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Showing 14801 – 14820 of 15962 publications

The counterinsurgency/conservation nexus: guerrilla livelihoods and the dynamics of conflict and violence in the Virunga National Park, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Virunga National Park — 2016 — WHE9CFD305662

Strict conservation enforcement and joint military operations in Virunga National Park, Democratic Republic of the Congo, paradoxically intensify armed mobilization by fueling guerrilla livelihoods. These unauthorized activities—such as cultivation, fishing, and logging—often occur under the protection of armed groups, creating a complex interplay between resource exploitation, conflict dynamics, and insurgent resistance. The study demonstrates that traditional conservation strategies may inadvertently exacerbate violence rather than mitigate it, highlighting the need for nuanced approaches that address both ecological preservation and local livelihood security.

The Cultural Diversity and Mission of Tamberma in Koutammakou in the Republic of Togo in West Africa

Koutammakou, the Land of the Batammariba — 2016 — WHE76F8EB2866

Koutammakou, the Land of the Batammariba, is home to the Tamberma people, whose cultural and religious practices are deeply rooted in a belief system centered around 'Petish,' a form of animistic worship that serves as both a spiritual guide and a protective force against malevolent entities. This study highlights the unique societal structure of the Tamberma, where village chiefs not only govern communal affairs but also play pivotal roles in religious leadership. The research emphasizes the need for a nuanced missionary approach that respects local traditions, promotes literacy, and supports the creation of scriptures in the Tamberma language to facilitate effective evangelization. It underscores the importance of understanding and addressing the constraints faced by missionaries while fostering mutual learning between them and the Tamberma community.

The Danube Delta

Danube Delta — 2016 — WHEF76C34599F

The Danube Delta has undergone five distinct evolutionary phases since its formation during the Quaternary period, primarily driven by sediment deposition from the Danube River. These phases—spanning from 11700 to 2500 years BP—were identified through multi-disciplinary analyses including geomorphology, radiocarbon dating, and faunal studies. The research reveals a dynamic transition from the Initial Letea-Caraorman Spit to more complex deltaic formations like the St. George I and Sulina Deltas, culminating in modern structures such as the St. George II, Kilia, and Cosna-Sinoie Deltas. Additionally, the study highlights significant anthropogenic impacts on the delta over the last two centuries, providing critical insights into its geological history and current challenges.

The design of the “archive wall” at Aphrodisias

Aphrodisias — 2016 — WHE18F026846E

Aphrodisias' 'archive wall,' traditionally thought to be chronologically ordered, is revealed through this study to have been designed centripetally, prioritizing documents of honorific significance over chronological sequence. The research identifies two distinct epigraphic phases: the original phase, likely dating from 224 CE and comprising inscriptions above the orthostate course, and a later phase from 243 CE or slightly after, extending the inscriptions to the orthostate course. Additionally, it suggests that document 4, the earliest in the dossier, may be a letter by Cornelius Sulla. This study challenges conventional assumptions about the wall's design, emphasizing the importance of rhetorical content and concrete privileges over chronology.

The Estimation of Payment Value of Historical Tourism Resources for Admission Fee Using Contingent Valuation Method(CVM): A Case of Suwon Hwaseong Fortress

Hwaseong Fortress — 2016 — WHE075F9F497C

A study estimates that the annual economic value of Suwon Hwaseong Fortress is approximately 19 billion won (about $15 million) based on visitors' willingness to pay for admission. Using the Contingent Valuation Method (CVM), researchers found that visitors were willing to pay an average of 5,267.5 won per visit—significantly higher than the current admission fee. The analysis also suggests a potential tourism value of 150 billion won annually if visitor numbers are considered. Unlike previous studies focusing on national populations, this research targeted Suwon visitors specifically, providing a more precise assessment of economic value for historical tourism resources.

