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Showing 1501 – 1520 of 15962 publications

A Top-Down, Multi-Method and Multi-Scale Approach to Studying the Byzantine–Umayyad Settlement of Umm ar-Rasas (Amman, Jordan)

Um er-Rasas (Kastrom Mefa'a) — 2025 — WHED4790A197D

A groundbreaking study at the UNESCO World Heritage Site Umm ar-Rasas (Kastrom Mefa'a) in Jordan has successfully delineated the northern boundaries of its Byzantine–Umayyad settlement, a task previously confined to theoretical discourse. The research, conducted between 2021 and 2023 as part of an ongoing multidisciplinary project initiated in 2013, employed a novel combination of remote sensing technologies, archaeological surveys, laser scans, and geophysical prospecting. This multi-methodological approach allowed for the first shared interpretation of the settlement's configuration, offering significant insights into its spatial organization during this pivotal period.

A Value-Based Risk Assessment of Water-Related Hazards: The Archaeological Site of the Sanctuary of Asklepios at Epidaurus

Sanctuary of Asklepios at Epidaurus — 2025 — WHE8FABFB8CAF

Intensified surface water runoff and localized water inundation pose significant threats to key monuments at the Sanctuary of Asklepios at Epidaurus. Projections indicate that climate change will exacerbate hydroclimatic extremes in the Mediterranean region, particularly affecting the Roman Odeion and central parts of the site's ensemble. This study employs a value-based risk assessment approach, integrating GIS-based hydrological modeling (HAND), field observations, material assessments, and NARA Grids to link exposure, vulnerability, and potential value loss. The findings highlight the need for site-specific climate change adaptation strategies, prioritizing drainage enhancement, preventive conservation, and continuous monitoring to preserve the site's Outstanding Universal Values under changing climatic conditions.

A Vertical Palimpsest. Construction and structural evolution of the Bell Tower of the Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba

Historic Centre of Cordoba — 2025 — WHE0FF2022267

The Bell Tower of the Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba, standing 54 meters tall, is revealed as a 'vertical palimpsest'—a composite structure where successive historical layers have reshaped its form while preserving traces of past iterations. This study deciphers the tower's evolution through archival analysis, 2D/3D reconstructions, and on-site surveys, uncovering how the original caliphal minaret, later Christian masonry additions, and modern interventions interact structurally. The findings provide a geometric and structural framework essential for future seismic and geotechnical assessments of this complex heritage site.

A Virtual Reality Immersive Experience of Sri Lanka's Sacred Heritage: VR Meditation Experience at the Ruwanweli Maha Seya using Heart Rate and HRV Tracking

Sacred City of Anuradhapura — 2025 — WHE54B65BE99E

A five-minute VR meditation session at Sri Lanka's Ruwanweli Maha Seya, part of the UNESCO-listed Sacred City of Anuradhapura, demonstrated measurable physiological benefits: a 5.4 BPM decrease in average heart rate and a 10-point increase in heart rate variability (HRV). This suggests that immersive VR environments can replicate the stress-reducing effects of traditional meditation at sacred sites, regardless of physical location. The study used a Unity-based application to simulate four Atamasthana sites, tracking real-time physiological responses via heart rate and HRV monitoring. Findings highlight the potential of VR to bridge cultural preservation with digital wellness, offering scalable solutions for mental relaxation while advancing research on both religious heritage and biometric feedback in meditation practices.

A Walk to the Park: Trail Connectivity in Orick, California

Redwood National and State Parks — 2025 — WHE2A0FDBBF3C

A proposed connector trail aims to link the unincorporated community of Orick, California, with Redwood National and State Parks, offering residents and tourists a pedestrian and cycling route. This study identifies key constraints hindering the trail's implementation: insufficient funding, absence of a project proponent, and challenging terrain. Collaboration among organizations, community engagement, and strategic prioritization are critical for success. The research, based on planning documents, field observations, participant observation, and stakeholder interviews, highlights competing priorities in rural development as a recurring obstacle. Future revisits to this project could yield better outcomes with increased resources, capacity, and focus.

About the recently discovered settlement in the Khurkh river valley

Orkhon Valley Cultural Landscape — 2025 — WHE232F8E4DF8

A recently discovered fortified settlement in the Khurkh River Valley, identified through satellite remote sensing and confirmed by field research in 2023 and 2025, provides new insights into the spatial distribution of Xiongnu-period settlements. The settlement, located near significant aristocratic burial complexes (Duurlig Nars and Bor Bulag), offers critical data for understanding the function and purpose of Xiongnu fortified structures in Mongolia's Orkhon Valley Cultural Landscape—a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Future research will focus on analyzing rectangular irrigation channels surrounding the site to clarify its role, potentially shedding light on ancient water management practices.

