World Heritage Research: Search

Publications

Showing 1641 – 1660 of 15962 publications

Assessment of the Archaeological Potential of Prehistoric Settlement Areas along the Lake Shores and Wetlands of Carinthia, Southern Austria

Prehistoric Pile Dwellings around the Alps — 2025 — WHEEF16CA55E2

A pilot project in Carinthia, southern Austria, has uncovered new evidence of prehistoric settlement dynamics along lake shores and wetlands, bridging gaps in the region's archaeological record. The study, conducted between 2021 and 2024, combined archival research, underwater surveys, sediment coring, and laboratory analyses to identify and document submerged archaeological structures dating from the 5th to 3rd millennia BC. Notably, the discovery of a pile-dwelling site on Kapuzinerinsel in Lake Wörthersee highlights the potential for targeted assessments to reveal previously unknown heritage. The research provides new radiocarbon dates and insights into human-environment interactions during the Neolithic and Copper Age, reinforcing Carinthia's significance as an inner-Alpine corridor linking Europe's archaeological landscapes. This interdisciplinary approach sets a foundation for future heritage protection and regional studies.

Assessment of the Impact of Community-Based Conservation Interventions to Biodiversity Conservation Around Protected Areas: Case of Nyungwe National Park

Nyungwe National Park — 2025 — WHEA334EDEBFE

Community-based conservation interventions significantly enhance biodiversity protection around Nyungwe National Park (NNP), Rwanda, by fostering positive behavioral changes and reducing illegal activities. A strong correlation coefficient of 0.942 indicates that these interventions effectively shape local attitudes toward conservation. Between 2021 and 2023, illegal activities spiked due to increased efforts to monitor them, but a marked decline occurred in 2024—likely attributed to community engagement. Notably, 56.3% of snares (3,848) were uprooted by community eco-rangers during joint patrols with park rangers. The study recommends scaling up community involvement, income-generating projects, and environmental education to sustain these gains. Conducted through questionnaires and Earth Ranger data analysis, the research highlights the critical role of local communities in combating biodiversity threats.

Assessment of the Institutional Arrangements for the Payments for Environmental Services (PES) Implementation for Watershed Conservation: The Case of Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary (MHRWS)

Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary — 2025 — WHE569E452DD1

A critical gap in the institutionalization of Payments for Environmental Services (PES) hinders watershed conservation efforts at Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary (MHRWS), despite supportive national policies and stakeholder engagement. The study, which analyzed key informant interviews and secondary data, revealed that while enabling factors such as clear property rights for the Mandaya indigenous community and existing environmental laws exist, constraints like limited institutional capacity, inadequate water management data, and weak representation of local stakeholders in governance bodies pose significant challenges. The absence of a national PES framework further disrupts conservation initiatives due to government transitions. To overcome these barriers, the research recommends prioritizing capacity building, stakeholder engagement, sustainable funding, and aligning local actions with national policies. Active participation by MHRWS lead bodies in the ongoing Payment for Water Ecosystem Service (P-WES) institutionalization process could catalyze PES implementation, enhancing watershed management and ensuring a sustainable water supply.

Assessment of the main sustainable tourism indicators in the Protected Areas of the Gjirokastra region

Historic Centres of Berat and Gjirokastra — 2025 — WHE4F4043677C

A study assessing sustainable tourism indicators in Gjirokastra, Albania, reveals heightened community awareness of the region's natural and cultural heritage but highlights significant gaps in planning and stakeholder involvement. The research, involving surveys with 112 local residents and 168 visitors, analyzed socio-economic, environmental, infrastructural, and institutional factors to evaluate tourism sustainability. While visitors positively rated socio-economic and environmental conditions, the findings underscore the urgent need for collaborative efforts among stakeholders to prioritize sustainable development without compromising biodiversity conservation or local quality of life.

