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Publications

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Historical Background

Amiens Cathedral — 2018 — WHEB25A9C1C87

A shift in Gothic architectural style, characterized by the introduction of flying buttresses and higher clerestories, emerged in the late twelfth century, marking a departure from earlier Romanesque influences. This transition is evident in structures like Amiens Cathedral, where conservative elements persisted into the early thirteenth century. The study contrasts these developments with the more innovative Early Gothic designs seen in Chartres and Paris, highlighting stylistic changes through an analysis of portals, façades, and stained-glass windows. By examining the evolution of interior space and exterior mass relationships, the research underscores the gradual abandonment of Romanesque mural emphasis in favor of more advanced Gothic techniques.

Historical Stained Glass Painting Techniques - Technology and preservation

Monastery of Batalha — 2018 — WHE7690305B8A

Research on historical stained glass painting techniques reveals that the choice of raw materials, binders, and firing parameters significantly impacts paint adhesion and color outcomes. The study found that using zaffer as a coloring agent does not predict the final result before firing, while smalt allows for better pre-firing assessment. Sanguine red paint's outcome is highly influenced by heating rates, with gum arabic enhancing adhesion. Grisaille paints show evolving surface homogeneity over time, with variations in lead-based glass composition and colorant ratios. Corrosion studies on blue enamels indicate that the lixiviation of alkaline components can alter cobalt's color due to interactions with neighboring ions or Pb2+, potentially forming lead white. These findings, derived from a multi-analytical approach combining historical treatises, recipe reproduction, and laboratory analysis, provide new insights into the preservation and restoration of stained glass, exemplified by comparisons with fragments from Batalha Monastery and other Portuguese heritage sites.

Historical Trends in pH and Carbonate Biogeochemistry on the Belize Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System

Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System — 2018 — WHE2A34F084D0

A complex, non-linear relationship between seawater pH and coral calcification emerges from a 90-year reconstruction of biogeochemical trends on the Belize Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. Using paired boron (δ¹¹B) and carbon (δ¹³C) isotope measurements from the coral Siderastrea siderea, researchers parsed historical pH shifts into net ecosystem productivity and calcification changes, revealing that coral reef responses to acidification are more nuanced than previously assumed. This study highlights the potential of coupled isotopic analyses to unravel past biogeochemical dynamics in reef ecosystems, offering critical insights for predicting future coral health under anthropogenic stressors.

Histories and Material Manifestations of Slavery in the Upper Gambia River Region: Preliminary Results of the Bandafassi Regional Archaeological Project

Bassari Country: Bassari, Fula and Bedik Cultural Landscapes — 2018 — WHED278598A58

Archaeological evidence from the Bandafassi Regional Archaeological Project (BRAP) reveals significant changes in settlement patterns and defensive architecture in the Upper Gambia River region, highlighting the local impacts of Atlantic-era slavery. These material manifestations contrast with narratives used in UNESCO World Heritage applications, which emphasize interethnic ecological complementarities, and local tour guides' narratives, which focus on intercommunity politics and militarism. BRAP's approach analyzes historiographical silences and acknowledgments to uncover the complexities of slavery's role in shaping this multiethnic landscape, offering a nuanced perspective that complements broader regional studies.

History of focus-concord constructions and focus-associated particles in Sinhala, with comparison to Dravidian and Japanese

Ancient City of Sigiriya — 2018 — WHE42C491B1BD

A new linguistic analysis reveals that the focus concord construction in Sinhala—first documented in pre-second millennial graffiti at Sigiriya’s Mirror Wall—has evolved from impersonal verbal nominalizations in Old Sinhala to a modern colloquial structure showing agreement with focused elements. This study traces its development alongside parallel constructions in Dravidian languages (Malayalam and Tamil) and Japanese (kakari-musubi), identifying shared patterns while highlighting Sinhala’s unique trajectory. The research combines historical linguistics, comparative analysis, and textual evidence from Sigiriya to reconstruct the construction’s transformation over millennia.

Holocene relative mean sea‐level changes in the Wadden Sea area, northern Netherlands

Wadden Sea — 2018 — WHE93DDEF0BBF

A new reconstruction of Holocene relative mean sea-level changes in the Wadden Sea, northern Netherlands, reveals that early Holocene sea levels were lower and rose more steeply than previously thought for the western Netherlands. This challenges predictions from glacial isostatic adjustment (GIA) models, which had suggested greater postglacial subsidence due to rebound effects from Fennoscandia. The study compiled basal peat radiocarbon dates to create this curve, finding that after 6400 calibrated years before present (cal a BP), the Wadden Sea's sea-level rise aligns statistically with western Netherlands data. This discrepancy raises questions about either the GIA model's accuracy or the quality of existing data. Researchers call for additional radiocarbon dating to resolve this inconsistency, emphasizing the need for more precise long-term sea-level data to inform models and understand vertical land motion.