Abramis brama

Tugay forests of the Tigrovaya Balka Nature Reserve — 2025 — WHE2B65A063AA

Abramis brama, commonly known as the silver bream, has been documented in the Tigrovaya Balka Nature Reserve, Tajikistan, specifically in the Kairakkum reservoir and the lower reaches of the Vakhsh River. This study contributes to the understanding of its distribution and conservation status in the region, revealing that it is classified as vulnerable according to local assessments (Saidov, 2017), though globally considered least concern by IUCN standards (Freyhof and Kottelat, 2008). The research involved examining specimens caught between 2003 and 2018 in floodplain lakes and riverbeds within the reserve. This finding underscores the need for targeted conservation efforts to protect this species in its Tajikistani habitat.

Absent Voices and Unwarranted Presences: A Combined Multi-Approach to Mapping the Roman Hydraulic System Supplying Las Médulas Gold Mine (NW, Iberia)

Las Médulas — 2025 — WHE03DF3B7D91

A groundbreaking study reveals that the Roman hydraulic system supplying Las Médulas gold mine, spanning 1110 km, served purposes beyond mining. Using advanced geomatic techniques and a novel Matlab script, researchers identified 41 canals—33 in La Cabrera and eight in El Bierzo—with 14 directly feeding Las Médulas. The findings challenge long-held assumptions about water sources and construction methods, providing a detailed map that also serves as a methodological model for studying ancient hydraulic systems worldwide.

Abundance and Distribution of Carnivorous Mammals in a Protected Area : Preliminary Study in the Mount Nimba Integral Nature Reserve (West, Cote Divoire)

Mount Nimba Strict Nature Reserve — 2025 — WHE817A3C6A87

A preliminary study in the Mount Nimba Strict Nature Reserve, Côte d'Ivoire, identified five carnivore species—golden cat (Caracal aurata), African civet (Civettictis civetta), African genet (Genetta genetta), marsh mongoose (Atilax paludinosus), and brown mongoose (Crossarchus obscurus)—with the Viverridae family being the most abundant. The research, conducted from 2020 to 2024 using line transect counting and camera trapping, found carnivores distributed across four habitat types: dense lowland forests, dense montane forests, gallery, and secondary forests. Abundance was notably higher in the southern and northern regions of the reserve. The study highlights the need for further research on prey spectra and activity patterns to deepen understanding of ecosystem dynamics and support sustainable conservation efforts.

Accessibility patterns and socio-spatial dynamics: Insights from the historic city of Yazd

Historic City of Yazd — 2025 — WHE26E8A58752

The historic city of Yazd exhibits distinct spatial hierarchies and circulation networks that deeply influence its socio-cultural dynamics. A study using Angular Segment analysis revealed how the city's urban fabric integrates traditional social practices and cultural values into its built environment, shaping everyday functionality and heritage identity. This approach uncovered patterns of integration, foreground-background relationships, and movement networks, offering insights that bridge spatial analysis with cultural interpretation. The findings underscore the importance of preserving these socio-spatial dynamics for the liveability and integrity of historic cities, contributing significantly to debates on urban conservation and planning.

Accessible Caves in Slovakia as a Tool for Geoscience Education

Caves of Aggtelek Karst and Slovak Karst — 2025 — WHE0B4847715A

Slovakia's rich karst landscape, home to over 8,100 caves, offers unparalleled opportunities for geoscience education. These subterranean environments serve as natural laboratories for studying geological processes, hydrological cycles, climate change, and the history of life on Earth. Accessible caves provide a unique platform for both experts and the general public to explore these phenomena through educational activities and guided tours. This study characterizes Slovakia's accessible caves, assessing their current state, protection measures, utilization, and presentation methods. By leveraging these geological wonders, the research highlights their potential as valuable tools for enhancing public understanding of Earth sciences.

According to Byzantine Designs: Syrian Merchants in the West and Early Christian Architecture

Early Christian Monuments of Ravenna — 2025 — WHE3B3A100E4B

Syrian merchant communities in post-Roman Europe played a significant role in transmitting Eastern Mediterranean architectural and liturgical traditions to the West, likely influencing early Christian architecture from Ravenna to Ireland. The study identifies octagonal baptisteries and cathedrals—such as those in Milan and Ravenna—as hallmarks of Antiochian architectural influence, suggesting direct imitation or involvement of Syrian craftsmen. Archaeological and historical evidence supports the presence of these communities, with parallels drawn to better-documented merchant groups, like Greek traders in Ukraine. The research highlights how even small, resourceful migrant groups can leave a lasting cultural imprint.

Accounting Difference: Institutional Avant-Gardism and Class Representation in Mir Seid Ali’s Photographic Archive

Golestan Palace — 2025 — WHE87B42D0F00

Mir Seid Ali's photographic archive from Golestan Palace reveals a distinct Iranian photographic modernism characterized by metacritical awareness of representation and power, challenging conventional narratives that pit institutional conservatism against artistic innovation. His strategic use of formal elements, such as the balustrade motif and dual representational modes, served as theoretical propositions on photographic mediation and social classification. This 'institutional avant-garde' approach not only prefigured visual strategies used during the Constitutional Revolution but also positions Mir Seid Ali as a pivotal figure in late Qajar visual culture. The study analyzes his corpus to demonstrate how his work, when compared with contemporaries like Antoin Sevruguin, offers new insights into the development of modernism and class representation in Iranian photography.