Assessment of the Planimetric and Vertical Accuracy of UAS-LiDAR DSM in Archaeological Site

Archaeological Site of Aigai (modern name Vergina) — 2025 — WHEE8E453DB5D

A study at the Sanctuary of Eukleia in Aigai (Vergina, Greece) demonstrates that UAS-LiDAR technology can achieve high planimetric and vertical accuracy in archaeological site mapping, with LiDAR-derived DSMs showing a planimetric accuracy of 1.4 cm in X and 0.9 cm in Y, and a vertical accuracy of 7.5 cm. While RGB-PPK products outperformed LiDAR in vertical precision (2.4 cm), UAS-LiDAR proved superior for mapping under dense vegetation, such as streambanks, due to its ability to penetrate canopies. The research involved acquiring RGB, multispectral images, and LiDAR data using a Hesai XT32M2X system mounted on a WingtraOne GEN II UAS, with accuracy assessed through field-measured checkpoints and RTK-GNSS calibration.

Assessment of the spatial distribution of Chondria tumulosa, a nuisance macroalga at Manawai in Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument using high‐resolution satellite imagery

Papahānaumokuākea — 2025 — WHE7870A791DB

A red macroalgal species, Chondria tumulosa, has been identified as a nuisance in Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument (PMNM), particularly at Manawai (Pearl and Hermes Atoll), where it overgrows native coral and algal communities. This study employed high-resolution satellite imagery from WorldView-2 and -3 to map its spatial distribution across the forereef and backreef over a 12-year period (2010–2021). By analyzing dark patches in time-series animations—first observed in 2015—and validating them against field survey data, researchers achieved an average accuracy of 78% in classifying C. tumulosa using machine learning. The findings highlight the potential of remote sensing for monitoring invasive species in remote marine environments, offering a tool for long-term management and conservation efforts.

Assessment of the Variation in Faunistic Parameters of Mosquitoes (Culicidae: Diptera) Across Different Forest Gradients in the Tijuca National Park Area, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Rio de Janeiro: Carioca Landscapes between the Mountain and the Sea — 2025 — WHE4322B361BD

Mosquito species richness, diversity, and evenness peak at the forest edge of Tijuca National Park, suggesting that edge effects significantly influence mosquito distribution in Atlantic Forest remnants. This finding emerges from a study assessing 27 mosquito species across three environmental gradients—forest edge, 35 m inland, and 500 m inland—using CO₂-baited CDC light traps, Shannon traps, and human-protected attraction methods over 19 months. Statistical analysis revealed higher abundance and diversity at the forest edge compared to deeper interior points, challenging assumptions about uniform distribution in conserved areas. The study highlights the need for expanded sampling to fully capture ecological patterns, underscoring the park's role as a biodiversity hotspot and its importance for both conservation and public health monitoring.

Assessment of UNESCO Cultural Heritage Sites Vulnerability through Multicriteria Analysis

Villages with Fortified Churches in Transylvania — 2025 — WHE58FAD6B3F8

A multicriteria analysis reveals that while Romania's UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Sites, including the Villages with Fortified Churches in Transylvania, are highly exposed to natural and human-induced hazards like earthquakes, landslides, and floods, their vulnerability varies significantly. Some sites exhibit lower vulnerability despite susceptibility, highlighting the importance of intrinsic factors such as structure age, height, construction materials, and infrastructure effectiveness in mitigating risks. The study integrates geophysical data and GIS mapping to assess multi-hazard susceptibility across nine heritage categories, providing actionable insights for site managers and authorities to enhance monitoring, maintenance, and budget allocation for protection efforts.

Assessment of Urban Quiet Areas in the Context of Nature-Based Solutions: Istanbul Historical Peninsula Example

Historic Areas of Istanbul — 2025 — WHECFC5127DF6

Urban quiet areas, traditionally defined by noise thresholds, benefit significantly from natural elements such as soundscape, vegetation, and water bodies. This study reveals that integrating nature-based solutions (NBS) into urban planning can enhance the perception of quietness in Istanbul's Historic Peninsula, offering a model for acoustic-quality green infrastructure. Researchers employed noise mapping, in situ sound recordings, and surveys to analyze relationships between sound environments and physical factors influencing quietness. Findings underscore the potential of NBS strategies to improve urban greening by prioritizing auditory perception in space planning.