Horse-Headed Saint Christopher Fresco in the Sviyazhsk Assumption Cathedral (16th -17th Century, Russia): History and Archaeometry

Assumption Cathedral and Monastery of the town-island of Sviyazhsk — 2018 — WHEF54C25BD69

A unique 16th–17th century fresco of Saint Christopher with a horse head, located in the UNESCO-listed Assumption Cathedral of Sviyazhsk (Russia), has been analyzed for the first time using archaeometric techniques. The study revealed that while original pigments included natural earths and smalt, traces of cinnabar, minium, lead white, chromium, titanium, and nickel indicated multiple restoration interventions over time. Scanning electron microscopy also showed layered painting, suggesting alterations to the saint’s depiction. Additionally, the fresco’s dolomite-based plaster exhibited degradation, with calcium-magnesium separation near cracks, providing insights into its long-term stability.

Horti Recidivi

Naumburg Cathedral — 2018 — WHEF27BF7F089

Medieval garden restoration practices have evolved significantly, with recent approaches focusing on either authentic period reconstructions or 'modern-medieval' designs that blend contemporary aesthetics with medieval symbolism. The study analyzes these trends through case studies such as Queen Eleanor’s Garden and Naumburg Cathedral's garden, examining how archaeological evidence, documentary sources, and modern perceptions—including gender associations and commercialization—shape the interpretation of historic gardens. It highlights the tension between authenticity and creative reinterpretation, questioning whether contemporary designs deliberately incorporate gendered elements to enhance visitor appeal.

Housing Reform

Old and New Towns of Edinburgh — 2018 — WHE9161166365

Scottish housing standards have historically lagged behind those of other nations, particularly in the face of its challenging climate. The study highlights that the construction of Edinburgh's New Town in the late 18th century marked a significant city improvement scheme, while an 1827 Act further reshaped the Old Town's layout. This period saw a renewed emphasis on addressing the moral and social evils linked to poor housing conditions, championed by figures such as Dr. W. P. Alison and Rev. Dr. James Begg. The research draws from Victorian essays and achievements to illustrate the evolution of housing reform in Scotland's capital cities, providing insights into the intersection of urban development, social reform, and public health.

Housing Renewal Sites and Spatial Features of Deterioration and Deprivation in Istanbul’s Historic Peninsula

Historic Areas of Istanbul — 2018 — WHEF57BF7A730

Istanbul's historic peninsula is undergoing rapid urban transformation, raising questions about the effectiveness of housing renewal programs. A study found that these programs often fail to align with spatial boundaries and locational characteristics of deprived housing estates, despite theoretical success in social and economic objectives. The research employed a quantitative methodology within a spatial framework to measure comparative deprivation features between renewal sites and other residential quarters. Findings indicate discrepancies between planned renewal areas and actual deprivation patterns, offering critical insights for evaluating the implementation frameworks of these programs.

How Can Climate Change Affect the UNESCO Cultural Heritage Sites in Panama?

Fortifications on the Caribbean Side of Panama: Portobelo-San Lorenzo — 2018 — WHE707D3C11C3

Climate change is projected to significantly accelerate the deterioration of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Panama, particularly those constructed with vulnerable materials. Research using high-resolution climate models (EC-Earth) predicts increased surface recession, biomass accumulation, and salt crystallization damage by midcentury (2039–2068), compared to recent decades (1979–2008). The study analyzed construction materials and local meteoclimatic conditions at Panamá Viejo and the Fortresses of Portobelo-San Lorenzo, combining historical data with future projections under a high greenhouse gas emission scenario. These findings highlight urgent conservation challenges for Panamanian heritage sites facing intensified environmental stressors.

How to estimate population size in crocodylians? Population ecology of American crocodiles in Coiba Island as study case

Coiba National Park and its Special Zone of Marine Protection — 2018 — WHE7255CEA720

A minimum population size of ~112 non-hatchling American crocodiles was estimated on Coiba Island, Panama, revealing that traditional spotlight survey methods (Messel's and King's visible fraction estimations) significantly underestimate populations. The most robust estimate, ranging from 147 to 257 individuals, was derived using the POPAN mark–recapture method, accounting for sex and age groups. This study highlights critical biases in population estimation techniques and provides recommendations to improve accuracy. By comparing findings with other insular and coastal regions, it advances understanding of American crocodile ecology, offering valuable insights for conservation efforts at UNESCO World Heritage Site Coiba National Park.

How to Maintain a Rural Settlement through Screening and Accepting I-Turn Migrants in Amami-oshima Island, Japan: Counterevidence to the “Marginal Settlement Discourse” by Examining the Case of Katetsu, Setouchi-cho

Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, Northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island — 2018 — WHECB19513780

A rural settlement on Amami-Oshima Island, Japan, defies the 'marginal settlement discourse' by successfully maintaining its community through selective integration of I-turn migrants—individuals who return to rural areas after living in urban centers. The study reveals that Katetsu village, Setouchi-cho, achieves this by screening migrants based on their alignment with local values and participation in communal activities. Unlike other rural areas facing decline, Katetsu's closed housing market and consensus-driven events act as gatekeepers, ensuring newcomers adapt to non-urban lifestyles while reinforcing the village's social fabric. This case challenges the notion that such settlements are inherently unsustainable.

