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The landscape management in the territory of the Vineyard Landscapes of Piedmont

Vineyard Landscape of Piedmont: Langhe-Roero and Monferrato — 2019 — WHE472713C980

The Vineyard Landscape of Piedmont, recognized as the 50th Italian UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014, stands out for its ecological and economic significance. This study highlights how landscape richness in Mediterranean regions enhances well-being and supports sustainable development, yet rapid transformations threaten these values. Focusing on Langhe-Roero and Monferrato, the research examines landscape management strategies that balance aesthetic appeal, ecological integrity, and economic growth. By analyzing this emblematic case, the study underscores the importance of preserving landscapes to maintain competitiveness and employment while ensuring long-term sustainability.

The late ancient synagogues of southern Palestine

Ancient Jericho/Tell es-Sultan — 2019 — WHEA5F23DF89F

A critical analysis of ten late ancient synagogues from southern Palestine reveals that, contrary to previous assumptions, none can be conclusively dated before the mid-4th century. These synagogues, located across regions such as Jericho and the Hebron Hills, are primarily products of the Byzantine period (6th or 7th centuries). While they do not exhibit distinct unifying features compared to those in Lower Galilee, some show evidence of Jewish-Christian inter-religious contact in art, architecture, and material culture. The study underscores the need for further inquiry into Jewish-Christian relations in late antique Palestinian Judaism.

The Leaning Puy de Dôme (Auvergne, France) tilted by shallow intrusions

Chaîne des Puys - Limagne fault tectonic arena — 2019 — WHE861FE9DBC1

The iconic Puy de Dôme, a monogenetic lava dome in the Chaîne des Puys (France), was found to have been tilted by approximately 17° to the southwest due to shallow intrusions. This study reveals that the dome's asymmetry, with one side steeper than the other, resulted from further surface-bulging inflation of the Petit Puy de Dôme intrusion after its initial formation. Using mapping and paleomagnetism, researchers determined that this tilting process occurred over several hundred years, involving landslides and a small phreatomagmatic eruption. The findings extend the hazard period for such volcanic activity and suggest similar patterns in other monogenetic and polygenetic systems.

The Liangzhu City

Archaeological Ruins of Liangzhu City — 2019 — WHE4567624E5E

Liangzhu City, one of the largest urban centers in ancient China and globally, stands out for its impressive scale, meticulous planning, and well-defined layout. Initially thought to be a branch of the Longshan Culture, this rectangular city with rounded corners was situated along a north-south axis near Hangzhou. A notable discovery includes the Liangzhu altar on Yaoshan, a nearby mountain, which adds to the site's significance. The study highlights the advanced urban planning and construction techniques of the Liangzhu Culture, including the use of stone bases and clay for structures like the Tangshan levee and city wall.

The local perception of the memory of communism in a dictator’s hometown; the case of Gjirokastra

Historic Centres of Berat and Gjirokastra — 2019 — WHE1910EEC66E

Local perceptions of communist memory in Gjirokastra, Albania, diverge significantly from official narratives and heritage professionals' views. Residents identify distinct 'material remains' of communism that contrast with national memory regimes, particularly in the dictator's hometown. The study reveals intergenerational differences in how past experiences shape current political realities and European integration aspirations, highlighting a complex interplay between personal history and state-driven representations.

The Location where Narmer probably buried

Archaeological Ruins of Liangzhu City — 2019 — WHE4EA7833306

A groundbreaking analysis suggests that the Archaeological Ruins of Liangzhu City, particularly its Fanshan Cemetery and Yaoshan Hill, may have been a burial site for King Narmer of ancient Egypt. The study draws parallels between the DNA haplogroups found in the region and those in Egypt, as well as similarities in architectural structures like Mojiaoshan Terrace resembling ziggurats. Additionally, it proposes that the Liangzhu culture area was once an Egyptian colony based on shared burial practices, divine emblems, and symbolic artifacts. The research also hypothesizes that Narmer's tomb in Umm el-Qa'ab may have been a cenotaph, with Fanshan Cemetery serving as his initial intended resting place before being relocated to Mount Kuaiji.

The Macquarie Island (LoFlo2G) high-precision continuous atmospheric carbon dioxide record

Macquarie Island — 2019 — WHEAF00B8CE17

A high-precision, continuous atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO₂) record from Macquarie Island (54°37′S, 158°52′E), spanning 2005–2016, reveals critical insights into the Southern Ocean's role as a global CO₂ sink. The study leveraged ultra-high-precision LoFlo2 measurements, achieving uncertainty estimates of 0.01–0.05 µmol mol⁻¹, to distinguish oceanic and atmospheric CO₂ fluxes in this remote region. By filtering local and hemispheric CO₂ sources using within-minute standard deviation metrics and model-simulated radon concentrations, the team produced a noise-free seasonal variation record, surpassing the accuracy of traditional flask measurements. This breakthrough enhances our understanding of the Southern Ocean's spatial and temporal CO₂ dynamics, particularly when integrated with data from other Southern Hemispheric sites.