The Evansian Period of Knossos: Inconvenient History and the World Heritage List

Minoan Palatial Centres — 2016 — WHE47F1C97D71

Knossos, one of the most significant ancient Minoan palatial centers on Crete, has not been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List (WHL) despite its outstanding universal value. This study argues that a new submission for 'Minoan Palatial Centres' could be strengthened by acknowledging Sir Arthur Evans' controversial 20th-century reconstruction work and architectural speculation (c. 1900–1935). While Evans' theories, many of which have been disproven, are still used to enhance the heritage value of these sites, they need not form the basis of a WHL proposal. Instead, the study proposes that openly addressing this 'inconvenient history' could enrich the narrative and strengthen any future application, recognizing Knossos' pivotal role in Mediterranean ancient history and architecture.

The evolution of heritage atmospheres in the medina of Tunis since the 19th century

Medina of Tunis — 2016 — WHE971800DB9E

A comparative analysis of the Medina of Tunis reveals significant shifts in sensory experiences and user perceptions since the 19th century. The study highlights how historical accounts contrast with contemporary observations, illustrating changes in atmospheric qualities that shape the heritage site's character. By integrating literary sources with fieldwork—including interviews and direct observation—the research captures evolving sensorial dimensions, from olfactory and auditory cues to spatial dynamics. These findings underscore the dynamic nature of heritage atmospheres, influenced by urban evolution, cultural practices, and visitor interactions.

The first hominin from the early Pleistocene paleocave of Haasgat, South Africa

Fossil Hominid Sites of South Africa — 2016 — WHEABC2113F59

Researchers have identified the first hominin fossil from Haasgat, a paleocave within the UNESCO World Heritage Site 'Fossil Hominid Sites of South Africa.' The discovery, a partial maxillary molar (HGT 500), dates to approximately 1.95 million years ago and provides critical insight into the transition period in early Pleistocene South Africa, marking the last occurrence of Australopithecus and the emergence of Paranthropus and Homo. Morphological analysis, including micro-CT scans and microscopy, suggests the molar aligns with either late-occurring Australopithecus or early Homo, excluding Paranthropus. This finding underscores Haasgat's significance for understanding hominin evolution and interactions within distinct northern ecosystems, contrasting with better-studied southern sites.

The Fortification System of the City of Urbino: The Case Study of Valbona Gate from 3D Surveys to GIS Applications for Dynamic Maps

Historic Centre of Urbino — 2016 — WHE97586E8A2D

Advanced integration of 3D surveys and GIS technologies provides a comprehensive, dynamic mapping tool for analyzing the architectural evolution and deterioration of Urbino's historic fortifications. Focusing on Valbona Gate, this study reveals the layered history—from protohistoric roots to Renaissance adaptations—and offers precise diagnostic capabilities for conservation planning. By combining geometric and morphological data with tri-dimensional GIS systems, researchers can assess pathologies, visualize past states, and enable statistical evaluations critical for maintaining UNESCO-listed sites like Urbino's walled city.

The Garden Kingdom of Dessau-Wörlitz as an Example for the Management of a Historical Monument

Garden Kingdom of Dessau-Wörlitz — 2016 — WHE7BB26BF7EC

The Garden Kingdom of Dessau-Wörlitz, spanning 145 square kilometers, stands as a critical example for the preservation and management of historical cultural landscapes. This study highlights the necessity of a comprehensive, scientifically grounded approach to safeguard such sites from irreversible changes due to development or infrastructural projects like power lines and wind energy areas. Previous research had focused on individual elements like castles, parks, and town centers, but lacked an integrated analysis of the entire landscape. The monument master plan developed here addresses this gap by providing a holistic framework for evaluating and managing the historical cultural landscape, ensuring its integrity is maintained while balancing modern demands.

