Publications
Showing 19961 – 19980 of 30345 publications
Disused Areas and Urban Regeneration. the Historic Centre of Vicenza, Italy
City of Vicenza and the Palladian Villas of the Veneto — 2017 — WHE219E1663A2
A degraded area between Vicenza’s historic center and the Bacchiglione river, long neglected as a parking lot or warehouse, presents a unique opportunity for urban regeneration. This study proposes leveraging its strategic location to restore social and cultural connections with the city’s river, addressing historical disassociations. The research outlines potential interventions developed during an architectural course at the University of Padua, aiming to transform the area into a space for qualitative restoration and community enrichment. By integrating rituals and past linkages, the project seeks to repair the water-city relationship while revitalizing Vicenza’s urban fabric.
Diversite Floristique Et Structure Des Fragments Forestiers Du Sud-Ouest Du Parc National De La Comoe Apres Les Conflits Des Annees 2000 En Côte d’Ivoire
Comoé National Park — 2017 — WHEB67A1D171C
A study assessing the floristic diversity and structural resilience of forest fragments in southwest Comoé National Park, Côte d’Ivoire, reveals that these areas retain significant biodiversity despite decades of political instability. Researchers identified 256 plant species across 12 fragments, with Rubiaceae and Fabaceae being the most abundant families. Notably, 23 species are endemic to Côte d’Ivoire, including Salacia miegei and Uvaria tortilis, while nine others hold high commercial value for their timber. Despite intense human pressure, forest density remains robust at over 550 trees per hectare, though large trees are scarce. The findings suggest that these fragments retain strong floristic potential, even after prolonged conflict-related disturbances.
Diversity of ectomycorrhizal fungal fruit bodies in Como National Park, a Biosphere Reserve and World Heritage in Cte dIvoire (West Africa)
Comoé National Park — 2017 — WHE737E3025D5
A study conducted at Comoé National Park, Côte d’Ivoire, revealed a high diversity of 123 ectomycorrhizal (EcM) fungal species across 23 genera and nine families. The research identified key environmental factors influencing fungal distribution, with stem density of Uapaca togoensis and Isoblinia doka emerging as significant predictors. Two distinct site groups were distinguished based on fungal community composition, highlighting the ecological complexity of this tropical African World Heritage Site. The study employed weekly surveys across nine permanent plots and advanced statistical analyses, including NMDS, hierarchical clustering, and indicator species analysis, to unravel the spatial distribution and phenology of EcM fungi in relation to climatic variability.
Diversity of Mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) Attracted to Human Subjects in Rubber Plantations, Secondary Forests, and Villages in Luang Prabang Province, Northern Lao PDR
Town of Luang Prabang — 2017 — WHE1BE842D02D
A study in Luang Prabang, Lao PDR, reveals that secondary forests harbor significantly higher mosquito populations and vector species compared to rubber plantations and villages. Over nine months, 24,927 female mosquitoes were collected, including 51 new species for the region. Secondary forests showed greater abundance of vectors for dengue, Japanese encephalitis (JE), lymphatic filariasis, and malaria than immature and mature rubber plantations, with Aedes albopictus dominating in natural and man-made forests, while Culex vishnui was prevalent in villages. The research used human-baited traps and generalized estimating equations to analyze habitat differences, highlighting concerns about Ae. albopictus's dominance outside urban areas where vector control is typically focused.
Documentación 3D de la Cova dels Cavalls y de su Entorno (Tírig, Castellón)
Rock Art of the Mediterranean Basin on the Iberian Peninsula — 2017 — WHE105446B714
A groundbreaking geomatics workflow successfully documented the complex rock art of Cova dels Cavalls, part of the UNESCO-listed Rock Art of the Mediterranean Basin on the Iberian Peninsula. This 3D digital representation method offers a reliable way to preserve and transmit archaeological heritage to future generations. The study meticulously captured the site's intricate details through various stages, from data acquisition to producing photorealistic models. These high-precision models provide unprecedented insights into the rock art, ensuring its conservation and accessibility for both academic research and public engagement.
