World Heritage Research: Search

Publications

Showing 15041 – 15060 of 15962 publications

The Incalculable Weight of Small Numbers: Hunters, Land Use, and the Poplar River First Nation Proposal for a World Heritage Site

Pimachiowin Aki — 2015 — WHEB785F6E87A

Poplar River First Nation's bid to designate their traditional trapline territory as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Pimachiowin Aki represents a groundbreaking Indigenous-led initiative. This effort leverages global recognition to achieve local goals, challenging conventional development paradigms and ensuring the permanence of cultural practices. Despite its small population, the community's resistance to non-renewable resource exploitation has garnered significant attention in Manitoba, Canada, and internationally. The study highlights the transformative potential of Indigenous-led conservation efforts in redefining land protection and sustainable development.

The Indian Sundarban Mangrove Forests: History, Utilization, Conservation Strategies and Local Perception

The Sundarbans — 2015 — WHE19CE5C6F95

Despite maintaining its vast extent, the Indian Sundarbans mangrove forest has experienced significant changes in health and structure over the past two-and-a-half centuries due to human interference, upstream development, extreme weather events, and climate change effects. This study reveals that while the areal coverage of the mangroves has remained relatively stable recently, their ecological integrity is under threat. Researchers used a multi-temporal and multi-scale approach, combining historical maps and remote sensing data, to trace these changes. The findings underscore the complex interplay between conservation strategies, local livelihoods, and environmental pressures, highlighting the need for adaptive management to protect this critical ecosystem.

The Influence of Destination Personality on Brand Image Evaluation Among Archaeological Tourists

Archaeological Heritage of the Lenggong Valley — 2015 — WHECF0E6E086C

A study on the Archaeological Heritage of the Lenggong Valley reveals that its brand personality significantly influences tourists' evaluation of its image. The research identified six key dimensions—competence, sophistication, sincerity, ruggedness, demonstrative, and emotional—with four (sincerity, ruggedness, sophistication, and demonstrative) positively impacting brand perception. Notably, the dimensions 'demonstrative' and 'emotional' emerged as new contributions to tourism marketing literature. The study analyzed responses from 300 tourists at the Lenggong Valley Archaeological Gallery using Aaker’s (1997) brand personality framework, providing insights into how destination personality shapes archaeological tourism experiences.

The Influence of French Colonial Rule on Lao Architecture with a Focus on Residential Buildings

Town of Luang Prabang — 2015 — WHEAA2B955BDF

French colonial rule (1893–1953) left a lasting architectural imprint on Lao PDR, blending traditional Lao and French elements into climate-adapted designs that persist today. Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995, exemplifies this fusion, where colonial villas subtly influenced local residential structures while retaining cultural authenticity. The study analyzes how social, economic, and climatic factors reshaped these styles, emphasizing their compatibility with tropical conditions. By examining historical adaptations, the research highlights the resilience of Lao architecture in preserving heritage amid foreign influences.

The Integrated Survey for Excavated Architectures: The Complex of Casalnuovo District Within the World Heritage Site “Sassi” (Matera, Italy)

The Sassi and the Park of the Rupestrian Churches of Matera — 2015 — WHE3907AFC69E

A unique urban phenomenon in Matera, Italy, characterized by the volumetric material identity and special construction conditions of its excavated architectures, has been identified. This phenomenon, developed over time under stable environmental conditions, showcases a spontaneous harmonious balance between building artifacts and their calcareous host texture. The study employed an integrated survey approach using non-destructive techniques such as digital photogrammetry, total station, laser scanner, and thermography to create a three-dimensional computer model. This model aids in the diagnosis and preservation of the integrity of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, combining traditional and innovative methods within a dialectic between memory and design.

The landscape of Angkor Wat redefined

Angkor — 2015 — WHE8356F1BF45

Recent advancements in LiDAR technology have revolutionized the understanding of Angkor Wat's landscape, revealing a complex far more extensive and intricate than previously believed. This breakthrough has enabled archaeologists to map hidden terrain beneath dense vegetation, uncovering previously unknown relationships between site elements and exposing a massive, unique structure that was hitherto unknown. The study, which combines high-resolution LiDAR data with targeted ground-based research, provides unprecedented chronological resolution and challenges long-standing assumptions about the Angkor Wat complex.

The Megalithic Quarry of Baalbek: Sector III the Megaliths of Ḥajjar al-Ḥibla

Baalbek — 2015 — WHEE748A5C8D4

A comprehensive study of the megalithic quarry at Baalbek, Lebanon, reveals critical insights into the ancient stone-cutting techniques and the extensive network of quarries used to supply the monumental temples recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The research, conducted collaboratively between the Lebanese University and the German Expedition of Baalbek, documents the quarry's features in Sector III, known as Ḥajjar al-Ḥibla, providing detailed evidence of the sophisticated methods employed by ancient craftsmen. This study builds on earlier excavations initiated in 1898–1903, offering a broader understanding of the quarry's role in the construction of Baalbek's iconic structures, particularly the Temple of Jupiter. The findings contribute significantly to the archaeological narrative of this site, which has been under continuous investigation since its recognition as a World Heritage Site in 1984.

