World Heritage Research: Search

Publications

Showing 4181 – 4200 of 4230 publications

On Structural Features of the Old City of Sana'a, Yemen

Old City of Sana'a — 2010 — WHE23A5ADDD6E

The Old City of Sana'a exhibits distinct structural features within its traditional neighborhood units known as harat. Comprising 56 harat, each contains key elements such as mosques, maqushama (green fields), houses, streets, and sharhat (small open squares). This study reveals how modernization, including the installation of water supply and sewerage systems, has significantly altered these traditional units politically, socially, and physically. The research highlights the impact of such changes on Sana'a's historic environment, emphasizing the need to preserve its unique urban fabric while adapting to contemporary demands.

On the Materia Medica of Dioscorides and a Report About a Copy of It in Tehran

Golestan Palace — 2010 — WHEAD328B1E96

A previously undocumented Arabic manuscript of Dioscorides' Materia Medica, one of the foundational pharmacology texts of the Islamic era, has been identified and reported for the first time. This manuscript, housed in the Golestan Palace library in Tehran, is noted for its exceptional quality and significance. The study highlights its historical value, emphasizing its role as a rare and unrecorded treasure in bibliographic literature. The research focuses on the manuscript's attributes, its translation lineage, and its contribution to understanding Islamic pharmacological traditions.

On the Modular Design of Mughal Riverfront Funerary Gardens

Humayun's Tomb, Delhi — 2010 — WHEECD351F48B

A groundbreaking analysis reveals that the modular designs of two iconic Mughal funerary gardens—Humayun's Tomb and the Taj Mahal—were meticulously based on ancient units from the Arthasastra, a 4th-century BCE Indian text. By measuring dimensions in dhanus (D) and vitastis (V), researchers confirmed a low error rate between predicted and actual measurements, providing the first empirical evidence of this architectural canon's influence. This discovery introduces a novel mathematical framework for studying Mughal architecture, bridging ancient textual traditions with tangible structural precision.

Orthopteroids in Kaziranga National Park, Assam, India

Kaziranga National Park — 2010 — WHE3FCC337EA8

A survey of Orthopteroids (insects belonging to the order Orthoptera) in Kaziranga National Park, Assam, India, identified 14 species, including one potentially new to science. The study highlights the park's biodiversity, particularly its grasshopper and cricket diversity, which may serve as indicators for ecosystem health. Researchers conducted field surveys across different habitats within the park, collecting specimens and documenting their distribution. This work contributes to the understanding of Orthopteroids in a UNESCO World Heritage Site, emphasizing the need for conservation efforts to protect these often-overlooked but ecologically significant insects.

Prehistoric Timbuktu and its hinterland

Timbuktu — 2010 — WHE716889F383

A new study reveals that Timbuktu, renowned for its medieval significance as a Saharan caravan hub, also possessed distinct urban characteristics during its prehistoric phase before AD 1000. By mapping settlement patterns in the region's hinterland, researchers uncovered evidence of early urbanism and explored how shifts in the Sahara's climate influenced social dynamics. This approach combines spatial analysis with environmental data to reconstruct Timbuktu's past, offering insights into the resilience and adaptability of prehistoric communities in a rapidly changing landscape.

Preliminary Investigations on Odonata from the Lake Ohrid (Macedonia)

Natural and Cultural Heritage of the Ohrid region — 2010 — WHE1EAB9E459C

A preliminary investigation of Lake Ohrid revealed 17 species of odonates (dragonflies and damselflies) from 476 adult specimens collected across 21 stations in June 2009. This study is notable for addressing a significant data gap regarding this invertebrate group in the lake, which is otherwise well-documented in other European lakes. The findings indicate a relatively low species diversity, likely influenced by the lake's mountainous location and moderate climate. Enallagma cyathigerum was the most abundant species, thriving due to its association with elodeid plants like Potamegeton perfoliatus. Four of the identified species are endemic to Southern Europe, while the rest are widespread across the continent. This research provides foundational data for understanding odonate biodiversity in Lake Ohrid and highlights the ecological significance of its unique environment.

Protecting the Tangible and Intangible Heritage of Rani ki Vav: A Unique Subterranean Step Well in Gujarat

Rani-ki-Vav (the Queen’s Stepwell) at Patan, Gujarat — 2010 — WHE191BE6B6AF

Rani ki Vav, a monumental stepwell in Gujarat, India, exemplifies the architectural and cultural significance of subterranean structures from the 11th century. Constructed between 1063 and 1090 A.D., this brick-and-stone structure measures 64m long, 20m wide, and 27m deep, featuring intricate sculptures and a unique design with bracing structures to counteract lateral thrusts. The stepwell, once filled by floods in the 13th century, was restored by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) starting in 1960, preserving its authenticity and integrity through meticulous conservation efforts. Weathering tests on the sedimentary sandstone revealed insights into material degradation over centuries. Today, Rani ki Vav stands as a testament to advanced craftsmanship and technology, highlighting the cultural and historical importance of stepwells in arid regions.