Documentation for Preservation: Methodology and a GIS Database of Three World Heritage Cities in Uzbekistan
Itchan Kala — 2017 — WHE413594FB78
A collaborative effort spanning from 2008 to 2015 has successfully established a methodology and GIS database for documenting the historic buildings and dwellings within three UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Uzbekistan: Bukhara, Itchan Kala, and Samarkand. This initiative, supported by the Ministry of Culture and Sports of Uzbekistan and UNESCO, addresses critical gaps in heritage documentation and systematic monitoring, which have been threatening these sites. The research consolidates a robust framework for understanding the outstanding heritage values of these cities, enabling the development of effective preservation and management strategies. By integrating traditional historic houses—often lacking legal protection—into digital databases, this work preserves not only physical structures but also the cultural history, urban fabric, and traditions spanning centuries.
Does season affect fire behaviour in the Cerrado?
Cerrado Protected Areas: Chapada dos Veadeiros and Emas National Parks — 2017 — WHE6D5050B63E
Fire season does not significantly influence fire behavior or intensity in the Cerrado's protected areas, such as Chapada dos Veadeiros and Emas National Parks, contrary to initial hypotheses. The study found that fire intensity is primarily driven by the combination of dead biomass proportion and total fuel load, rather than the timing within the dry season. Researchers compared fire parameters across early, mid-, and late dry seasons, evaluating factors like dead fuel percentage, fuel moisture content, and fuel load. Surprisingly, even in areas with two years of fire exclusion, seasonal variations did not affect fire behavior. Instead, flame height was best explained by dead fuel percentage and fuel moisture content. This insight challenges conventional beliefs about fire management strategies, suggesting that biomass accumulation, rather than seasonality, is the critical factor in controlling fire intensity.
Does the Altitude Affect the Stability of Montane Forests? a Study in the Kahuzi-Biega National Park (Democratic Republic of the Congo)
Kahuzi-Biega National Park — 2017 — WHEB585DE811B
Higher altitudes in montane forests, such as those found in Kahuzi-Biega National Park (Democratic Republic of Congo), exhibit greater floristic stability and resilience to disturbance compared to lower altitudes. This study revealed that the Jaccard index of dissimilarity between understorey and canopy layers decreases with altitude, indicating more consistent species representation across forest strata at higher elevations. Additionally, the proportion of non-pioneer and shade-tolerant species increases with altitude, while pioneer species decline, suggesting enhanced regeneration capability and stability in higher-altitude forests. The research employed a stratified sampling approach, analyzing 10 one-hectare plots spanning altitudes from 1935 to 2760 meters above sea level (a.s.l.), with nested subplots to assess sapling dynamics.
Dolomitic Plasters in Indian Monuments and its Characterization
Group of Monuments at Hampi — 2017 — WHEA4DB1490E0
Research reveals that dolomitic lime, rather than the more common Carboniferous limestone, was used in plasterworks at UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Alampur (6-7th AD) and Lotus Mahal, Hampi (1336-1570 AD). This finding indicates a higher risk of damage due to wetting and necessitates specialized conservation efforts. The study analyzed mineralogical and chemical compositions, showing that hydraulic components were added to enhance durability in Alampur's plasters. Additionally, variations in the ratio of binder to inert materials suggest differing provenances for Hampi's plasterworks, complicating provenance studies. These insights provide critical data for technological evaluation and guide conservators in re-plastering efforts.
Domestic ideologies
Rietveld Schröderhuis (Rietveld Schröder House) — 2017 — WHE15433BC97E
The Schröder House, designed by Gerrit Rietveld and completed in 1924, exemplifies modernist architecture as a platform for exploring innovative living ideals. Unlike traditional domestic spaces, it served as a built manifesto, blending formal and material experimentation to challenge societal norms. The house's contextually appropriate scale and design reflect its role as a symbol of architectural and social redemption, embodying the 'pure' and 'abstract' principles championed by modernist movements like Purism. This case study underscores how modern architecture sought to instruct society through spatial and aesthetic innovation.
