World Heritage Research: Search

Publications

Showing 16421 – 16440 of 30345 publications

Dilemma: landscape requalification or low-growing vineyards conservation? The case study of Tramonti (Liguria, Italy)

Portovenere, Cinque Terre, and the Islands (Palmaria, Tino and Tinetto) — 2019 — WHE34DBBB23F5

A pilot project in Tramonti, Italy, demonstrates that transitioning from traditional low-growing vineyards to higher cultivation methods can effectively revive abandoned terraced landscapes while preserving their cultural heritage. The study, conducted within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Porto Venere, Cinque Terre, and the Islands, found that adopting 'high' viticulture techniques—allowing for controlled mowing around root systems—can balance landscape requalification with the conservation of historical practices. This approach addresses the challenges posed by difficult environmental conditions while offering a sustainable solution to the abandonment of terraced vineyards. The project, led by La Spezia municipality and involving a 20-year concession to an association for maintenance and cultivation, presents a pragmatic alternative to the near-impossible preservation of traditional 'low' viticulture methods.

Dimensional, Age and Spatial Structure of Middle Taiga Postfire Pine Stands on Automorphic Soils (on the Example of Komi Republic)

Virgin Komi Forests — 2019 — WHEC5AEFBF72A

A new understanding of postfire pine stand dynamics in middle taiga ecosystems emerges from this study, revealing that both stepwise-different-aged and conditionally different-aged stands form under pyrogenic influence. The research demonstrates that while tree distribution is largely random, weak aggregation of young trees occurs at distances of 2–6 meters, with undergrowth and self-sowing exhibiting group distribution at smaller scales (1–2 meters). Notably, the study identifies a shift in crown space towards maximum solar radiation in thinned, high-age stands—a phenomenon absent in other pine forest types. Additionally, young trees show a 'convergence' effect due to snow pressure-induced trunk inclination, leading to denser crown distribution compared to their base positions. These findings were derived from detailed morphometric and spatial analyses of virgin monodominant pine communities with fire histories ranging from 5 to 130 years.

DInSAR Analysis and Analytical Modeling of Mount Etna Displacements: The December 2018 Volcano‐Tectonic Crisis

Mount Etna — 2019 — WHE96902721F5

A dike intrusion during the December 2018 eruption of Mount Etna triggered the opening of eruptive fissures and activated shallow volcano-tectonic faults, including the Fiandaca Fault, which experienced the strongest seismic event (ML 4.8) on December 26. The study combines DInSAR measurements from Sentinel-1 satellite data with analytical modeling to reveal that fault activation was a response to deformations caused by magma injection. This finding sheds light on the complex interactions between magma intrusion and tectonic structures, offering insights into the dynamics of volcanic crises.

Disaster as Opportunity? Cyclone Pam and the Transmission of Cultural Heritage

Chief Roi Mata’s Domain — 2019 — WHEA769BD3E08

Cyclone Pam (2015) exposed both risks and opportunities for cultural heritage transmission at Chief Roi Mata’s Domain (CRMD), a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Vanuatu. The study reveals that while disasters often threaten tangible and intangible heritage, they can also catalyze its redefinition and renewal. By analyzing the disaster's impact through a 'disaster biography' framework, researchers found that repetitive natural hazards reshape cultural practices and heritage narratives, blending destruction with creative adaptation. This approach shifts focus from loss to opportunity, demonstrating how post-disaster cultural reworkings can preserve or transform heritage in dynamic ways.

Discrete Sampling: There is No Object or Field … Just Statistical Digital Patterns

Bauhaus and its Sites in Weimar, Dessau and Bernau — 2019 — WHEF936B71CBB

Research by Immanuel Koh challenges traditional architectural design paradigms by demonstrating that iconic structures, including Walter Gropius's Bauhaus building and Mies van der Rohe's Barcelona Pavilion, can be digitally decomposed into discrete figure-and-ground cells. These cells, when reconfigured, retain the spatial features of the original designs without adhering to conventional object-field distinctions. Koh's approach leverages statistical digital patterns to generate new configurations, offering a novel perspective on architectural design and its future possibilities.