Atlas Niematerialnego Dziedzictwa Krakowa

Historic Centre of Kraków — 2025 — WHE71B246662A

A pioneering research programme, 'An Atlas of Kraków’s Intangible Heritage,' aims to comprehensively document and safeguard the intangible cultural heritage of Kraków, Poland. The project identifies and studies phenomena such as legends, folk tales, rites, customs, and musical folklore that align with UNESCO's 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage. Through an interdisciplinary approach involving historians, ethnologists, and cultural anthropologists, the programme employs a robust research apparatus, including field observations, in-depth interviews (IDI), focus group interviews (FGI), and surveys. The initial phase focuses on former villages and jurydyki west of Kraków’s Old Town, incorporated in the 19th and 20th centuries. The project seeks to not only inventory these cultural phenomena but also interpret, present, and popularize them among the public, ensuring their preservation for future generations.

Atopsyche (Dolochorema) huascarani Rázuri-Gonzales & Holzenthal, 2025, sp. nov.

Huascarán National Park — 2025 — WHEF5CF305E88

Scientists have discovered and described a new species of caddisfly, Atopsyche (Dolochorema) huascarani, from Huascarán National Park in Peru. This species is distinguished by its unique genital morphology, particularly the absence of ventrolateral branches in the phallic apparatus, setting it apart from related species like A. irregularis and A. bispinosa. The discovery was made through detailed morphological analysis of type specimens collected using light traps at Laguna Llaca, highlighting the rich biodiversity of the region. The study contributes to our understanding of caddisfly taxonomy and the importance of high-altitude ecosystems in Peru.

Auditory Experience Identification Through Soundscape Approach in Borobudur Temple

Borobudur Temple Compounds — 2025 — WHEEBE4ACD26A

Research at Borobudur Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Central Java, reveals that the auditory environment significantly shapes visitor experiences. The study identifies key soundscape elements and their perceptual impact on visitors, using field measurements of sound intensity and adapted questionnaires based on ISO/TS 12913-2 standards. Findings highlight how acoustic attributes influence cultural perception, offering a foundation for soundscape management strategies to enhance visitor engagement while preserving the site's auditory heritage.

Augustianis

Frontiers of the Roman Empire – The Danube Limes (Western Segment) — 2025 — WHEE829DF94CE

Augustianis, located at Traismauer along the Danube Limes, stands as one of the most significant Roman sites within the UNESCO World Heritage site 'Frontiers of the Roman Empire – The Danube Limes (Western Segment).' This comprehensive synthesis reveals the town's Roman history from its establishment in the 1st century AD to its transition into the Early Middle Ages. The study highlights the civilian settlement, cemeteries, and recent archaeological findings, including notable structures like the Roman Gate and Hunger Tower. By integrating the latest scientific discoveries with accessible presentation, the publication offers a detailed account of Augustianis' past, serving as both an academic resource and a companion to the permanent exhibition 'Traismaurer Schätze' at Traismauer Castle.

Australian Rainforests—A Living Museum of Natural Product Chemical Diversity

Gondwana Rainforests of Australia — 2025 — WHE06E2C9B953

Australian rainforests, among the oldest continuously forested ecosystems on Earth, are a 'living museum' of natural product chemical diversity. Despite covering only 0.024% of global land area, these rainforests host ~3,800 plant species from 187 families and 942 genera, with ancient biosynthetic lineages contributing to their remarkable chemical richness. While only 10% of species have been studied, they have yielded nearly 2,400 unique constituents, including highly bioactive compounds. This research highlights the significance of Australian rainforests in advancing our understanding of worldwide seed plant chemical diversity and introduces advanced NMR spectroscopic methods for identifying complex mixtures. The findings underscore the potential of these ancient ecosystems as reservoirs of high chemical diversity.