Donors of Longmen
Longmen Grottoes — 2017 — WHE1BEA9D0FB8
The Longmen Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site near Luoyang, China, contain over 10,000 ancient cave chapels and shrines with Buddhist sculptures and dedicatory inscriptions from the 5th to 8th centuries. A comprehensive analysis of these inscriptions reveals that donors spanned emperors, aristocrats, eunuchs, artisans, monks, nuns, lay societies, palace officials, civil and military officials, and ordinary believers. This study, the first in a Western language to reconstruct Longmen's history, uses epigraphy, architecture, and iconography to explore the interplay of faith, politics, and patronage from its inception in 493 to the last major project in 730. It provides a nuanced perspective on medieval believers, often marginalized in historical accounts.
Dougga : le portique de Gallien et la fondation de la colonie (261/265)
Dougga / Thugga — 2017 — WHE63B1660AA1
A significant archaeological discovery at Dougga (Thugga) reveals the longest known inscription from Roman North Africa, spanning 26.3 meters and engraved on eleven limestone blocks that formed a portico's architrave-frieze. The inscription, dating to 265 AD, commemorates the establishment of Thugga as a Roman colony, following its founding in late December 261. It also marks the inauguration of a temple dedicated to Tellus, providing insights into the timing and cultural significance of these events. The text highlights the role of Gallien's curator, representing imperial authority, and underscores traditional Roman practices and municipal institutions. This discovery sheds light on the rare promotion of Thugga and neighboring Thubursicum Bure as colonies during Gallien's reign, offering a unique window into the political and social dynamics of late 3rd-century Rome.
Dragonflies and Damselflies (Odonata: Insecta) of Keoladeo National Park, Rajasthan, India
Keoladeo National Park — 2017 — WHE2848254B47
A comprehensive study of Keoladeo National Park, India, revealed the presence of 37 distinct species of dragonflies and damselflies (Odonata), including five previously unrecorded in Rajasthan. The research, spanning from 2010 to 2015, utilized direct search, observation, and opportunistic sighting methods to document this biodiversity. Notably, the Libellulidae family exhibited the highest diversity with 22 species, followed by Coenagrionidae with eight. This study significantly expands the known Odonata fauna of Keoladeo National Park, adding 21 species to the existing record and highlighting the park's ecological significance as a hotspot for these insects.
Dressing the Person: Clothing and Identity in the Casas Grandes World
Archaeological Zone of Paquimé, Casas Grandes — 2017 — WHEB04D18745C
A study of human effigies from the Medio-period (A.D. 1200–1450) at the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Archaeological Zone of Paquimé, Casas Grandes, reveals that clothing and adornments played a significant role in gender symbolism and identity expression. The research finds that males were associated with more elaborate dress, including headbands, while females were linked to fertility symbolism, such as cloud motifs and sternal decorations. Both sexes shared certain attire elements like arm bands, but distinct differences emerged in belts and sandals. The study also identifies continuities in dress from earlier cultures like the Classic Mimbres (A.D. 1000–1150) into historic northern Mexican and southwestern groups, suggesting persistent cultural practices. This analysis underscores how clothing and adornments encoded gender roles within a broader ritual system.
Drop Size Distribution Climatology in Cévennes-Vivarais Region, France
The Causses and the Cévennes, Mediterranean agro-pastoral Cultural Landscape — 2017 — WHEAF54FFD55F
A five-year climatology of drop size distribution (DSD) in the Cévennes-Vivarais region reveals that orographic environment, season, atmospheric weather patterns, and rainfall types significantly influence microphysical processes, impacting rainfall characteristics and the relationship between rainfall rate and reflectivity factor. The study utilized a network of six OTT Parsivel optical disdrometers across two longitudinal transects to analyze these factors, confirming their role in shaping ground-level rainfall dynamics in this Mediterranean region prone to heavy rainfall and flash floods.
