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Showing 18301 – 18320 of 30345 publications

Efficient reproduction of heritage buildings: a new way to exploit 3D point cloud slicing : An example with the Amiens Gothic Cathedral

Amiens Cathedral — 2018 — WHEBC5613CA00

Researchers have developed an innovative approach to visualize complex heritage buildings using 3D point cloud slicing, addressing the challenges of data overload and computational demands. This method enables efficient reproduction of intricate structures, such as Amiens Cathedral, by breaking down dense 3D models into manageable slices for web-based systems. The study demonstrates that this technique not only reduces the need for significant computing power but also enhances user comprehension through a generative web system designed for cultural mediation. User feedback confirms the effectiveness and accessibility of this approach, offering a scalable solution for digitized heritage visualization.

Efficient space and resource planning strategies: treelike fractal traffic networks of the Ming Great Wall Military Defence System

The Great Wall — 2018 — WHE2A907DA5D9

The Ming Great Wall (1368–1644) is more than a linear barrier—it is part of a sophisticated, treelike fractal traffic network that integrates with the wall to form an efficient military defense system. This study reveals how the Ming Great Wall Military Defence System (M-GWMDS) optimizes space and resource allocation through its fractal structure, merging military and civil settlements into a double-fractal system. Using Geographic Information System (GIS) analysis and fractal theory, researchers uncovered that this network allows for highly effective defense strategies in border regions, adapting to the unique man-land relationship of the era.

Einblicke in die Dessauer Bauhausbauten als materielles Erbe

Bauhaus and its Sites in Weimar, Dessau and Bernau — 2018 — WHE3A492CC7A2

Key insights into the materiality of Bauhaus Dessau's architecture, which significantly influenced 20th-century design, are preserved through the Bauhaus Dessau Foundation's research archive. The study highlights the importance of understanding and preserving materials like concrete, Torfoleum, and stonewood screed from iconic structures such as the Bauhaus building, Masters’ Houses, and the Dessau-Törten housing estate. By analyzing these materials, researchers provide critical perspectives on both the historical development and long-term conservation of Bauhaus architecture.

El agua en el cerro del Rayo: nueva evidencia sobre la presencia y manejo del agua en Monte Albán

Historic Centre of Oaxaca and Archaeological Site of Monte Albán — 2018 — WHE0928B3FEB5

New evidence reveals that Monte Albán, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Oaxaca, Mexico, was not only a significant archaeological site but also a sophisticated center for water management. A recent hydrological study identified multiple water sources on the site, including run-offs, streams, and springs that flow down Cerro del Rayo to the Atoyac River. Archaeological surveys confirmed the presence of advanced water control technologies such as wells, walls, dams, and canals. This suggests that Monte Albán may have been perceived as a 'hill of sustenance,' akin to an altepetl, a place of worship for Cociyo, the deity associated with lightning and rain. The findings provide deeper insights into the cultural and religious significance of water in this ancient civilization.

El análisis químico de las aguas. Ciencia colonial, exploración y supervivencia en península Valdés a fines del siglo XVIII

Península Valdés — 2018 — WHE6C7E4F14EF

A previously unpublished chemical analysis of waters from Península Valdés, conducted during the Spanish colonization at the end of the 18th century, reveals early scientific efforts to assess water quality and its implications for human health. The study transcribes a rare document detailing the analysis methods used in 1779, providing insight into the 'translation' of chemical elements—likely linked to combating scurvy—a critical concern during colonial expansion. Contextualized within broader themes of resource management and scientific modernization, this work highlights Península Valdés's significance as a site where chemistry played a pivotal role in survival and public health strategies.

El devenir turístico de Kumano, su adaptación a las nuevas tendencias de la espiritualidad japonesa y su proyección internacional a través del hermanamiento con el Camino de Santiago

Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range — 2018 — WHEA1679F869C

Kumano Kodō, a pilgrimage route in Japan's Kii Mountain Range, has evolved significantly over time, adapting to modern tourism trends and spiritual practices while maintaining its cultural significance. This study highlights how the route has transformed from traditional pilgrimages into a contemporary tourist destination, influenced by both domestic and international factors. Notably, Kumano Kodō’s twinning with the Camino de Santiago in Spain reflects its growing global relevance. The research explores these adaptations through historical analysis and examination of spiritual trends, providing insights into the intersection of tourism, spirituality, and cultural identity in Japan.

El empleo de fotogrametría mediante vehículos aéreos no tripulados (VANT/dron) como herramienta de evaluación del patrimonio en riesgo: chinampas arqueológicas de Xochimilco

Historic Centre of Mexico City and Xochimilco — 2018 — WHEBCF7C0A561

A study demonstrates that unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs or drones) equipped with specialized cameras can effectively evaluate archaeological features at shallow depths, offering a high-resolution alternative to traditional methods like LIDAR. Researchers used photogrammetry—processing stereopairs of visible light and near-infrared images—to generate digital elevation models and normalized differential vegetation index (NDVI) maps. These tools revealed buried traits in the chinampas (floating gardens) of Xochimilco, Mexico, by enhancing differences in vegetation growth and health. The approach provides a cost-effective, scalable solution for assessing at-risk cultural heritage sites.

