World Heritage Research: Search

Publications

Showing 17281 – 17300 of 30345 publications

Renewing and Reframing Hiroshima

Hiroshima Peace Memorial (Genbaku Dome) — 2019 — WHE9436D08CA1

A recent analysis reveals how the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum has evolved its narrative on the atomic bombing over three renovations, reflecting shifting historical interpretations. The study examines presentations from 1981, 1995 (for the 50th anniversary), and 2019, highlighting changes in how the event is framed—from immediate devastation to broader themes of peace and memory. This approach provides insight into how museums adapt their messaging in response to historiographical shifts, offering a case study for cultural institutions grappling with complex historical legacies.

Repeated evolution of flightlessness in Dryolimnas rails (Aves: Rallidae) after extinction and recolonization on Aldabra

Aldabra Atoll — 2019 — WHE6D8D21DD00

Fossil evidence from Aldabra Atoll reveals that flightlessness evolved independently twice in the Dryolimnas rail, following extinction and recolonization after a major sea-level inundation event during the Upper Pleistocene. This discovery underscores the remarkable adaptability of Rallidae birds to colonize isolated islands and evolve flightlessness repeatedly. The study, based on temporally separated fossil localities, provides irrefutable proof that a member of this clade likely originated from Madagascar, became extinct due to environmental changes, and recolonized the atoll, repeating the evolution of flightlessness. This unique record in Rallidae highlights the resilience and evolutionary potential of these birds in isolated ecosystems.

Representación geo gráfica del mito del zorro en el cielo

Lines and Geoglyphs of Nasca and Palpa — 2019 — WHE8BA6834BD1

Research reveals that three sets of geoglyphs in the Paracas and Nasca deserts graphically represent scenes from the Andean myth of 'The Fox in the Sky.' The study identifies a discoursive parallelism between these geoglyphs and the myth, with two sets depicting clear narrative sequences while the third disperses the characters. The myth describes the journey of the Fox and Condor to the skies, later joined by the Parrot, resulting in the appearance of edible plants like oca on Earth—species also depicted in Nasca's geoglyphs. These geoglyphic sets were created in successive periods across different styles, reflecting a cultural narrative that persists from Peru's Central Andes to northern Argentina and Chile. The findings bridge mythological storytelling with tangible archaeological evidence, offering insights into ancient Andean cosmology and artistic expression.

Reproduction ecology of the recently invasive snake Hemorrhois hippocrepis on the island of Ibiza

Ibiza, Biodiversity and Culture — 2019 — WHE92434195CC

A recent study on the invasive horseshoe whip snake, Hemorrhois hippocrepis, on Ibiza reveals rapid phenotypic plasticity in reproductive traits, observed within just 14 years of invasion. The research compares native mainland and invasive island populations, finding that invasive females mature at smaller sizes, have extended reproductive periods, but lower reproduction frequency. While clutch size, hatchling body size, and condition remained consistent, the study suggests environmental differences and plasticity may contribute to the snake's invasiveness, threatening Ibiza's endemic lizard, Podarcis pityusensis. The findings highlight the adaptability of invasive species in Mediterranean islands.

Research in the Turkic Stone Statues of Saryarka at the Present Stage

Saryarka – Steppe and Lakes of Northern Kazakhstan — 2019 — WHE1DC7D721DD

Recent research on the Turkic stone statues of Saryarka, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in northern Kazakhstan, reveals significant advancements in understanding their cultural and historical significance. The study highlights the importance of these statues as material evidence of ancient Turkic societies, providing insights into their artistry, symbolism, and social structures. By employing interdisciplinary methods—including archaeological analysis, historical documentation, and comparative studies—the research sheds light on the craftsmanship techniques used in statue production and their possible connections to broader Turkic cultural traditions. This work contributes to a deeper appreciation of Saryarka's intangible heritage while emphasizing the need for further preservation efforts.

Research of medieval cult monuments of Akmola Upper Ishim (based on 2018 exploration material)

Saryarka – Steppe and Lakes of Northern Kazakhstan — 2019 — WHEEA244D553C

A 2018 archaeological survey in the upper Ishim region of Northern Kazakhstan's Saryarka World Heritage Site uncovered previously unknown moats extending from lakes, raising new questions about their purpose and historical significance. These structures, ranging from 50 to 350 meters long, were identified using remote sensing techniques, including GPS mapping, description, and photography. The study also re-examined known medieval cult monuments like the Zhanibek-Shalkar and Batagai mausoleums, revealing new characteristics through advanced methodologies. By analyzing published sources alongside field data, researchers aimed to deepen understanding of this understudied region's ancient and medieval settlement patterns and religious landmarks.

Reservations About Nature Reserves: Local Voices on Conservation in the Ituri

Okapi Wildlife Reserve — 2019 — WHE96F360379E

A study on the Okapi Wildlife Reserve reveals that local communities in the Ituri region hold a deep-seated belief that wildlife will never be depleted under traditional subsistence practices. This perspective contrasts sharply with the conservation efforts led by international organizations such as the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), and the Institut Congolais pour la Conservation de la Nature, which aimed to gazette over 13,000 square kilometers of rainforest in 1992. The research highlights the tension between local perceptions and global conservation strategies, underscoring the need for culturally sensitive approaches to wildlife protection.

