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Showing 1561 – 1580 of 15962 publications

Analysis of the Bathing Suitability of Lagoons in the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park

Lençóis Maranhenses National Park — 2025 — WHE153BF707C2

Lagoons in Lençóis Maranhenses National Park exhibit excellent water quality, posing no health risks to visitors. A study analyzed bathing suitability using microbiological and physical-chemical assessments, following CONAMA resolution No. 274/00 standards. The research, conducted by Santos and Novaes (2025), found that the lagoons—Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Bonita—met safety criteria for swimming and water sports on most sampled days. While the findings confirm current suitability, the authors highlight the need for further studies to evaluate other potential environmental factors affecting bathing conditions. This work provides critical data for ICMBio, aiding conservation efforts in this UNESCO-listed site.

Analysis of the conflicts between development preferences and spatial differences based on participatory mapping in the Honghe Hani Rice Terraces World Heritage Site, China

Cultural Landscape of Honghe Hani Rice Terraces — 2025 — WHE0EFB18072F

A study on the Honghe Hani Rice Terraces World Heritage Site reveals significant conflicts between development preferences and spatial differences among stakeholders, including local residents, tourists, and scholars. Using participatory mapping and semi-structured interviews, researchers identified diverse attitudes toward tourism development and landscape value, providing insights into the underlying mechanisms of land use conflicts in heritage protection. The findings highlight the importance of understanding stakeholder perspectives to balance human-environment interactions and ensure sustainable development at cultural landscape sites.

Analysis of the Dynamic Evolution of Research on Music-Related Intangible Cultural Heritage of Mount Wutai

Mount Wutai — 2025 — WHE3A57EE34F6

Research on the musical intangible cultural heritage of Mount Wutai, China, has evolved significantly from singular to diverse topics over the past four decades. This shift reflects influences such as historical evolution, regional customs, Buddhist rituals, and contemporary multiculturalism. Analyzing 108 publications—including journal articles and dissertations—using chronological, cluster, and co-word analyses, the study reveals that research trends have diversified in response to these cultural and societal factors. The findings underscore the dynamic nature of intangible cultural heritage studies, highlighting how external influences shape academic exploration.

Analysis of the Dynamics of Tourism Development in Kyrgyzstan

Tajik National Park (Mountains of the Pamirs) — 2025 — WHE5678AD52C4

Kyrgyzstan's tourism sector is experiencing rapid growth, contributing significantly to the national economy and positioning itself as a key driver of economic development. The study identifies key indicators such as increased bed capacity, rising tourist numbers, and infrastructure improvements, which reflect this dynamic growth since the early 1990s. However, challenges such as limited transport accessibility, environmental concerns, seasonality, political instability, and the need for effective marketing strategies are highlighted. The research suggests that expanding seasonal offerings, promoting environmental sustainability, improving visa policies, and strengthening advertising efforts could further boost Kyrgyzstan's tourism sector and stimulate economic growth. This analysis underscores the importance of strategic interventions to address current challenges and capitalize on the country's unique natural and cultural resources, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Issyk-Kul, Ala-Archa National Park, and the Tien Shan and Pamir mountain ranges.

Analysis of the Preah Vihear Temple Dispute in the Perspective of International Law on the Acquisition of State Territorial Sovereignty

Temple of Preah Vihear — 2025 — WHE720B441390

International adjudication mechanisms provide strong legal legitimacy to Cambodia's sovereignty claims over the Preah Vihear Temple, as demonstrated by the 2013 reaffirmation by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) following its 1962 ruling. This study analyzes the decades-long dispute between Thailand and Cambodia from the perspective of international law on territorial acquisition, focusing on principles such as estoppel, acquiescence, and uti possidetis juris. The research highlights the importance of respecting colonial-era boundaries in contemporary sovereignty disputes while emphasizing the need to protect cultural heritage during international conflicts. By examining the legal intricacies of the dispute, the study underscores how international law can resolve complex border issues with lasting legitimacy.