El excursionismo cultural desde destinos turísticos urbanos a sitios patrimoniales: de Madrid a Toledo = Cultural hiking from urban touristic destinations to heritage places: from Madrid to Toledo

Historic City of Toledo — 2018 — WHE961FAC4BC1

The primary driver of cultural tourism from Madrid to Toledo is the oversupply of excursions offered by tour operators, which discourages longer stays despite Toledo's efforts to promote overnight visits. Research reveals that geographical proximity and high-speed rail connections facilitate this short-duration tourism, while the appeal of Toledo's heritage attracts visitors. However, the lack of collaboration between Toledo's tourism sector and Madrid-based operators perpetuates the trend of day trips, limiting economic benefits for Toledo. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, analyzing diverse data sources to holistically understand the phenomenon and its impacts on destination sustainability.

El manejo del fuego en Calakmul, Campeche: incendios forestales, gobernanza y variabilidad local de la precipitación

Ancient Maya City and Protected Tropical Forests of Calakmul, Campeche — 2018 — WHE603F54C2D5

Farmers in Calakmul, Campeche, demonstrate a nuanced understanding of weather patterns and adapt their fire management practices to local precipitation variability. Research shows that successful agricultural burns—characterized by complete biomass combustion and controlled fire propagation—are influenced by dry and wet year conditions. By comparing farmers' practices with meteorological data, the study reveals how climate variability shapes fire governance strategies. This highlights the need for institutions tailored to local environmental conditions to effectively manage forest fires and support sustainable agriculture.

El paisaje desde la arquitectura: los espacios para la contemplación en la Alhambra y el Generalife

Alhambra, Generalife and Albayzín, Granada — 2018 — WHEBF772B5E3D

A pioneering architectural approach to landscape contemplation is evident in the Alhambra and Generalife, predating Renaissance Europe's landscape awareness. The study reveals that these spaces, designed for high-status functions, deliberately frame views of the surrounding territory, reflecting an advanced aesthetic sensitivity to the environment. This deliberate integration of landscape into architecture marks a significant evolution from earlier Islamic traditions adapted to arid landscapes, culminating in Granada as a paradigmatic setting for the Nazarí dynasty. The research highlights how these structures transformed the region's fertile and temperate terrain into a symbol of cultural and aesthetic significance.

Electromagnetic Shielding Effectiveness of Historic Buildings: The Heritage Stone Town of Zanzibar

Stone Town of Zanzibar — 2018 — WHE713835C9C0

Historic buildings constructed with traditional materials, such as coral stone, mud, and mangrove poles, exhibit significant electromagnetic shielding effectiveness (SE), comparable to renowned structures from the Roman Empire. This finding highlights the potential of these materials in mitigating health and security risks posed by electromagnetic radiation (EMR) from modern wireless devices. The study tested buildings in Stone Town of Zanzibar, demonstrating that their construction techniques and materials can effectively shield EMR, offering insights for future building designs to incorporate traditional materials for enhanced shielding properties.

Elevation change of Fedchenko Glacier, Pamir Mountains, from GNSS field measurements and TanDEM-X elevation models, with a focus on the upper glacier

Tajik National Park (Mountains of the Pamirs) — 2018 — WHE09531A75A6

Significant acceleration in glacier thinning on Fedchenko Glacier, the largest in the Pamir Mountains, has been observed between 2009 and 2016. The study reveals that thinning rates increased by a factor of 1.8 compared to the period from 1928–2000, reaching peak values of 1.5 meters per year. Even high-altitude accumulation basins above 5000 meters have experienced thinning at rates between -0.2 and -0.4 meters annually. The research utilized GNSS field measurements and TanDEM-X elevation models, with adjustments for radar wave penetration to minimize biases. This approach estimated glacier-wide mass-balance rates of -0.27 ± 0.05 meters water equivalent per year from 2000 to 2011, and -0.51 ± 0.04 meters water equivalent per year between 2011 and 2016.

Elites and commoners at Great Zimbabwe: archaeological and ethnographic insights on social power

Great Zimbabwe National Monument — 2018 — WHEF297DC759B

A groundbreaking study challenges traditional notions of social hierarchy at the UNESCO World Heritage Site Great Zimbabwe (AD 1000–1700). By integrating new archaeological data with Shona philosophy and ethnography, researchers found that 'elite' and 'commoner' statuses were fluid and situational, rather than fixed categories. This African-centred perspective offers a nuanced alternative to global interpretive frameworks, providing valuable insights for the comparative archaeology of ancient cities.