Qualitative modelling of invasive species eradication on subantarctic Macquarie Island

Macquarie Island — 2010 — WHE4BB8F8E385

Simultaneous eradication of rabbits, rats, and mice from Macquarie Island is strongly supported by qualitative modelling due to the high likelihood of continued ecological impacts if only one or two species are targeted. The study predicts positive outcomes for native tall tussock vegetation and burrow- and surface-nesting seabirds but also highlights risks, such as potential failure in eradicating mice and unintended consequences from redpolls and starlings. This approach demonstrates that qualitative modelling can provide consistent insights even with significant ecosystem uncertainty, aiding strategic conservation planning.

Quantifying Bufo boreas connectivity in Yellowstone National Park with landscape genetics

Yellowstone National Park — 2010 — WHEAA47E61FFA

A novel application of Random Forests to landscape genetic data reveals that habitat permeability, topographic morphology, and temperature–moisture regimes significantly influence the connectivity of Bufo boreas (the Yellowstone toad) in Yellowstone National Park. The study found that growing-season precipitation, fire history (specifically the 1988 Yellowstone fires), cover, temperature, impervious surfaces like roads, and topographic complexity explain 56% of the variation in connectivity. Notably, habitat permeability operates on fine scales, while topographic and climatic factors affect connectivity across multiple scales, emphasizing the need for cross-scale analysis. Hierarchical analysis further showed that within-genetic clusters (identified using Structure), dispersal cover, precipitation, and impervious surfaces explained more variation (74%) than between clusters (45%), highlighting the importance of fine-scale ecological processes in shaping population structure.

Rainfall, fog and throughfall dynamics in a subtropical ridge top cloud forest, National Park of Garajonay (La Gomera, Canary Islands, Spain)

Garajonay National Park — 2010 — WHEBFCFA79876

In subtropical ridge-top cloud forests of La Gomera, Canary Islands, fog interception significantly enhances water inputs, contributing up to 6% of wind-corrected fog water as throughfall (TF), while rainfall-only events yield 87% TF. The study reveals that fog screens capture fog water more efficiently than forest canopies, and prior canopy wetting by rain increases TF during mixed precipitation events. Researchers corrected measurements for wind-induced losses and topographic effects, addressing gaps in previous studies. This highlights the critical role of fog in water balance in dry-season environments (5 months) with low annual rainfall (600–700 mm).

Reconstruction of the New Station Square in Berne, Switzerland

Old City of Berne — 2010 — WHE332909C459

The reconstruction of the New Station Square in Bern, Switzerland, not only addressed structural safety and durability concerns but also transformed the area into an appealing entrance adjacent to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old City. The 2007 project, covering 40,000 m², included dismantling parts of concrete slabs and columns while adding new elements and strengthening existing ones. A key innovation was the use of post-installed inclined bonded bars to reinforce the ceiling against punching shear, a method that enhanced structural integrity. Additionally, the reconstruction optimized local transportation stops, an underground shopping center, and pedestrian flow, creating a more functional and aesthetically pleasing urban space.

Relationship between soil moisture and vegetation in the Kairouan plain region of Tunisia using low spatial resolution satellite data

Kairouan — 2010 — WHE23468F9A21

A strong correlation exists between soil moisture and vegetation dynamics in the Kairouan plain, Tunisia. Researchers developed a semiempirical model using low-resolution satellite data (1991–2006) to predict normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) values based on soil moisture profiles from prior months during the rainy season (October–May). Validated against rainfall events and Global Soil Wetness Project data, this approach offers a simple yet effective tool for modeling vegetation in semiarid regions. The study highlights how satellite-derived moisture data can serve as a reliable indicator of vegetation development, advancing our understanding of water-vegetation interactions in arid ecosystems.

Resource Partitioning in Three Sympatric Species of Storks in Keoladeo National Park, India

Keoladeo National Park — 2010 — WHE360924E679

A study on resource partitioning among three sympatric stork species—Black-necked Stork, Painted Stork, and Asian Openbill—in Keoladeo National Park, India, revealed that their feeding success is significantly influenced by water depth and habitat use. The Black-necked Stork, a solitary generalist forager, relies on tactile and visual methods with a diet rich in fish, while the Painted Stork and Asian Openbill forage in groups, specializing in fish and snails (Pila spp.), respectively. Differences in prey composition were attributed to variations in feeding behavior and water levels at foraging sites. The study found that peck rate, steps, and success rate varied significantly among the species, with water level playing a crucial role in feeding success. These findings highlight the importance of fine-scale habitat management for the conservation of stork species.