Acoustic Emission for Structural Monitoring of Historical Masonry: An In-Field Application

Church and Dominican Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie with “The Last Supper” by Leonardo da Vinci — 2025 — WHE144FAD6688

Acoustic Emission (AE) shows promise as a non-invasive tool for monitoring the structural health of historic masonry, despite challenges posed by material heterogeneity. A field test at the Church and Dominican Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie demonstrated that AE can provide qualitative insights into damage initiation and progression when combined with conventional monitoring methods. The study highlights AE's potential to complement traditional techniques in heritage conservation, offering a more comprehensive interpretation of structural behavior under load tests.

Adaptive Reuse of Historic Dwellings into Cafés: Design Challenges and Planning Issues in Hebron

Hebron/Al-Khalil Old Town — 2025 — WHE3A4ABF65EB

Adaptive reuse of historic dwellings into cafés in Hebron’s Old Town preserves cultural heritage while enhancing functionality. The study found that integrating traditional architectural features—such as niches and cabinets—with sustainable solutions effectively addresses challenges like humidity and outdated infrastructure, reducing costs without compromising historical integrity. This approach not only maintains aesthetic value but also strengthens local identity. The research analyzed multiple dwelling models using a scientific analytical methodology, combining literature reviews, interviews, and surveys to assess the success of transformations. It underscores the importance of thoughtful interventions that balance preservation with modern needs, offering a model for similar contexts.

Adaptive strategies and community engagement for sustainable conservation and tourism in Komodo National Park, Indonesia

Komodo National Park — 2025 — WHE8578ABE973

A key finding from this study is that sociodemographic factors significantly influence local communities' attitudes toward conservation and their willingness to engage in sustainable tourism practices, which are critical for the long-term viability of Komodo National Park. Using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), researchers analyzed how these factors interact to either support or hinder habitat conservation while promoting responsible tourism growth. The study highlights that adaptive management programs and community-centered strategies play a pivotal role in fostering sustainable outcomes. Policy recommendations emphasize education on sustainable practices, adaptive management, and stronger community involvement to balance biodiversity protection with tourism development.

Africam defendere

Dougga / Thugga — 2025 — WHEC3E253A368

A fortified landscape emerged in Thugga (modern Tunisia) during the 6th and 7th centuries, marked by strategic fortifications that reshaped late antique settlement systems. This study reveals how forts, city walls, and watchtowers adapted to evolving security needs, while also uncovering decision-making processes behind their construction through analysis of spolia—a first for Byzantine North African archaeology. The research applies landscape archaeology to trace material resource use and fortification strategies, offering a model for future studies in the Maghreb.

African Conservation Success: Niokolo-Koba National Park (Senegal) Removed from the List of World Heritage in Danger

Niokolo-Koba National Park — 2025 — WHE8951CBCCDA

Niokolo-Koba National Park (NKNP) in Senegal successfully transitioned from the UNESCO World Heritage List of Danger to regular status by 2024, marking a significant conservation achievement. This success was driven by regional and international cooperation, enhanced monitoring, and community engagement, which mitigated threats such as poaching, livestock grazing, and dam construction. The study highlights the complex challenges and governance needs in heritage conservation, emphasizing the importance of long-term investment from national governments and international partners to ensure sustainable financing through ecotourism, recognition, or ecosystem services. The case also underscores the positive impact of improved national governance and collaborative partnerships involving NGOs and the private sector on conservation efforts, particularly in regions with severe human interference and socio-economic pressures.

African wild dog population status in the Selous-Nyerere landscape, southern Tanzania: Insights from camera trap surveys

Selous Game Reserve — 2025 — WHE01BEAFEE71

A critical update on the status of African wild dogs (Lycaon pictus) in the Selous-Nyerere landscape, southern Tanzania, reveals one of Africa's most important remaining populations. Using camera trap surveys across 4,674 km² from 2020 to 2022, researchers identified 222 wild dogs and estimated a population density of 2.14 ± 0.45 adult and yearling individuals per 100 km² in Selous Game Reserve (GR). This study highlights the potential of camera traps for monitoring endangered carnivores but also notes limitations for this species. While not directly addressing mortality, it underscores the need for long-term conservation efforts to protect this vital stronghold against identified threats.

After al-Manṣūr

San Millán Yuso and Suso Monasteries — 2025 — WHE34E3CA805F

A significant shift in Castilian art and governance emerged after the death of Muslim general al-Manṣūr in 1002, marking a period of relative isolation from Europe due to sustained conflict within the Iberian Peninsula. This study reveals how Count Fernán González's hereditary rule and autonomous yet subservient position to León laid the foundation for Castile's distinct identity. The research focuses on art produced between c. 970–1030, analyzing surviving sites in Burgos—such as Cardeña, Covarrubias, and San Millán de la Cogolla—and comparing them with neighboring regions like Soria and the Kingdom of León. Sculptural fragments provide evidence of additional structures, offering insights into Castile's unique artistic and political development during this transformative era.