Analysis of the Tourism Value Chain in Colombia: Challenges and Opportunities for Sustainable Development

Historic Centre of Santa Cruz de Mompox — 2025 — WHECECF36DAC7

A promising outlook for sustainable tourism development emerges from the analysis of Colombia's Cartagena de Indias-Santa Cruz de Mompox tourist route, which combines colonial charm, biodiversity, and cultural traditions. The study reveals that while infrastructure and essential services are well-developed, significant gaps exist in destination promotion and local resident training, limiting the region's ability to deliver high-quality experiences. Leveraging digital tools like mobile applications and augmented reality could modernize visitor experiences and attract tech-savvy travelers. The research utilized an exploratory and descriptive methodology, including documentary analysis, surveys with key stakeholders, and digital mapping, employing a 'Scoring' multicriteria decision-making method to evaluate factors such as infrastructure, accessibility, promotion, population density, and visitor volume. The findings highlight the potential for integrating community-based tourism initiatives, strengthening marketing strategies, and investing in infrastructure that caters to emerging global trends like regenerative tourism, positioning the route as a model of sustainable tourism development in Colombia.

Analysis of urban multifunctional land use in historical centres: the case of the Casbah of Algiers

Kasbah of Algiers — 2025 — WHEB444BFCD61

A new GIS-based analysis reveals that the Algiers Casbah's Ottoman-era urban fabric embodies multifunctional land use (MLU) principles, demonstrating how traditional cities can achieve sustainability through mixed-density housing and diverse facilities. Unlike modern 'new urbanism' approaches, this study shows MLU emerged organically in historic centres, fostering socially vibrant areas while conserving environmental resources. The research digitised the Casbah's spatial data to quantify its multifunctionality, offering insights into how heritage sites can balance development with ecological and social resilience.

Analysis of vernacular dwellings in Iraq: A comparative study of Erbil citadel and old Akre

Erbil Citadel — 2025 — WHE0989FA3E90

Vernacular architecture in Erbil Citadel and Old Akre, two historic Iraqi settlements, demonstrates context-sensitive design principles that address climatic, topographical, and social factors while maintaining cultural continuity. A comparative analysis reveals how both sites efficiently use locally available resources—such as mud brick and timber in Erbil or stone and lime in Old Akre—to achieve thermal comfort, privacy, and community integration. Erbil’s compact, inward-oriented courtyard houses contrast with Old Akre’s terraced layout, adapted to mountainous terrain, yet both showcase sustainable design strategies that remain relevant for contemporary urban development. This study highlights the potential of traditional practices as a framework for climate-responsive and culturally integrated architecture.

Analytical study of a Roman bronze steelyard balance from Leptis Magna, Libya: manufacturing techniques and burial degradation

Archaeological Site of Leptis Magna — 2025 — WHEB368613B1A

A Roman bronze steelyard balance from Leptis Magna, Libyareveals advanced manufacturing techniques and severe burial degradation. The artifact, composed of copper and leaded tin bronze (Cu-Sn-Pb), showcases a composite construction with hammered bronze fittings and twisted copper foil chains wrapped around an organic core. Corrosion analysis identified cuprite and chloride-based phases (atacamite and cotunnite), indicating prolonged exposure to chloride-rich soils, which led to the loss of critical functional components like counterweights and scales. This study sheds light on Roman-era trade technologies while providing crucial insights for artifact conservation.

Anatolians during the Old Assyrian Period from the Etymological Perspective

Hattusha: the Hittite Capital — 2025 — WHE2359F3476E

A new etymological analysis of Old Assyrian cuneiform tablets from Anatolia reveals that the Hittite people were already deeply integrated into the region long before the rise of the Old Hittite Kingdom. Contrary to the traditional narrative, these findings indicate that the Hittites were not recent invaders but rather a sophisticated civilization with roots spanning hundreds or even a thousand years. The study suggests significant cultural and ethnic blending among Hittite, Luwian, Hurrian, and Hattian communities, highlighting Anatolia's complex pre-Hittite history. This challenges long-held assumptions about the origins of the Hittites and their political development.