Discussion on Restoration Design of Landscape Site Based on 3DTerrestrial Laser Scanning : a Case Study of Qiwang Hall in Summer Palace, Beijing, China

Summer Palace, an Imperial Garden in Beijing — 2019 — WHED25A31D698

A novel application of three-dimensional terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) demonstrates its potential to advance the restoration and preservation of damaged UNESCO World Heritage Sites, specifically showcased through a case study of Qiwang Hall in Beijing's Summer Palace. This method enables precise documentation of structural degradation, filling critical gaps in historical records by integrating TLS data with archival research. The approach not only provides a detailed baseline for site protection but also offers a scalable model for restoring and understanding the value of heritage sites that have suffered significant deterioration. By bridging technological innovation with traditional conservation practices, this study sets a precedent for future restoration efforts, ensuring more accurate reconstructions and deeper historical insights.

Discussion on the “Digital Recovery” of the Unearthed Texts of the Sutra Cave in the Dunhuang Mogao Grottoes, Lost Overseas for Centuries

Mogao Caves — 2019 — WHE756743C3EE

A novel approach to 'digital recovery' enables the reconstruction and systematic publication of Dunhuang Mogao Grottoes texts, many lost overseas for over a century. By leveraging shared digital platforms and advanced textual research methods, this study proposes a collaborative model that facilitates access and analysis for Tunhuangology scholars and the public. The framework aims to preserve and promote these cultural heritage resources, offering an efficient means for international experts to engage with the materials. This initiative not only advances academic research but also ensures broader dissemination of this precious historical legacy.

Dispersal and Reception in Northern Italy: Comparing Systems Along the Brenner Route

City of Verona — 2019 — WHE6740823A20

Border enforcement along the Brenner route, marking the Italy-Austria border, has transformed transit areas into internal hotspots, significantly impacting migrants' rights and experiences. A comparative analysis of reception systems in Verona, Trento, and Bolzano reveals varying approaches to accommodating transiting migrants, influenced by factors such as geographical proximity and policy restrictions. The study employs qualitative data analysis, including legal reviews of policy documents, interviews, and newspaper content, to assess how local governance structures cater to migrants' needs despite increasing border controls. Findings highlight the emergence of 'spaces of transit' where both public and humanitarian actors are compelled to address migrant challenges, underscoring the complex dynamics of dispersal and reception in northern Italy.

Dispersal and reproductive careers of male mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park — 2019 — WHE606FBC9AAD

Research on male mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda, reveals that at least 25% of dispersing males eventually form new social groups, challenging previous assumptions about their reproductive success. The study, spanning 1993 to 2017, also documents rare cases of dispersal by immature and old males, as well as the only known instance of a fully mature male immigrating into a breeding group. Using genetic tracking, scientists found no significant differences between Bwindi and Virunga populations in terms of dispersal age, proportion of dispersing males, or dominance tenure length, suggesting ecological variability does not lead to life history differences. Male gorillas employ varied strategies—such as solitary dispersal, group fissioning, usurping alpha males, or inheritance—to attain alpha status, contributing to the mixed one-male and multimale social structure observed in both populations.

Disputas en torno al territorio en la subregión de Tierradentro. Un abordaje de larga duración

National Archeological Park of Tierradentro — 2019 — WHE3066B15CFB

A long-term analysis of territorial disputes in the Tierradentro subregion reveals complex social dynamics and power struggles that have shaped the landscape over centuries. The study, conducted by Sebastián Levalle, employs a multi-scalar approach to examine how different groups—including indigenous communities, colonial authorities, and modern states—have contested control over land and resources. By integrating archaeological evidence with historical records, the research highlights the enduring nature of these disputes, which persist despite shifts in political and economic contexts. This work contributes to our understanding of how territorial conflicts evolve and adapt over time, offering insights relevant to both academic discourse and contemporary heritage management.