The marae of Taputapuātea (Ra’iatea, Society Islands) in 2016: nature, age and origin of coral erected stones

Taputapuātea — 2019 — WHEAEF10908E7

Research on the Taputapuātea marae in Ra'iatea, Society Islands, reveals that its erected stones are fossilized microatolls—corals (Porites) that thrived during a Holocene sea level 0.80 meters higher than today, dating back 3 to 5 millennia. These findings challenge prior descriptions of the stones as mere 'limestone slabs,' highlighting their biological origin and ancient context. U/Th dating of 38 samples, including microatolls and coral fill blocks, also confirms that the marae's construction occurred between the 17th and 18th centuries. The study suggests that Polynesians likely collected these fossilized remains from the site, leaving others still buried underground.

The Maravijaya of Buddha and the Image of Pārśvanātha. Paralellism of Buddhist and Jain Iconography of Ancient India

Buddhist Monuments at Sanchi — 2019 — WHE8A69A0C3D0

A striking parallelism emerges between Buddhist and Jain iconography in ancient India, particularly in the depiction of ascetic figures battling demonic forces. The study reveals that both traditions—Buddha's Maravijaya (Temptation by Mara) and Pārśvanātha's confrontation with Meghmal—employ similar compositional schemes to symbolize the struggle against passions. Notably, musicians playing instruments appear in these scenes, adding a unique layer to their symbolic significance. This convergence suggests that artistic solutions were shared across religions during the formative period of religious iconography, as seen in temple complexes like Ellora and Udaigiri-Khandagiri. The research highlights how such motifs transcended religious boundaries, influencing both visual art and architecture.

The Materiality of Marriage in the Artisan Community of Renaissance Verona

City of Verona — 2019 — WHE3260EA19E6

Artisans and their families in sixteenth-century Verona played an active role in the burgeoning market for consumer goods, challenging the notion that only the wealthy influenced such markets. Through an analysis of 100 dotal inventories—previously underused sources—the study reveals that artisans owned vast numbers of commodities that were practical, luxurious, and devotional, enhancing both comfort and splendor in households. This research demonstrates how material culture can shed light on the non-noble classes during the Renaissance, contributing to a broader understanding of consumer behavior beyond elite circles.

The meanings of Auschwitz in Poland, 1945 to the present

Auschwitz Birkenau German Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp (1940-1945) — 2019 — WHE3445A68DF9

Auschwitz-Birkenau, the former Nazi concentration and extermination camp, holds multiple symbolic meanings in Poland, evolving significantly since 1945. While it is widely recognized as a symbol of the Holocaust, it is not the definitive symbol thereof. This study traces its shifting representations—Polish, international, universalist, and Jewish—across historical periods, analyzing how these meanings have been constructed and contested. By examining various forms of representation, the research reveals that Auschwitz's significance has been dynamically reinterpreted in Polish memory and discourse, reflecting broader debates about history, identity, and remembrance.

The Mesozoic Closure of the Paleo-Tethys Ocean: Constraints from Zircon U–Pb Ages, Hf and Nd Isotopes of The Granitic Plutons in the Hoh-Xil-Songpan-Ganzi

Qinghai Hoh Xil — 2019 — WHE380CC61250

Research on the Hoh-Xil-Songpan-Ganzi (HXSG) complex reveals critical insights into the Mesozoic closure of the Paleo-Tethys Ocean, a pivotal event shaping the eastern Tibet Plateau. The study identifies two distinct tectonic-magmatic phases: syn-collision magmatism (243–227 Ma) and post-collision magmatism (219–185 Ma), linked to the convergence of the North China, Yangtze, and Qiangtang blocks. Using zircon U-Pb dating, Hf-Nd isotopic analysis, and geological data, the research demonstrates that the subduction of oceanic lithosphere led to lithospheric thickening and delamination, followed by asthenospheric upwelling and crustal melting. This transition from compression to extension is evidenced by diverse granitic plutons, including high Ba-Sr granite and adakite granitoids, sourced from varying depths—from the mantle to the upper-middle crust. The findings provide a robust framework for understanding the tectonic evolution of the HXSG complex during the Early Mesozoic.

The Monasteries of Athos and Chalkidiki (8th-11th Centuries): A Pioneering Front?

Mount Athos — 2019 — WHEE5827A61CF

Monastic settlements on Mount Athos, Chalkidiki, emerged as a significant response to overcrowding and political shifts following the re-establishment of the Cult of Images in 843. Between the 9th and 11th centuries, monks sought solitude from the densely populated Bithynian Olympus (modern-day Uludağ, Turkey), leading to their migration and establishment on Mount Athos. The study reveals that this period was marked by intense conflicts over land use, particularly grazing lands, between monasteries—including prominent imperial institutions like Xeropotamou, Lavra, and Iviron—and local village communities. Despite the economic growth of the 9th century, which enriched central authorities through tax revenues from abandoned 'klasma' lands, regional officials often sided with villages in these disputes, highlighting a complex interplay between monastic ambitions, peasant resistance, and political authority.