Residency and diel movement patterns of the endangered scalloped hammerhead Sphyrna lewini in the Revillagigedo National Park

Archipiélago de Revillagigedo — 2019 — WHEF57EF46658

Scalloped hammerhead sharks (Sphyrna lewini), an endangered species, exhibit strong daytime residency at two sites within San Benedicto Island of the Revillagigedo National Park, Mexico, with movements into pelagic environments at night. This is the first detailed description of their diel and residency patterns, based on acoustic telemetry data from 11 adult sharks monitored over three years using 58,055 detections by autonomous receivers. The study provides a crucial baseline for monitoring and enhancing conservation efforts in this marine reserve, offering insights into the species' behavior that can inform management strategies.

Residents’ Diachronic Perception of the Impacts of Ecological Resettlement in a World Heritage Site

Wulingyuan Scenic and Historic Interest Area — 2019 — WHEDCDED68083

A significant negative perception of ecological resettlement policies emerged among residents in the Wulingyuan Scenic and Historic Interest Area despite positive views on economic, socio-cultural, resource-environmental, and psychological impacts. This finding, derived from surveys conducted in 2010 and 2016, highlights the complex interplay between policy implementation and local sentiment. Demographic factors such as gender, age, education level, income, and tourism engagement significantly influenced residents' perceptions over time, with regression analysis identifying economic policy and ecological resettlement impacts as primary drivers of overall sentiment. The study employed independent sample t-tests, ANOVA, and stepwise regression to quantify these differences, offering critical insights for sustainable development in World Heritage Sites.

Residents’ Opinions and Perceptions of Tourism Development in the Historic City of Toledo, Spain

Historic City of Toledo — 2019 — WHE19926F0150

Residents of Toledo, Spain, largely view tourism development positively, particularly for its economic benefits and job creation potential. However, they express concerns about the historic center being overcommercialized into a 'museum' for tourists. A quantitative survey of 442 residents revealed that those living in residential areas had more positive perceptions than those in the historic center itself. The study used descriptive statistics, factor analysis, and non-parametric tests to analyze data, providing insights that could help tourism managers mitigate negative impacts and gain community support.

Residents’ Perceptions and Satisfaction toward Tourism Development: A Case Study of Petra Region, Jordan

Petra — 2019 — WHE7242268083

Local residents' perceptions of tourism's economic benefits are the most significant factor influencing their satisfaction with tourism management in Petra, Jordan. A study involving 467 residents from six communities revealed that sociodemographics and community attachment shape these perceptions, with gender and proximity to tourist sites playing key roles. Contrary to expectations, negative impacts did not significantly affect satisfaction, highlighting the primacy of economic benefits in shaping resident attitudes. The research used regression analysis to explore these relationships, offering insights for future studies and tourism planning in the region.

Residents’ perceptions of a World Heritage property: a multivariate analysis

Alto Douro Wine Region — 2019 — WHE3AB124B3F1

A UNESCO World Heritage Site (WHS) designation significantly boosts economic perceptions among residents of the Alto Douro Wine Region, particularly in tourism and commerce sectors. However, nearly half of viticulture owners report negative impacts on economic revenue, challenging the assumption that WHS status universally benefits local economies. This study employs multivariate analysis—including categorical principal components, cluster analysis, and multinomial logit modeling—to segment resident perceptions, revealing distinct group interests such as wine producers, tourism workers, and commercial stakeholders. The findings contribute to the broader debate on the perceived effects of WHS listings, offering nuanced insights that contrast with previous research by focusing on community-specific perspectives.

Response Analysis of Multi-Layered Volcanic Aquifers in Jeju Island to the 2011 M9.0 Tohoku-Oki Earthquake

Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes — 2019 — WHE9BFC078859

The 2011 M9.0 Tohoku-Oki earthquake triggered distinct responses in Jeju Island's multi-layered volcanic aquifers, revealing complex interactions between freshwater and saltwater dynamics. Monitoring wells detected changes in groundwater level, temperature, and electrical conductivity, indicating freshwater outflow and saltwater inflow—a phenomenon linked to seismic activity affecting coastal aquifers. The study highlights the superiority of multi-depth monitoring systems over single systems for capturing nuanced behaviors in layered aquifers, which are also sensitive to anthropogenic impacts. These findings underscore the importance of advanced monitoring techniques in volcanic, karstic, or coastal regions to better understand and mitigate earthquake-induced or human-caused disruptions.

Response of the Native Springtail Parisotoma insularis to Diesel Fuel–Contaminated Soils Under Field-Realistic Exposure Conditions at Subantarctic Macquarie Island

Macquarie Island — 2019 — WHE4DA817F841

A critical effect concentration (CEC) of 48 mg/kg for diesel fuel was established for the native springtail species Parisotoma insularis, demonstrating its sensitivity to fuel contamination regardless of soil organic content. This is the first study to derive such data for a subantarctic springtail, providing essential insights for remediation efforts and soil quality guideline values on Macquarie Island and beyond. The research involved collecting intact soil cores along an organic carbon gradient, spiking them with diesel to mimic field conditions, and assessing springtail response. These findings are pivotal for risk assessment and environmental management in subantarctic regions affected by fuel spills.

