the relatively stable conditions at Lake Mungo during the same period. Bayesian modeling of 52 single-grain OSL ages and sediment micromorphological analysis across seven stratigraphic units demonstrates that OA's hydrologic history is unique, with lake filling occurring from ~80–56 ka ago and subsequent rapid fluctuations. This research underscores the need for site-specific stratigraphic frameworks to accurately interpret landscape changes in multi-lake systems.

A Roman Fortlet and Medieval Lowland Castle in the Upper Rhine Graben (Germany): Archaeological and Geoarchaeological Research on the Zullestein Site and the Fluvioscape of Lorsch Abbey

Abbey and Altenmünster of Lorsch — 2025 — WHE9A47FD794A

A Roman fortlet and medieval lowland castle, 'Zullestein,' near Biblis, Germany, were found to have evolved significantly over time due to natural river dynamics and human intervention. Initially a Roman military outpost located at a secondary channel of the River Rhine, Zullestein was later reoccupied by Lorsch Abbey during Carolingian times and expanded into a castle in the 11th century, positioned at the confluence of the Weschnitz and Rhine rivers. Geoarchaeological research, combining electrical resistivity tomography, sediment coring, and historical depictions, revealed that the site's location was influenced by anthropogenic changes to the Weschnitz fluvioscape. Traces of the castle from the Thirty Years' War period were also confirmed, demonstrating the utility of non-invasive methods in studying such sites without excavation.

A Semantic Classification Approach for the Aachen Cathedral

Aachen Cathedral — 2025 — WHE0055B927AF

A novel semantic classification approach, integrating 3D survey data and machine learning, demonstrates significant potential for distinguishing materials and construction techniques in historic masonry, particularly at UNESCO World Heritage sites like Aachen Cathedral. The study, focusing on the Westwerk area, combines terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) and photogrammetric point clouds with supervised algorithms (Random Forest) and 2D image segmentation via META’s Segment Anything Model (SAM). Findings reveal that 3D geometry-based classification excels in identifying features with strong morphological differentiation, while 2D approaches are more effective for visually subtle or geometrically similar elements. Annotated 2D masks projected onto the 3D model enhance classification reliability, contributing to scalable, semi-automatic documentation and conservation planning for complex heritage sites.

A Semi-Automatic Remote-Sensing-Based System for the Early Detection of Cyanobacterial Blooms: The Case of the Doñana National Park (Spain)

Doñana National Park — 2025 — WHE70DBEEC0A6

A semi-automatic remote-sensing system demonstrates significant potential for the early detection of cyanobacterial blooms, offering a rapid and efficient tool for monitoring water quality. The study, conducted in Doñana National Park from 2020 to 2023, combines in-situ hyper-spectral measurements with satellite data from Copernicus Sentinel-2, revealing that while satellite observations are more sensitive to general phytoplankton biomass, they provide critical spatial insights for assessing ecosystem health. In-situ hyper-spectral data, however, enable precise detection of cyanobacteria concentrations. The research also introduces an automatic processing chain and user-friendly interface to streamline data exploitation, making it accessible for monitoring teams in national parks.

A Sentinel-1 Based Hybrid Interferometric Approach to Complement EGMS for Landslides Identification

The Dolomites — 2025 — WHE69DCB74625

A novel Hybrid Interferometric Approach (HIA) using Sentinel-1 satellite data significantly enhances the detection of landslides, particularly those moving faster than current thresholds. This method outperforms the European Ground Motion Service (EGMS), providing a more comprehensive mapping of slope instabilities in the Dolomites. The HIA integrates multi-baseline interferometric analysis with radar signals from both point-like and distributed targets, reducing temporal decorrelation effects by limiting observation windows to six months. By analyzing ten datasets spanning 2017–2021, the study demonstrates that this approach broadens detectable landslide ranges, offering critical advancements for hazard assessment and risk reduction efforts.

A Shifting River, Shifting Narratives: The Sacred Landscape of Mahābodhi

Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodh Gaya — 2025 — WHE5C716DB3BB

Archaeological research at the Mahabodhi Temple Complex in Bodh Gaya, India, reveals that its sacred landscape was significantly larger than previously assumed. The study identifies 40 archaeological features extending beyond the three known excavated sites—Mahabodhi temple-complex, Taradih mound, and Sujata Kuti stūpa—demonstrating that Mahābodhi’s precincts spanned across the Lilajan River. Key findings include a monastic complex with a moat to the north, enclosures to the south, and a significant structure with a large tank to the east. The research suggests that the current river course differs from its historical path, implying these features were originally contiguous. This challenges long-held narratives about the site’s boundaries and provides critical insights for future archaeological investigations.

A Space-Time Analysis on the Ancient Gaya Tombs in Hapcheon Region : Focusing on Hapcheon Samga Ancient Tomb Complex Excavated by the Dong-A University Museum in the Year 1981 -

Gaya Tumuli — 2025 — WHE1A42C13582

The Hapcheon Samga Ancient Tomb Complex, excavated by the Dong-A University Museum in 1981, reveals significant cultural interchange among Gaya, Baekjae, and Shilla during the early 5th to late 6th century. Analysis of artifacts, such as 'Short-Mounted Dish' (type II-A · B) and iron-rings, indicates a transition from preceding Gaya culture to Shilla influence, while also highlighting Baekjae's earlier cultural impact on the region. The study employs space-time analysis of excavated remains and structures to demonstrate this dynamic period of cultural exchange in the Hapcheon region.

A Span of Nontoxic Printmaking in Indian Contemporary Practice: Delhi, Santiniketan and Kolkata

Santiniketan — 2025 — WHE01B997BC6B

Nontoxic printmaking is emerging as a transformative practice in Indian contemporary art, shifting away from hazardous chemical methods toward eco-friendly alternatives. This shift, though delayed due to material availability challenges, has gained traction in the last decade, particularly within key institutions like Jamia Millia Islamia (Delhi), Visva Bharati – Santiniketan (West Bengal), and Rabindra Bharati University (Kolkata). These institutions have integrated nontoxic techniques into their curricula, fostering a culture of health safety and sustainability. Pioneering efforts by printmakers, educators, and younger generations through practical demonstrations and exhibitions are driving this movement, inspiring new generations to adopt safer, environmentally conscious art practices.