Authenticity and place attachment as dual pathways for sustainable tourism in the historic Quanzhou West Street, China

Quanzhou: Emporium of the World in Song-Yuan China — 2025 — WHE88346C3915

Research on Quanzhou West Street, a UNESCO-listed heritage site, reveals that both tangible and experiential authenticity significantly enhance visitors' emotional connection to the place, reinforcing sustainable tourism. The study found that object-related authenticity (physical heritage features) and existential authenticity (cultural engagement) positively influence place identity and dependence, with place identity acting as a mediator between authenticity and functional reliance on the site. This dual pathway suggests that preserving historic fabric while fostering authentic cultural experiences is crucial for long-term sustainability. The findings underscore the need for integrated conservation efforts, visitor management to prevent over-commercialization, and community involvement in governance. The research provides actionable insights for managing historic urban landscapes sustainably.

Automated Restoration of Portrait Reliefs in the Binyang Central Cave of the Longmen Grottoes

Longmen Grottoes — 2025 — WHE1F77614CC3

A novel Gaussian process model-based method achieves high precision and robustness in restoring damaged facial features of the Longmen Grottoes' Imperial Couple's worship reliefs, addressing a critical challenge in cultural heritage preservation. By leveraging surviving samples to learn prior shape knowledge, this approach uses historical photographs and fragments as input data to predict missing portions with experimental validation confirming its accuracy under complex imaging conditions.

Autumn migration of passerine (Passeriformes) on the putorana plateau

Putorana Plateau — 2025 — WHEEFFB7EA610

Autumn migration of passerine birds on the Putorana Plateau follows a distinct pattern characterized by four well-defined waves, with peak activity coinciding with temperature drops. The study, conducted across eight survey points, revealed that these birds migrate along narrow strips near large rivers or lakes, primarily in southern, southwestern, and western directions. Population density varies significantly, peaking at 608 individuals per km² during the most intense migration periods, with the highest densities observed in the south of the plateau. The Arctic Warbler, Common Redpoll, and Little Bunting dominate numerically, while species within the same genus or family typically migrate on different days. This research sheds light on the eco-geographical dynamics of passerine migration, highlighting the impact of environmental factors such as temperature on migration patterns.

Avian Ecology And Conservation Challenges In Keoladeo Bird Sanctuary, Bharatpur, Rajasthan, India

Keoladeo National Park — 2025 — WHEC426151E88

A recent study conducted at Keoladeo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Rajasthan, India, reveals significant threats to its rich avian biodiversity. The research identified 73 bird species, including eight globally threatened or near-threatened ones, with Ciconiidae being the most dominant family. Notably, a decline in migratory bird populations was observed, and Eurasian spoonbills were found nesting outside park boundaries, suggesting habitat degradation. The study highlights urgent conservation challenges such as habitat loss, fragmentation, water scarcity, and human interference, emphasizing the need for sustainable habitat management and regular ecological monitoring to preserve this critical biodiversity hotspot.

Avian Influenza Virus Surveillance Across New Zealand and Its Subantarctic Islands Detects H1N9 in Migratory Shorebirds, but Not 2.3.4.4b HPAI H5N1

New Zealand Sub-Antarctic Islands — 2025 — WHEBE4CC71BDC

A comprehensive avian influenza virus surveillance study across New Zealand and its subantarctic islands detected no presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1, a significant finding given the potential catastrophic impact on local wildlife. The study analyzed 700 wild aquatic birds from 33 species using metatranscriptomic techniques, focusing on the annual 2023-2024 migration period. While no H5N1 was found, a single detection of H1N9 in red knots (Calidris canutus) was noted. This research establishes a critical baseline for expanding avian influenza monitoring in New Zealand, providing valuable data to assess the risk and prepare for future outbreaks.

Avifauna asociada a dos sistemas de producción de café en Tierradentro, San Andrés de Pisimbalá, Cauca, Colombia

National Archeological Park of Tierradentro — 2025 — WHE2CE66905E7

Shaded coffee plantations exhibit significantly higher bird diversity compared to more intensively managed systems, likely due to greater vegetational heterogeneity. This study, conducted in the UNESCO-listed National Archeological Park of Tierradentro (Colombia), identified 80 bird species across four coffee farms, with Thraupidae, Tyrannidae, and Trochilidae being the most prevalent. The findings underscore the ecological benefits of less intensive, structurally diverse coffee production for avian biodiversity, providing critical baseline data to support sustainable ecotourism in this culturally and ecologically significant region.