The Musaeum: Strada’s Circle

Historical Complex of Split with the Palace of Diocletian — 2019 — WHE3DE82048C6

A key insight from this study is the identification of Jacopo Strada's significant role as an architect and cultural patron at the imperial court during the reigns of Emperor Ferdinand I and Maximilian II. The research examines Strada's contributions to major projects, including the Hofspital, the Tomb of Maximilian I in Innsbruck, and the Munich Antiquarium, highlighting his architectural competence and influence on imperial architecture. It also explores the interplay between classical Roman models, such as the fortified palace of Diocletian at Split, and contemporary architectural practices. The study employs a detailed analysis of Strada's drawings, projects, and personal involvement, alongside historical documentation, to elucidate his impact on cultural patronage and architectural innovation during this period.

The mythical monster of the lake: the conservation of the axolotl in Xochimilco

Historic Centre of Mexico City and Xochimilco — 2019 — WHE284264BF77

Xochimilco's axolotl, once mythologized as a lake monster, stands on the brink of extinction due to habitat loss and pollution. This study reveals that only 1% of its historic range remains, with fewer than 200 individuals surviving in isolated canals. Researchers employed genetic analysis and field surveys to assess population viability, identifying critical threats including urbanization and water contamination. The findings underscore the urgent need for targeted conservation strategies, such as habitat restoration and pollution control, to prevent the axolotl's disappearance from one of Mexico's most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The Obelisk Temple in Byblos and its predecessors

Byblos — 2019 — WHE0F234B9E6E

A significant archaeological study reveals the evolution and significance of the Obelisk Temple in Byblos, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. The research highlights the temple's role as a cultural and religious center, tracing its architectural and iconographic development alongside its predecessors. Through meticulous analysis of ceramic artifacts, inscriptions, and material culture, the study reconstructs the temple's historical layers, providing insights into the religious practices and societal structures of ancient Phoenicia. This comprehensive approach combines archeological excavation data with iconographic studies to offer a nuanced understanding of Byblos' cultural heritage. The findings underscore the temple's importance in the broader context of Near Eastern civilizations, contributing valuable evidence to the study of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The Old Summer Palace and the Rhetoric of National Treasures

Summer Palace, an Imperial Garden in Beijing — 2019 — WHE10D373B573

A critical analysis of the Old Summer Palace reveals how its designation as a national treasure is constructed through rhetorical strategies, shaping its cultural and legal significance. The study examines how narratives surrounding the site's historical value influence its preservation and public perception, highlighting tensions between heritage conservation and political discourse. Gillman employs discourse analysis to dissect official documents, legal texts, and media representations, uncovering the ideological underpinnings of its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This approach underscores the interplay between cultural memory, national identity, and the instrumentalization of heritage for political ends.

The Olive Tree and the Palestinian Struggle Against Settler-Colonialism

Old City of Jerusalem and its Walls — 2019 — WHE570ECD3F8D

Israeli settler-colonial practices have systematically destroyed Palestinian land and ancient olive trees, particularly in the Bethlehem district of the West Bank. This visual study employs documentary photography and participant-based analysis to document the transformation of the landscape through illegal settlements, military zones, and segregation infrastructure. The research reveals how these changes suffocate daily life, erasing historical and cultural markers. The findings stem from a long-term project (2005–ongoing) involving extensive fieldwork across Palestinian cities, villages, and refugee camps, highlighting the intersection of settler-colonialism with modern oppressive technologies.

The Origins and History of the Mahābodhi Temple

Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodh Gaya — 2019 — WHE19CB8B7542

Archaeological and historical evidence suggests that the Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodh Gaya evolved from a smaller shrine under the Bodhi tree into its current pyramidal structure. A terracotta plaque found in Kumrahar near Patna provides an early depiction of the temple's architecture, dating to the second-fourth century CE, while railings and stone pillars with Asokan similarities hint at the site's sacred significance and historical development. These findings challenge assumptions about the temple's origins and highlight its role as a pivotal pilgrimage site for Buddhists worldwide.

The Painted Chamber at Westminster and the Openings of Parliament, 1399–1484*

Palace of Westminster and Westminster Abbey including Saint Margaret’s Church — 2019 — WHE8F148A7209

The Painted Chamber at Westminster served as a pivotal parliamentary space during the 15th century, hosting 41 openings of parliament between 1399 and 1484. This study reveals that the chamber and its associated rituals were strategic tools used by the crown to assert authority while fostering political dialogue with the Commons, reflecting a response to the growing influence of Parliament. By integrating historical, art historical, and archaeological evidence, the research demonstrates how the Painted Chamber facilitated a dynamic relationship between the monarchy and legislative bodies, shaping early parliamentary practices.