Publications
Understanding climate risks to world cultural heritage: a systematic analysis and assessment framework for the case of Spain
A systematic analysis identifies Santiago de Compostela (Old Town) among Spain's five most vulnerable UNESCO World Heritage Sites to climate risks, including freeze-thaw cycles, thermal stress, hydrodynamic forces, corrosion, and biodegradation. Researchers developed a spatial database linking 45 Spanish sites with climatic variables and assessed their susceptibility using historical data and impact mechanisms. The study highlights that achieving carbon neutrality (SSP1-2.6 scenario) significantly reduces climate risks to cultural heritage. This framework provides actionable insights for protecting Spain's irreplaceable heritage from climate change impacts.
‘When Going to Saint James’: An Old Russian Graffito from the 12th Century in Aquitania
A significant epigraphic discovery from the 12th century provides direct evidence of Russian pilgrimages to Santiago de Compostela. An Old Russian graffito, inscribed by Ivan Zavidovich on the wall of St. Vivien church in Pons (France), reads: 'Ivan Zavidovich wrote this when going to Saint James.' The inscription, dated to the 1160s–1180s, is the second such finding in France and offers valuable insights into medieval pilgrimage routes and cultural exchanges between Eastern Europe and Western Christendom. The study combines palaeographic analysis with historical context, linking the name Zavidovich to Novgorod boyars and highlighting the shrine's prominence in Old Russia.
Cathedrals in the Digital Age: a Case Study of Santiago de Compostela and Canterbury
Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) have become pivotal in modern tourism strategies, particularly for UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Santiago de Compostela's Old Town. A study comparing the cathedrals of Santiago de Compostela and Canterbury reveals that both sites leverage digital tools to attract tourists, with a notable increase in online visits and ICT service provision since 2010. These technologies have transformed the way information is shared and managed, reflecting the shift towards 'smart cities' and modern travel practices. Despite significant changes from historical pilgrimage routes, these cathedrals remain prominent cultural and religious destinations, drawing vast numbers of visitors. The research highlights the adaptability of ancient attractions in embracing digital advancements while maintaining their historical significance.
You are here:
World Heritage Explorer > World Heritage Research > World Heritage Sites > Santiago de Compostela (Old Town)