Dryinidae and Embolemidae (Hymenoptera, Chrysidoidea) from Anijima, Ogasawara Islands, Japan
Ogasawara Islands — 2017 — WHEA2AE664001
A new survey of the Ogasawara Islands reveals significant discoveries in the diversity of Dryinidae and Embolemidae wasps. Two previously unknown species, Gonatopus adelphos and Ampulicomorpha viator, were identified and described for the first time from Anijima. Additionally, three species—Gonatopus tambiniae, Anteon achterbergi, and Gonatopus nigricans—were recorded in the region for the first time, expanding their known distribution. The male of Dryinus sinicus was also described for the first time. Notably, Gonatopus hagoromo was determined to be a junior synonym of Gonatopus tambiniae. This research contributes to our understanding of the biodiversity and taxonomy of Hymenoptera in this remote and ecologically significant archipelago.
DSA - Digital Support for Art - Process and Tools to Realize a Large Sculpture in a Heritage Urban Environment
Historic Centre of Rome, the Properties of the Holy See in that City Enjoying Extraterritorial Rights and San Paolo Fuori le Mura — 2017 — WHE75DB077A47
A multidisciplinary approach integrating laser scanning, Virtual Reality (VR), and numerical simulations demonstrated significant potential to streamline the creation of large-scale sculptures within heritage urban environments. This research highlights how digital tools can facilitate collaboration between artists, engineers, urbanists, archaeologists, and public authorities, effectively addressing complex challenges in sculptural realization. The project's action research methodology provided a practical framework for solving real-world problems, showcasing its applicability to UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Historic Centre of Rome.
Dubrovački rod Radulovića i njihov grbovnik
Old City of Dubrovnik — 2017 — WHE19AD0779CB
A recently discovered armorial from the library in Modena, Italy, provides evidence linking the origins of Illyrian Heraldry to the Radulović family of Dubrovnik. The armorial, dated to the late 16th century, contains 153 coats of arms, including those of the Radulović family and other notable lineages from Dubrovačko Primorje. Analysis suggests that this is a copy of the Korjenić-Neorićev grbovnik from 1595, commissioned by the Radulović family, who were prominent shipowners, merchants, and members of the Confraternity of St Anthony. The study reveals that the Radulović family adopted their coat of arms from an earlier Illyrian armorial, incorporating elements from the Radijelović lineage and other notable families. This finding sheds light on the social status, connections, and noble descent legends of the Radulović family, as well as their influence in the Kingdom of Naples and Dubrovnik.
Duplex of metamorphic units including ultramafic rocks in the central region of T okunoshima, S outhwest J apan
Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, Northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island — 2017 — WHE29B4283BFF
A unique geological duplex featuring serpentinite, dioritic gneiss, and amphibolite layers was discovered in the central region of Tokunoshima Island, part of the Amami Islands in Southwest Japan. This tectonic stack, characterized by northwest-dipping metamorphic units intercalated with pelitic schist, provides evidence of top-to-the-east, southeast, or south displacements under ductile deformation conditions. The study suggests that this serpentinite-bearing duplex formed due to tectonic erosion and accretionary growth in a Cretaceous or older subduction zone. Notably, the metamorphic rocks in Tokunoshima exhibit low-pressure and high-temperature amphibolite-facies metamorphism, distinct from other regions of the Shimanto Belt and neighboring islands. This discovery challenges existing geological models and highlights the unique metamorphic history of Tokunoshima.
Dwelling Houses and Other Buildings
Itsukushima Shinto Shrine — 2017 — WHEFDE314809E
A notable finding from the study is that traditional Japanese architectural practices, such as the construction of dwelling houses and other buildings, continue to influence contemporary beliefs about luck and health. The research highlights the significance of elements like the irori (hearth) in ancient Japanese heating systems and the doma (earth floor), which persists in some urban areas like Kyoto. Additionally, it explores the cultural importance of toriis, with a focus on the iconic structure at Itsukushima Shrine in Miyajima, known for its size and unique location in the sea. The study also delves into the geographical impact of heavy snowfall in regions along the Northern Japan Sea, termed yukiguni. While the research does not explicitly state its methodology, it likely involves a combination of historical analysis, architectural examination, and cultural anthropology to elucidate these connections.
You are here:
World Heritage Explorer > World Heritage Research > Search