Dissemination in archaeology: a GIS-based StoryMap for Chan Chan

Chan Chan Archaeological Zone — 2019 — WHE21272C58EF

A GIS-based StoryMap for Chan Chan, Peru, demonstrates the potential of integrating geographic information systems with storytelling to disseminate both tangible and intangible heritage. This innovative approach leverages interoperable data structures to create an accessible, updatable, and user-friendly web tool that preserves the universal value of one of Latin America's largest mud-brick archaeological sites (14 km²). The system consolidates archival research, field surveys, and planning into a single platform, enabling non-expert users to query complex, heterogeneous data. This methodology serves as a scalable model for heritage management and cultural dissemination, offering practical guidelines for researchers and practitioners aiming to share ancient testimonies globally.

Distance-Training for Image-Based 3D Modelling of Archeological Sites in Remote Regions

Tchogha Zanbil — 2019 — WHE9DDEF26DD7

A revised set of guidelines for high-quality image acquisition using Structure-from-Motion (SfM) photogrammetry enables local communities to conduct 3D modeling of archaeological sites in remote regions, such as the Ziggurat Chogha Zanbil in Iran. The study adapts the '3×3 Rules' from 1994 to modern SfM techniques, addressing geometry, imaging, and organizational aspects to ensure accurate data capture with low-cost cameras. This approach overcomes logistical challenges by decentralizing the critical image acquisition phase while maintaining photogrammetric output quality.

Distribution and growth rates of immature hawksbill turtles Eretmochelys imbricata in Fernando de Noronha, Brazil

Brazilian Atlantic Islands: Fernando de Noronha and Atol das Rocas Reserves — 2019 — WHE4324A99AF0

A 31-year mark-recapture study of juvenile hawksbill turtles (Eretmochelys imbricata) in the Fernando de Noronha Archipelago, Brazil, revealed critical insights into their growth rates and demographic parameters. Turtles exhibited site fidelity within the archipelago, with a median minimum residence time of 3.2 years and some individuals remaining for up to 14 years. Growth rates averaged 3.4 cm per year, decreasing monotonically with size, suggesting that turtles require approximately 14-18 years to reach minimum adult breeding size (~74 cm CCL). This long-term study provides essential data for the conservation of this endangered species, highlighting the importance of neritic foraging grounds in their life history.

Distribution of Available Silicon of Volcanic Ash Soils in Jeju Island

Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes — 2019 — WHEA3C866749A

Volcanic ash soils on Jeju Island, particularly Andisols, exhibit significantly higher available silicon (Si) content compared to non-Andisols, with subsoil Si levels up to 10 times greater than those in mainland Korea. This study reveals that weathering of Andisols on Jeju Island contributes substantially to elevated dissolved Si concentrations in groundwater, a process influenced by elevation and soil chemical properties such as oxalate-extractable Al and Fe. The research analyzed 290 topsoil samples using 1 M sodium acetate buffer extraction (pH 4.0) and compared available Si content across typifying pedons of Jeju Island and mainland Korea, highlighting the unique pedogenic processes shaping Si distribution in these volcanic soils.

Distributional effects of transport policies on inequalities in access to opportunities in Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro: Carioca Landscapes between the Mountain and the Sea — 2019 — WHE7319CA9569

Recent transport policies in Rio de Janeiro, aimed at preparing for the 2014 World Cup and the 2016 Olympics, have exacerbated socio-spatial inequalities rather than reduced them. Despite substantial investments in public transport infrastructure, cuts in service levels subsequently offset accessibility benefits, particularly penalizing lower-income groups. The study reveals that even without these cuts, higher-income groups would still have seen greater gains in access to schools and jobs. This challenges Brazil's official discourse on the positive legacy of transport policies. The research also highlights the influence of the modifiable areal unit problem (MAUP) on equity assessments, suggesting that future studies should address this issue for more robust evaluations.