The Glaciation of River Imangda Valley (Western Part of Putorana Plateau) in the Late Pleistocene and Holocene

Putorana Plateau — 2016 — WHE73E78BA2E1

Research on the Imangda River valley, part of the Putorana Plateau, reveals four distinct moraine complexes formed during different stages of glaciation. Three of these correspond to known Late Pleistocene deglaciation phases in northwest Siberia: Karaulskaya (25–17 ky BP), Nyapanskaya (15–13 ky BP), and Norilsk (11.5–10.4 ky BP). These moraines exhibit variations in preservation, material roundness, and extent, indicating a dynamic glacial history. The study also identifies a younger moraine from the Little Ice Age, where glaciers were confined to cirques. Unlike previous assumptions, evidence suggests no solid ice cover over the plateau, though isolated ice caps with outlet glaciers may have existed. This research clarifies the complex glaciation patterns of the region during the Late Pleistocene and Holocene.

The Jurassic of the Western Tien Shan: the Central Kyzylkum Region, Uzbekistan

Western Tien-Shan — 2016 — WHEF34CBE28EC

A rare glimpse into the Jurassic period (Bajocian–Bathonian) within the UNESCO-listed Western Tien Shan, specifically the Sarbatyr inlier of Uzbekistan's Kyzylkum region, reveals a dynamic interplay between terrestrial and marine environments. The study, focusing on the Kuduksarbatyr Formation, identifies six distinct sedimentary facies transitioning from conglomerates to mudstones, deposited in distal alluvial fan settings that interdigitated with nearshore/lagoonal sediments rich in fossil fragments and glauconite. This succession highlights three significant transgressive events, including two global Bajocian events and a notable Bajocian–Bathonian boundary event, suggesting prolonged marine influence—contrary to earlier interpretations that assumed a continental setting by the Bathonian. The research underscores the complex interplay between eustatic sea-level changes and local tectonic activity in shaping these ancient landscapes.

The Maastrichtian–Danian Maimará tracksite (Yacoraite Formation, Salta Group), Quebrada de Humahuaca, Argentina: environments and ichnofacies implications

Quebrada de Humahuaca — 2016 — WHE29ED8E3423

A significant discovery of dinosaur and other vertebrate tracks from the late Cretaceous to early Paleogene period (Maastrichtian–Danian) has been made in the Maimará tracksite, part of the Yacoraite Formation within Argentina's Quebrada de Humahuaca. This site provides critical insights into paleoenvironments and ichnofacies during a transitional phase marked by significant climatic and ecological changes. The research combines sedimentological analysis with detailed ichnological study to reconstruct the depositional conditions, trackmakers' behavior, and environmental dynamics of this region. The findings contribute to understanding the biodiversity and paleoecology of the Salta Group, offering new perspectives on the evolutionary history of vertebrates during a pivotal period in Earth's history.

The manifold use of pounding stone tools by wild capuchin monkeys of Serra da Capivara National Park, Brazil

Serra da Capivara National Park — 2016 — WHEC037A7925D

Wild capuchin monkeys (Sapajus libidinosus) in Serra da Capivara National Park, Brazil, exhibit a uniquely diverse use of pounding stone tools (PSTs), surpassing other known populations. Unlike most capuchins that primarily use PSTs to open hard palm nuts, these monkeys employ them for multiple purposes: cracking seeds and fruits, breaking or enlarging holes in tree trunks or rocks, pulverizing pebbles, and sequentially with probe stick tools to access hidden prey. The study suggests active selection of larger stones, indicating a sophisticated tool choice behavior. This research highlights the remarkable cognitive flexibility and adaptability of these capuchins, offering new insights into their behavioral ecology.

The position of the ‘master mason’ (‘magister lapidum’, ‘magister laterum’, ‘steinmeister’, ‘czygelmeyster’, ‘muwermeister’) in the Teutonic Order’s state in Prussia in the 14th and in the first half of the 15th centuries

Castle of the Teutonic Order in Malbork — 2016 — WHEF0C70F0872

Research reveals that the position of 'master mason' within the Teutonic Order's state in Prussia, spanning the 14th and early 15th centuries, played a pivotal role in coordinating brick castle construction. This role, held by knights for specified periods, involved overseeing labor, materials procurement, and work execution, thereby enabling the precise dating of several castles. Notably, the high castle in Ragnit was completed before 1406, while Marienburg (Malbork) underwent development in two phases during the 1340s and 1370s. Additional findings include the construction timeline for castles in Gdańsk, Schlochau, Tuchel, Lauenburg, Barten, Labiau, Neidenburg, and Memel, corroborating historical claims about their erection periods.