Anatómia historického domu. Hodnoty historickej architektúry a urbanizmu Banskej Štiavnice

Historic Town of Banská Štiavnica and the Technical Monuments in its Vicinity — 2025 — WHEACBC1299C2

A comprehensive analysis reveals the cultural values embedded in the historical architecture and urbanism of Banská Štiavnica. The study highlights regional architectural characteristics through detailed examination of construction principles, stylistic shapes, and urban layouts, using specific examples from the city. It emphasizes the importance of preserving these unique typologies—such as town houses, craftsman's houses, and miner's houses—which are frequently adapted for residential functions. Architectural drawings by Marcel Mészáros provide a visual representation of these insights, offering both academic and practical guidance for heritage protection and restoration efforts.

Ancient mortar technology of the 1600-year-old renowned Buddhist University and UNESCO world heritage site

Archaeological Site of Nalanda Mahavihara at Nalanda, Bihar — 2025 — WHEAF10B84D62

A groundbreaking analysis of the 1600-year-old Nalanda Mahavihara, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and renowned Buddhist university, reveals advanced ancient mortar technology. The study identifies a durable, multi-layered plaster system using hydraulic lime with pozzolanic materials and fine aggregates, enhanced by organic additives for water resistance. Mud mortar, primarily composed of locally sourced silt, was used for bed joints, showing compatibility with bricks. However, salt and gypsum contamination in external layers suggest environmental degradation over centuries. This research provides unprecedented insights into the construction techniques that contributed to Nalanda's longevity.

Ancoraimes, Vestiges of the “Qhapaq Ñan” and Pre-Inca Tradition in Bolivia

Qhapaq Ñan, Andean Road System — 2025 — WHE13A1B44336

A segment of the Qhapaq Ñan, or Great Inca Road, in Bolivia's Ancoraimes region, persists as both a physical and cultural axis for Aymara communities. Despite significant deterioration from vegetation changes, waste accumulation, and climatic stressors, the road retains its symbolic and functional relevance, serving as a living space for rituals and collective gatherings that reinforce social cohesion and territorial identity. This study highlights the urgent need for conservation measures to protect this UNESCO-listed heritage site while engaging local communities in its preservation.

Andrea Bruno e l’Afghanistan: memoria, restauro e paesaggi culturali tra XX e XXI secolo | Andrea Bruno in Afghanistan. Memory, Restoration, and Cultural Landscape between 20th and 21st Century

Minaret and Archaeological Remains of Jam — 2025 — WHE139FEC4A95

Andrea Bruno's conservation work in Afghanistan, spanning from 1960 to 2016, offers a groundbreaking model for heritage preservation in crisis contexts. His methodology evolved from preventive documentation to an ethical approach that prioritizes adaptability and recognizability of interventions while maintaining attention to local building techniques. This integrated strategy combines preservation, reuse, and cultural narrative, as demonstrated through case studies including the Minaret of Jam, the Buddhas of Bamiyan, the Mausoleum of Abdur Razzaq, and the Citadel of Herat. Bruno's approach serves as a critical laboratory for rethinking conservation practices in unstable environments, blending technical expertise with a deep respect for cultural landscapes.

Anglo-Norman Studies XLVII

Canterbury Cathedral, St Augustine's Abbey, and St Martin's Church — 2025 — WHE506D8A6B7A

Anglo-Norman Studies XLVII offers a comprehensive exploration of the Anglo-Norman period, revealing its intellectual and political dynamism through diverse scholarly analyses. The volume highlights key insights into the production and significance of charters, diplomatic practices, and the roles of influential figures such as Peter the Deacon, Bishop Odo of Bayeux, and Eudo Dapifer. It also examines the portrayal of historical figures in Old Norse sagas and the evolution of institutions like St John's Abbey in Colchester. By integrating literary, historical, and archaeological perspectives, this collection provides a nuanced understanding of Anglo-Norman culture, governance, and religious practices during a pivotal era.