Diverse Traits Contribute to Salinity Tolerance of Wild Tomato Seedlings from the Galapagos Islands

Galápagos Islands — 2019 — WHE6FDA4C3DB6

Wild tomato species endemic to the Galápagos Islands exhibit remarkable salinity tolerance, outperforming commercial tomato lines under high-salt conditions. This resilience, likely due to natural selection in their saline coastal habitats, positions them as a valuable genetic resource for enhancing salt tolerance in cultivated tomatoes. Researchers analyzed over 20 traits related to growth, physiology, and ion content in 67 accessions of Solanum cheesmaniae and Solanum galapagense, alongside two commercial lines (Solanum lycopersicum), using a 10-day hydroponic salt treatment. The study identified specific accessions (LA0317, LA1449, LA1403) with exceptionally high tolerance, suggesting potential for breeding programs. Publicly available data and tools further support the exploration of these traits to improve crop resilience.

Diversidad de aves en sitios con distinto uso de suelo en Nuevo Conhuas, Calakmul, México

Ancient Maya City and Protected Tropical Forests of Calakmul, Campeche — 2019 — WHE7045891057

A study conducted in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Calakmul, Mexico, reveals that land-use changes significantly influence bird communities. The research found that bird diversity was highest in conserved areas like the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve (D1=36.38), while agricultural and cattle sites showed lower diversity (D2=3.88). Seed-dispersing birds and generalist species were more abundant in cattle pastures, highlighting the impact of land-use on ecosystem functions. The study also underscores the importance of secondary forests ('acahuales') as transitional habitats that support species found in mature forests, including those at risk. Conducted between February and June 2017 using mist nets across four sites with distinct land uses, this work provides critical insights for conservation strategies, emphasizing the role of vegetation type in shaping bird communities (Dev=373.1, p=0.001).

Diversity of Amphibians in the Eastern and Southern Parts of the Sinharaja Rain Forest

Sinharaja Forest Reserve — 2019 — WHE678D2BBE79

A comprehensive study of amphibian diversity in the eastern and southern parts of Sinharaja Forest Reserve, Sri Lanka, reveals that 24 species were identified, with a striking 92% (22 species) being endemic to the region. Notably, sub-montane forests exhibited higher diversity, including endangered and critically endangered species, compared to lowland rain forests. The research, employing quantitative deductive methodology with line transects and quadrate samples, highlights significant threats such as biopiracy, illegal forest utilization, gem mining, encroachments, and unethical tourism. These findings underscore the urgent need for conservation efforts by authorities to mitigate human impacts on this biologically unique and vulnerable ecosystem.

Do motivations contribute to local residents’ engagement in pro-environmental behaviors? Resident-destination relationship and pro-environmental climate perspective

Ancient Villages in Southern Anhui – Xidi and Hongcun — 2019 — WHEC88F674416

Motivations significantly influence local residents' engagement in pro-environmental behaviors, both directly and indirectly through their relationship with the destination. A study of 566 residents in Xidi and Hongcun, UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Southern Anhui, found that egoistic and altruistic motivations enhance pro-environmental actions when coupled with strong pro-environmental identification and commitment. Additionally, a supportive pro-environmental climate strengthens these direct effects, acting as a boundary condition. This research clarifies the mechanisms by which motivations drive sustainable behaviors, offering practical insights for tourism management in heritage sites.

Documenting Nea Paphos for Conservation and Management

Paphos — 2019 — WHE62CBA0200D

A comprehensive documentation project of Nea Paphos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its significant mosaic pavements, has been conducted to support conservation and management efforts. The study, led by the Getty Conservation Institute in collaboration with Cypriot authorities and experts, employed advanced digital workflows including field measurements, data processing, GIS integration, and external data synthesis. This rigorous approach not only aids custodians, managers, and conservators in decision-making but also serves as a long-term archival and monitoring record. The project's deliverables, produced using cutting-edge technology and equipment, provide a robust framework for interpreting the site and preserving it for future generations, even in the event of catastrophic or gradual loss.