The Promise and Peril of Gold Mining on Spanish and Portuguese Imperial Frontiers

Jesuit Missions of the Chiquitos — 2016 — WHE1E72590655

Gold mining in the Chiquitos region, formerly under Jesuit missions and located on the ambiguous frontier between Spanish and Portuguese territories, sparked diverse pro- and anti-mining discourses from 1796 to 1809. The study reveals that these debates were deeply influenced by geographical factors and colonial beliefs about territorial characteristics, rather than solely economic or political motivations. By analyzing archival records and historical texts, the research demonstrates how the region's transimperial jurisdictional status shaped arguments for and against mining, highlighting the complex interplay between geography, imperial power dynamics, and local perceptions during this period.

The Pyu Ancient Cities World Heritage application: lessons from Myanmar on transnational advocacy networks

Pyu Ancient Cities — 2016 — WHE909822BD13

The World Heritage listing of Pyu Ancient Cities in Myanmar marked the country's first site on the UNESCO list, achieved through a transnational advocacy network. This study reveals how such networks can effectively mobilize support across borders to advance conservation efforts against governmental challenges. By analyzing the Pyu case, researchers developed a model demonstrating the efficacy of these networks in advocating for cultural heritage protection. The approach involved examining the convergence of local and international forces, highlighting the role of transnational collaboration in securing global recognition for significant archaeological sites.

The Reformation in Eastern and Central Europe

Churches of Moldavia — 2016 — WHE2CF3A4182E

The Reformation in Eastern and Central Europe significantly reshaped religious, social, and political landscapes. This volume reveals how Protestant movements interacted with local cultures, particularly in regions like Bohemia, Hungary, Transylvania, and Moldavia, where Calvinism became intertwined with estate liberation movements. It highlights the role of private libraries in spreading Protestant literature, the influence of mural painting on religious identity, and the complex negotiations between Protestant theologians and Eastern Orthodox Churches. The study also explores the impact of patronage and recatholicization efforts by nobility, contrasting with the confessionalization of urban centers in royal Prussia. By analyzing church building practices, morals courts, and national historical writing, it provides a nuanced understanding of how Reformation dynamics varied across regions.

The Representation of Heart in Sheikh Abd El Qurna Private Tombs during the 18th Dynasty

Ancient Thebes with its Necropolis — 2016 — WHE1F6F245E74

Preliminary findings from Sheikh Abd El Qurna private tombs reveal that the heart held significant religious symbolism during the 18th Dynasty of Ancient Egypt. The study highlights its representation across various locations, including walls of halls, inner rooms, burial chambers, and passages, in both funerary scenes (e.g., purification and opening of the mouth) and daily life depictions (e.g., offering food to the deceased). The research also emphasizes the symbolic meaning behind different colors and numbers of hearts, as well as their specific placements within tomb scenes. Additionally, it explores chapters dedicated to heart protection in the Book of the Dead, providing insights into Ancient Egyptian conceptions of the heart's role.

The Role of Place Attachment in Developing Emotional Solidarity With Residents

Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove — 2016 — WHE04B5141BAD

Visitors' emotional attachment to the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Nigeria, significantly influences their perceived solidarity with local residents. The study found that place identity and place dependence—two dimensions of place attachment—explained 45% to 54% of the variance in visitors' feelings of emotional closeness, sympathetic understanding, and being welcomed by residents. This suggests that deepening visitors' connection to a site can foster stronger social bonds with communities, offering implications for sustainable tourism practices.