Responsible Tourism at a Rural Cultural Landscape: Opportunity or Threat?

Cultural Landscape of the Serra de Tramuntana — 2019 — WHE2FDEABD4D2

The Serra de Tramuntana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its agricultural stone structures and water systems, faces economic challenges due to declining rural activities and over-reliance on mass tourism. While tourism drives the island's economy, its benefits largely bypass local landowners, creating disparities. The study proposes that fostering proximity and slow food concepts, combined with traditional agricultural practices, can enhance economic viability for small farms while preserving the cultural landscape's authenticity. It highlights the need for community-driven decision-making and sustainable tourism models to balance economic growth with heritage conservation. Insights from a family-owned olive oil production business demonstrate how integrating agriculture with tourism can revitalize local economies without compromising tradition.

Restauración y refuncionalización del Hospital San Juan de Dios : Centro habitacional para la tercera edad en Santa Cruz de Mompós

Historic Centre of Santa Cruz de Mompox — 2019 — WHEB1E6C563B5

A proposed restoration and repurposing of the historic Hospital San Juan de Dios in Santa Cruz de Mompox aims to transform it into a residential center for the elderly while preserving its architectural heritage. The study finds that the current hospital facilities do not meet modern healthcare standards, necessitating relocation of medical services to a more suitable location. Instead, the historic building will be adapted to house elderly residents, addressing overcrowding and inadequate conditions at existing local shelters like 'La casa del Recuerdo.' The design prioritizes accessibility, spatial organization, and complementary services (e.g., therapies) tailored to three user groups based on mobility and cognitive needs. By integrating historical preservation with functional reimagining, the project seeks to maintain the site's cultural significance while addressing urgent social housing needs.

Restoration of Tangible and Intangible Artefacts in the Tunisian Landscape: ‘Boutique Hotels’ and the Entrepreneurial Project of Dar Ben-Gacem

Medina of Tunis — 2019 — WHEF954E1AE15

A unique restoration project of the 17th-century Dar Ben-Gacem in the Medina of Tunis demonstrates how boutique hotels can preserve architectural heritage while fostering local economic and cultural revitalization. This study highlights the successful integration of tangible and intangible heritage elements, such as historical architecture and traditional craftsmanship, into a modern entrepreneurial model that supports small businesses and artisans. The project's dual focus on architectural authenticity and socio-cultural entrepreneurship offers a blueprint for balancing tourism development with heritage conservation in UNESCO World Heritage Sites facing globalization pressures.

Rethinking Paleolithic Visual Culture throughout immersive technology: The site "Cueva de las Manos" as a virtual "Denkraum" (Patagonia, Argentina)

Cueva de las Manos, Río Pinturas — 2019 — WHE2D16487BD4

A groundbreaking approach to understanding Paleolithic visual culture at Cueva de las Manos, Argentina, reveals that aesthetic experience transcends modern artistic definitions. By leveraging immersive technology—such as virtual reality (VR) and 360° video—the study redefines the Cave not merely as a site of artistic expression but as a 'Denkraum' (thinking space), where spatial and cinematic sensoriality evokes open-ended questions rather than fixed meanings. This methodology challenges traditional interpretations, emphasizing the bodily experience of visuality over symbolic decoding. The findings suggest that Paleolithic art was inherently experiential, engaging viewers in dynamic, multisensory interactions that resist straightforward analysis.

Retorno de paisajes culturales mineros: transformación de las Minas de Zollverein en Essen, Ruhr

Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex in Essen — 2019 — WHE6DC7DABA71

A successful model for sustainable urban regeneration is demonstrated by the transformation of Essen's Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex from a declining industrial site to a vibrant cultural and environmental landmark. The study highlights how parallel efforts—one led by the city and the other by the factory—shifted the focus from heavy industry to culture, while prioritizing environmental restoration. This dual approach culminated in significant milestones such as recognition as UNESCO World Heritage, European Cultural Capital, and European Green Capital, proving the effectiveness of strategic interventions in reviving post-industrial landscapes.

Reuse and energy retrofit of the former Olivetti company canteen in Ivrea: economic enhancement scenarios and methodologies

Ivrea, industrial city of the 20th century — 2019 — WHEEFE5D4EFF1

A study identifies the most energy-efficient and economically viable scenario for retrofitting the former Olivetti company canteen, a UNESCO-listed modernist architectural gem in Ivrea. The research combines Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCC) and Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) to assess eight technological solutions for energy retrofit while preserving the building's historic integrity. Findings reveal that integrating advanced envelope technologies with economic feasibility analyses can significantly reduce primary energy consumption, enhancing comfort without compromising heritage protection. This approach offers a replicable model for balancing conservation, innovation, and sustainability in modernist industrial sites.