The Painted Angels from the central drum of Convent of Christ Rotunda in Tomar - first results of the material and technical comparative study

Convent of Christ in Tomar — 2015 — WHE4790E97507

A comparative analysis of artificial yellow pigments used in the 15th-century paintings of the Convent of Christ's Rotunda in Tomar, Portugal, reveals distinct differences in stoichiometric ratios, melting temperatures, and color hue among lead-tin yellow (type I and II), lead antimonate yellow, and lead-tin-antimony yellow. The study employed micro-Raman spectroscopy alongside X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectroscopy, and differential thermal analysis to characterize these pigments under varying experimental conditions. Findings highlight correlations between chemical composition, melting processes, and the resulting color properties, offering new insights into the material techniques of Renaissance artists.

The Palmeral of Elche: an urban irrigation landscape

Palmeral of Elche — 2015 — WHE9BB5249F3F

The Palmeral of Elche, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Southeast Spain, exemplifies the ingenious integration of Arab agricultural techniques to create a sustainable urban oasis. This study reveals that the 10th-century palm grove was designed not only for aesthetic beauty but as a functional system to stabilize soil, reduce water evaporation through shading, and shield crops from wind, thereby enhancing irrigation efficiency—a critical innovation for local agriculture and urban development. The research reexamines the grove's evolution, from its Arab origins through Christian conquest in the 13th century to modern transformations that shifted its focus away from agriculture. It also addresses contemporary challenges in preserving this unique landscape, particularly since its UNESCO designation in 2000, highlighting the need for adaptive conservation strategies to balance heritage protection with ecological and cultural sustainability.

The Pillars of the Earth and the Sky

Hattusha: the Hittite Capital — 2015 — WHED64F4DA109

Ancient cities were strategically designed to align with cosmic order, particularly the sun's solstitial movements. A comparative study of four 'solstitial' cities—Thebes (Egypt), Hattusha (Hittite Empire), Carthago Nova (Carthaginian dominions in Iberia), and Petra (Nabataean Kingdom)—reveals a shared pattern: their geographical positions, orography, and monumental orientations were deliberately linked to solar benchmarks. This suggests that Mediterranean societies with strong solar cults or symbolism employed similar urban planning principles, connecting sacred spaces with solstitial orientations. The research uses archaeoastronomy to analyze how these cities integrated astronomical observations into their layouts, offering insights into the religious and cultural significance of solar hierophanies in ancient urban development.

The presence of the marsupial Dromiciops gliroides in Parque Nacional Los Alerces, Chubut, Southern Argentina, after the synchronous maturation and flowering of native bamboo and subsequent rodent irruption

Los Alerces National Park — 2015 — WHE447E171F55

A breeding population of the rare marsupial Dromiciops gliroides, the sole surviving member of the order Microbiotheria, has been discovered in Los Alerces National Park, Argentina—marking its southernmost known range in the country. This finding extends its distribution further south than previously documented and suggests the species thrives in Nothofagus forests, likely using tree hollows for refuge rather than constructing dreys. The study, conducted post a 70-year bamboo flowering event that triggered a rodent irruption, captured four adult Dromiciops gliroides, including two females with pouch young, indicating births occurred between late October and early November. Research suggests the species relies on insects during spring due to limited fruiting plants. Threats to this population include introduced predators and human activities such as farming and tourism.

The Privatization of the Nyungwe National Park Buffer Zone and Implications for Adjacent Communities

Nyungwe National Park — 2015 — WHEB7F91D749D

Privatization of Nyungwe National Park's buffer zone significantly reduces resource access for local communities, particularly poorer households. The study reveals that these communities heavily relied on the buffer zone for wood collection, which contributed substantially to their income. Following the privatization by the New Forest Company, stricter enforcement led to increased difficulty in accessing these resources. Semistructured interviews and empirical data on household resource collection from park, buffer zone, markets, and private lands were used to assess the impact of this management change.

The Recreational Value of Rohtas Fort, Pakistan

Rohtas Fort — 2015 — WHE923CA79451

Rohtas Fort, Pakistan, holds significant recreational value, contributing approximately US$11.70 million annually, equivalent to 0.05% of Pakistan's GDP in 2013. This study employed the Individual Travel Cost Method to estimate consumer surplus and recreational value, identifying key factors influencing visitation frequency—travel cost, household income, age, household size, education, and sex. Visitors expressed high satisfaction with the museum but highlighted cleanliness as a major issue, with waste disposal services needing urgent improvement. The research suggests that increasing entrance fees could generate additional revenue for maintenance and renovation projects, given visitors' willingness to pay.