Annotated list of amphibians and reptiles of Costa Rica: The role of the Museum of Zoology in cataloging the country’s herpetological diversity

Talamanca Range-La Amistad Reserves / La Amistad National Park — 2025 — WHEAC61076364

Costa Rica's herpetological diversity, comprising 221 amphibian and 257 reptile species, has been significantly documented through the efforts of the Museum of Zoology at the University of Costa Rica (MZUCR). This collection, one of the most comprehensive in the country, holds over 24,000 cataloged specimens, including critical holotypes and paratypes for 47 species. The study updates the list of native species, addressing taxonomic controversies, while also tracing the history of the MZUCR's collection since its inception in the 1960s. Despite extensive sampling, gaps remain in the northern lowlands and Caribbean foothills of the Talamanca Range, indicating ongoing exploration needs. The research underscores the museum's pivotal role in advancing biological knowledge and taxonomic decisions for Costa Rica's herpetofauna.

Annual Dynamics of Mycobiota in Symptomatic Century-Old Trees of Aesculus hippocastanum, Fagus sylvatica, Populus alba, and Quercus robur

Lednice-Valtice Cultural Landscape — 2025 — WHE06BF70E4D9

Aging trees within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Lednice-Valtice Cultural Landscape exhibit dynamic and host-dependent fungal communities that significantly influence their decline. The study, conducted on century-old horse chestnut, Copper beech, poplar, and oak trees, revealed that fungal diversity and composition vary both among tree species and over time. Notably, Copper beech showed the most pronounced annual decline in fungal richness (-83%), while horse chestnut and poplar displayed significant increases (+65% and +42%, respectively). Ascomycota dominated across all hosts (72–89% of reads), with Basidiomycota contributing 8–24%. The research used ITS2 high-throughput sequencing to profile fungal assemblages, demonstrating that the wood mycobiome is neither static nor functionally neutral but actively shapes tree decline trajectories in managed historical park landscapes.

Anomaly identification in historical modular structures using satellite data: Methodology and application to Portico di San Luca, Bologna

The Porticoes of Bologna — 2025 — WHE750912C0BE

A novel satellite-based methodology enables near-real-time detection of structural anomalies in historical modular buildings, such as the UNESCO-listed Portico di San Luca in Bologna. Unlike traditional velocity mapping requiring multi-year data, this approach identifies deviations from collective segment behavior at each acquisition, filtering out environmental noise and avoiding detailed mechanical modeling. Validated against conventional methods, it offers a scalable, non-invasive tool for cultural heritage preservation.

Antheua lobo Laszlo & Schintlmeister 2025, sp. nov.

Forest Massif of Odzala-Kokoua — 2025 — WHECF850A0A5B

A new moth species, Antheua lobo, has been discovered within the Odzala-Kokoua National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Republic of Congo. This species is distinguished by its smaller size (forewing length 19–22 mm in males and 23 mm in females), unique genitalia morphology, and absence of a pale discal spot characteristic of related species like A. obtusipuncta. Key distinguishing features include a blackish shadow at the base of the forewing anal margin, bilobated uncus tip, shorter socius processes, and less sclerotized female genitalia. The discovery was made through extensive light-trapping surveys conducted near the Lobo research camp, which revealed A. lobo's restriction to isolated savannah and grassland habitats within the Congo Basin. This finding highlights the biodiversity richness of Odzala-Kokoua, emphasizing the importance of protected areas in conserving unique species.

Anthropogenic Disturbances in Northwestern Virunga Forest Amid Armed Conflict

Virunga National Park — 2025 — WHE7C72B8C46A

Despite the presence of army camps within Virunga National Park, forest fragmentation did not significantly increase between 2016 and 2023. While some sites showed passive forest restoration due to reduced conversion of forest areas during periods of insecurity, nine anthropogenic factors—primarily cash crops (74.17%), food crops (72.50%), and trees cut for energy (61.61%)—continued to disturb the forest. A multiscalar approach, combining spatial analysis with field observations, revealed these disturbances, though their full extent requires further detailed study.