Elites and Human Sacrifices at Paquimé: A Bioarchaeological Assessment

Archaeological Zone of Paquimé, Casas Grandes — 2018 — WHEDF38F88CCA

Bioarchaeological evidence from Paquimé, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and center of the Casas Grandes culture, reveals ritual human sacrifice linked to elite burials. Analysis of a complex subfloor tomb containing 12 individuals showed stark differences between two burial layers: commingled remains of unhealthy older sub-adults with extreme post-mortem processing, and articulated elites with elaborate mortuary treatment, good health, and no post-mortem alteration. These findings align with Mesoamerican sacrificial practices, suggesting the commingled remains were companion sacrifices for the elite, reflecting culturally specific ritual violence and political dynamics at Paquimé.

Emergent conservation conflicts in the Galapagos Islands: Human-giant tortoise interactions in the rural area of Santa Cruz Island

Galápagos Islands — 2018 — WHE91D9CB3FEA

A growing conflict between human agricultural development and the conservation of Galapagos giant tortoises (Chelonoidis spp.) has emerged on Santa Cruz Island, threatening the species' recovery. Research reveals that farmers experiencing crop damage are more likely to take aggressive measures against tortoises, such as fencing or physical intervention, regardless of their overall perception of the animals. Economic losses for crops and fences average 2.8 USD per square meter and 13 USD per meter, respectively, highlighting significant financial impacts. The study also estimated tortoise densities at 76 individuals per km² during lowland migrations (January–June) and 185 per km² during highland migrations (July–December). Combining participatory rural appraisal methods with ecological transect counts, this work provides critical data to guide conservation strategies, offering a balanced approach to resolving human-wildlife conflicts in UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Emerging Built Heritage Commodification of Boutique Hotels in World Heritage Site: Evidence from George Town, Penang, Malaysia

Melaka and George Town, Historic Cities of the Straits of Malacca — 2018 — WHE9D840F933B

Boutique hotels in George Town, Penang, Malaysia, exemplify the commodification of built heritage, leveraging the city's global recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and its historic charm. This study reveals that external factors such as international acclaim and the city's setting drive investors to repurpose historic premises into boutique accommodations, blending tangible heritage with contemporary uses. Through semi-structured interviews with hotel managers and entrepreneurs, the research identifies key drivers behind this trend, contributing empirical data on the process of built heritage commodification in heritage cities.

Emerging ecosystems of information and city: Anglo digital repository

Fray Bentos Industrial Landscape — 2018 — WHEFF04556360

A digital repository for the Museo de la Revolución Industrial in Fray Bentos, Uruguay, has been developed to advance the dissemination of architectural and historical heritage within the context of smart cities. This innovative project, part of the I+D initiative 'La ciudad inteligente; un palimpsesto digital,' integrates advanced digital visualization techniques to explore the territory as an integral cultural landscape. The repository not only preserves historical data but also serves as a dynamic tool for understanding the evolution of industrial landscapes and their cultural significance. By analyzing the implementation process, this study provides insights into how digital ecosystems can enhance heritage conservation and urban development in UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Emily Aloiz; Janet G. Douglas, Alexander Nagel. “Painted plaster and glazed brick fragments from Achaemenid Pasargadae and Persepolis, Iran”

Pasargadae — 2018 — WHE8F231D97E4

Achaemenid architectural decoration at Pasargadae and Persepolis, Iran, featured distinct geometric patterns with volutes, unlike the monochrome floors of Persepolis. Glazed brick fragments from Persepolis revealed the use of lead antimony for yellow hues, copper for greenish tones, iron for raised gray lines, and alkaline earths for white outlines, suggesting sophisticated material techniques. Though fragment size limits full motif reconstruction, circular designs with raised borders were identified. This study advances understanding of Achaemenid decorative practices through material analysis.

Empirical optimization of risk thresholds for dengue: an approach towards entomological management of Aedes mosquitoes based on larval indices in the Kandy District of Sri Lanka

Sacred City of Kandy — 2018 — WHE20CB70BDE8

Researchers have identified critical risk thresholds for dengue vector indices, specifically the Premise Index (PI), Breteau Index (BI), and Container Index (CI) for Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus in the Kandy District of Sri Lanka. Using Gumbel frequency analysis, they determined that PI values above 6.75 indicate low risk, while values exceeding 9.43 and 12.82 signify moderate and high risk, respectively. These thresholds can serve as decision-making indicators for vector control efforts, optimizing the use of financial, technical, and human resources. The study suggests that these empirically derived cut-off values could enhance dengue management strategies in Sri Lanka.

Empirical test of the ClimateWNA model for local accuracy in the Kluane Lake area of the southern Yukon, Canada

Kluane / Wrangell-St. Elias / Glacier Bay / Tatshenshini-Alsek — 2018 — WHED379C38D1B

A study found that the ClimateWNA model provides reasonably accurate estimates of summer temperature but not rainfall for local areas in Kluane Lake, southern Yukon. Researchers compared 25 years of ecological data with ClimateWNA predictions and a similar model (Daymet) from 2001 to 2014. While monthly summer temperatures matched well (r = 0.90), rainfall estimates were poorly correlated (r = 0.37). The findings caution against relying on these models for precise ecological predictions in this region, highlighting the need for localized climate data.