How will web and social media usage affect the future of museums? Case Study: The Museum of Islamic Art in Cairo

Historic Cairo — 2018 — WHE4C0A6EC463

Museums globally are increasingly leveraging web and social media to enhance engagement, communication, and collaboration with audiences. A study on the Museum of Islamic Art in Cairo revealed that while the museum employs an advanced, innovative technological strategy, visitor satisfaction with its website design is only partial. The research, combining semi-structured interviews with 15 staff members and a survey of 140 participants, identified areas for improvement to better integrate new technologies. These findings offer actionable recommendations for museum managers aiming to optimize digital engagement strategies.

Hugh Elton, Frontiers of the Roman Empire

Frontiers of the Roman Empire — 2018 — WHEABDCFF7E75

Hugh Elton's Frontiers of the Roman Empire offers a comprehensive analysis of Rome's frontier systems, revealing their complex interplay between military strategy and cultural exchange. The book challenges traditional narratives by emphasizing the fluidity and adaptability of these frontiers, rather than viewing them as rigid boundaries. Elton employs a multidisciplinary approach, integrating archaeological evidence, historical records, and geographical data to reconstruct the dynamics of Roman expansion. His work highlights how frontier zones functioned as spaces of interaction, trade, and identity formation, reshaping our understanding of Rome's imperial reach.

HUL and Conservation of the Historic City of Kulangsu: A Scoping Case

Kulangsu, a Historic International Settlement — 2018 — WHEB8F0EB9E3D

Kulangsu, China's historic international settlement, offers a unique case study for urban heritage conservation under the UNESCO Historic Urban Landscape (HUL) Approach. This innovative method, adopted in 2011, redefines how sites like Kulangsu are evaluated and conserved by integrating built environment, social life, and community engagement. The HUL framework has significantly altered the site's conservation strategy, enhancing its global significance while addressing practical challenges. By identifying key heritage elements and ensuring integrity, this approach aims to improve urban quality and foster deeper interaction between residents and the site. As Kulangsu prepares for potential World Heritage nomination, the study highlights how the HUL Approach can reshape conservation practices, offering a model for other historic cities.

Human Disturbance is the Major Determinant of the Habitat and Prey Preference of the Bengal Tiger (Panthera tigris tigris) in the Chitwan National Park, Nepal

Chitwan National Park — 2018 — WHE79AA8E9839

Human disturbance significantly influences the habitat and prey preferences of Bengal tigers (Panthera tigris tigris) in Chitwan National Park, Nepal. Tigers favor successional forests, grasslands, and floodplains while avoiding Shorea forests and areas with high human activity. Prey preference analysis revealed a strong preference for medium-sized prey (e.g., chital, wild boar) over large-sized prey (e.g., sambar, gaur), likely due to their higher availability in the region. Tigers also utilize domestic prey more frequently in highly disturbed areas where wild prey is scarce. The study highlights that tiger behavior adapts to human-induced changes, increasing human-wildlife conflict and potentially leading to declines in prey populations. Effective park management, such as delineating core prohibited zones and buffer areas for local access, could mitigate these disturbances and support tiger conservation efforts.

Human Migration and Ethnic Expression in the Southeastern Borderland of Mesoamerica

Maya Site of Copan — 2018 — WHE5119AD7C5E

A significant proportion of Copán, a Maya World Heritage Site in Honduras, was shaped by immigration from across the Maya region. Analysis of skeletal remains using osteology, mortuary archaeology, and stable isotope analysis revealed that immigrants—regardless of age, sex, or socioeconomic status—integrated into this multiethnic city. Biocultural practices like dental decoration and intentional head shaping served as markers of social identity, particularly 'Mayahood.' These modifications exhibited dynamic changes over time and space, reflecting fluid ethnic identities in the southeastern Maya borderlands.

Human Rights-Based Approaches to World Heritage Conservation in Bagan, Myanmar: Conceptual, Political, and Practical Considerations

Bagan — 2018 — WHE1B978574C2

Human rights-based approaches to World Heritage conservation, while offering valuable insights for Bagan, Myanmar, face significant conceptual, political, and practical challenges. The study highlights that ambiguities in interpreting cultural, development, and land rights create uncertainty about who holds these rights. Politically, the enforcement of such policies is influenced by multilateral and bilateral negotiations between states, while practically, Myanmar's low legal and administrative capacity poses implementation hurdles. Despite these limitations, human rights-based approaches can still provide meaningful perspectives in World Heritage conservation efforts.

Humulus lupulus L. (Cannabaceae): A new record for Uttarakhand

Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks — 2018 — WHE8A2587D422

A notable botanical discovery has been made in the Valley of Flowers National Park, Uttarakhand, where Humulus lupulus L. (Cannabaceae), commonly known as hops, was recorded for the first time in the region. Previously documented only in Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir, this economic plant species extends its known distribution to Uttarakhand, contributing valuable data to regional biodiversity records. The research provides a detailed description and photographic documentation of the taxon, facilitating field identification. This finding enhances our understanding of the flora in one of India's UNESCO World Heritage Sites, underscoring the importance of systematic surveys in such ecologically significant areas.