The Representation of Ambiguity on the Spaces of Luis Barragán House and Studio

Luis Barragán House and Studio — 2015 — WHE7B69CC6E57

Luis Barragán House and Studio, designed by the renowned architect in 1947, exemplifies his groundbreaking approach to spatial representation through ambiguity. This study reveals how Barragán's architectural language was first established here, blending symbolic elements with fluid spatial experiences to evoke emotional responses. The research employs a detailed analysis of the site's design, focusing on its use of color, light, and materiality to create layered perceptions that challenge conventional spatial interpretation. By dissecting these ambiguous spaces, the study highlights Barragán's innovative integration of cultural symbolism and sensory engagement, offering insights into his enduring influence on modern architecture.

The rock art of Kondoa District, Tanzania

Kondoa Rock-Art Sites — 2015 — WHE44677EAF4B

Despite nearly a century of research, the rock art of Kondoa District, Tanzania—part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site—lacks a widely accepted stylistic sequence or clear attribution to specific groups. This study resolves these challenges by introducing a systematic analytical framework that integrates both artistic content and geographical context. The analysis identifies three distinct yet overlapping traditions in the region's rock art, each linked to specific ethnic groups. By providing evidence-based authorship ascriptions, the research reveals the complex cultural interactions and settlement patterns of Kondoa District, offering a foundation for future studies on rock art interpretation.

The Role of Belief and Religion in Creation of Persian Garden

The Persian Garden — 2015 — WHE0F9591C2F7

Persian gardens embody the profound Iranian cultural ideal of harmony between nature and humanity, rooted in deep religious and spiritual beliefs. These gardens serve as tangible representations of paradise, reflecting a universal vision that transcends mere physical beauty, blending historical, religious, and poetic elements into an idealized natural environment. Unlike Western literary depictions, Persian gardens symbolize the sublimation of reality through lush landscapes, flowers, and poetic imagery, creating a spiritual connection to nature. The study highlights how these gardens have evolved over centuries as both physical spaces and inner metaphors, integrating customs, poetry, and spiritual traditions into their design and significance.

The Southwestern Limes of Roman Dacia and Beyond - New Surveys and Excavations

Frontiers of the Roman Empire – Dacia — 2015 — WHE318B6E88EA

Research on the southwestern frontier of Roman Dacia reveals that the Sarmatian Iazyges penetrated the marshy plains east of the river Tisza significantly earlier than previously believed—immediately after the Marcomannic wars (post-180 AD)—rather than at the end of the 3rd century AD. This challenges long-held assumptions about the timeline and extent of their expansion. The study used GPS to precisely locate Roman military sites, map them geo-referenced, and analyze their relationship with ancient landscapes, as well as investigate the so-called 'Roman walls' in southwestern Romania. By integrating surveys, excavations, and spatial analysis, the research provides new insights into the dynamics of frontier defense, settlement patterns, and the interactions between Roman forces and neighboring tribes.

The Surtsey Magma Series

Surtsey — 2015 — WHE00512AF180

Research on the Surtsey Magma Series reveals that the chemical composition of lavas from this iconic phreatomagmatic eruption evolved progressively, becoming more primitive over time. This variation is best explained by mixing different proportions of depleted ridge-like basalt and ponded, enriched alkalic basalt, similar to those found in Iceland's Eastern Volcanic Zone. However, the study also identifies a systematic offset in Nb/Zr ratios, suggesting that the end members used for this explanation are not fully represented in existing literature. The findings highlight processes occurring in ephemeral magma bodies on the extreme leading edge of a propagating off-axis rift near the Iceland plume, providing new insights into volcanic activity at the southwestern-most volcano in the Vestmannaeyjar.

The Trees of the Sacred Natural Sites of Zagori, NW Greece

Zagori Cultural Landscape — 2015 — WHEA7621242B6

Sacred trees in Zagori, NW Greece, serve as enduring symbols of spirituality and local history, their sanctity often tied to proximity or connection with churches. These trees, distinguished by their size, longevity, and natural growth—protected by strong taboos against private use—reflect a deep cultural significance. Research reveals distinct associations between tree species and sacred site types: broadleaved oaks and maples are linked to outlying churches, plane trees dominate central squares near churches as focal points for community life, while cemeteries now feature planted conifers replacing native evergreens. Local communities perceive these trees as living elements of collective memory, underscoring their role in preserving cultural heritage.

The Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius in the Context of the “Museum” Perception of the Pre-Revolutionary Russia

Architectural Ensemble of the Trinity Sergius Lavra in Sergiev Posad — 2015 — WHEEE181F0CEC

The Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius was perceived as a 'National museum' in pre-revolutionary Russia, blending religious and cultural significance. This study reveals how the site's historical and artistic heritage was interpreted through a museum lens, reflecting complex interactions between the Church and society. By analyzing examples of this approach, the research demonstrates that the Lavra functioned not only as a spiritual center but also as a repository of national identity, bridging religious devotion with cultural preservation. The findings underscore the Lavra's dual role in shaping collective memory and heritage perception during a pivotal period in Russian history.