Rural tourism as a factor of sustainable development: a case study of Sukur World Heritage Site in Adamawa State, Northeastern Nigeria

Sukur Cultural Landscape — 2010 — WHE882C1ADA09

Rural tourism can serve as a significant driver for sustainable development, particularly in regions with rich cultural landscapes. A case study of the Sukur Cultural Landscape, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Adamawa State, Northeastern Nigeria, demonstrates this potential. The research highlights that community participation and environmental protection are central to leveraging tourism for sustainable growth. It outlines strategies for developing the site while mitigating risks associated with such endeavors. These strategies aim to balance economic benefits with conservation efforts, ensuring long-term sustainability.

Searching for a Balance Between Community Needs and Conservation Policies in Historic Neighbourhoods of Istanbul

Historic Areas of Istanbul — 2010 — WHE3EBC559337

Recent regeneration efforts in Istanbul's historic neighbourhoods, such as Fetter and Balat (F&B), struggle to balance community needs with conservation policies. This study reveals that while sustainability and community-focused approaches are gaining traction among policymakers, their integration into urban conservation strategies remains limited. By analyzing the regeneration story of F&B, the research identifies key strengths and weaknesses in current conservation-led initiatives, offering critical insights for future sustainable urban development in historic areas. The findings suggest that achieving equilibrium between community aspirations and built environment preservation is essential for equitable and sustainable solutions.

Seasonal dynamics of airborne fungi in different caves of the Mogao Grottoes, Dunhuang, China

Mogao Caves — 2010 — WHE362CCEB57A

A study on the Mogao Caves reveals that visitor activity significantly influences airborne fungal concentrations and compositions. Researchers found higher levels of culturable fungi, particularly Cladosporium spp., Penicillium spp., Alternaria spp., and Aspergillus spp., in closed caves (CC) and outdoor areas (OD), with seasonal variations peaking in summer and autumn. Positive correlations were observed between fungal levels and temperature or visitor numbers, while negative correlations were noted with relative humidity and rainfall. This insight underscores the importance of considering human impact in conservation efforts for such heritage sites.

Seismic properties of the supra‐subduction mantle: Constraints from peridotite xenoliths from the Avacha volcano, southern Kamchatka

Volcanoes of Kamchatka — 2010 — WHE7EC57A1002

Research reveals that the supra-subduction mantle beneath the Avacha volcano, southern Kamchatka, exhibits distinct seismic properties shaped by low-stress deformation and fluid-driven processes. The study identifies an axial [100] olivine crystal preferred orientation (CPO) in peridotite xenoliths, which implies fast S-wave polarization aligned with flow direction in the mantle wedge. Additionally, orthopyroxene enrichment due to reactive percolation of hydrous melts or fluids lowers the Vp/Vs ratio but does not fully account for the exceptionally low ratios (<1.7) observed in other subduction zones like Japan and the Andes. The findings suggest that intrinsic anisotropy within these peridotites may explain such low Vp/Vs ratios, offering new insights into the seismic behavior of supra-subduction mantle environments.

Small state soft power strategies: virtual enlargement in the cases of the Vatican City State and Singapore

Vatican City — 2010 — WHE5547165A12

Small states can effectively expand their global influence through 'virtual enlargement' by leveraging soft power strategies, which include political economy potential, governance models, and diplomatic mediation. This study demonstrates that such approaches enable small states to transcend territorial limitations, as illustrated by the cases of Vatican City State and Singapore. The research employs a comparative analysis of these two distinct entities, highlighting their unique soft power dynamics and the mechanisms through which they project influence on an international scale.

Socio-cultural Impacts of Tourism on World Heritage Sites: Communities' Perspective of Lamu (Kenya) and Zanzibar Islands

Lamu Old Town — 2010 — WHE2A237656FB

Tourism at UNESCO World Heritage Sites often sparks conflicts between national marketing goals, local economic expectations, and conservation priorities. A study comparing Lamu Old Town (Kenya) and Zanzibar Stone Town reveals that while increased visitor numbers boost employment and income for local communities, site managers face challenges in balancing these benefits with the preservation of cultural integrity. The research highlights a tension between unrestricted tourism growth—driven by national image-building and economic incentives—and the need to mitigate negative impacts through visitor education and management strategies. By analyzing community perspectives, the study underscores the importance of inclusive planning and ownership in sustainable heritage conservation.

Solid Waste and Water Quality Management Models for Sagarmatha National Park and Buffer Zone, Nepal

Sagarmatha National Park — 2010 — WHED85BE3667B

Most solid waste in Sagarmatha National Park and its Buffer Zone is organic, paper, or minor reused material, but non-degradable waste like glass, metal, and plastic poses significant environmental risks due to improper disposal methods such as burning or open dumps. These practices, along with anthropogenic activities and poor sanitation infrastructure, contribute to water contamination, particularly in flood-prone areas near watercourses. The study developed participatory consensus-building models to simulate management scenarios, identifying potential solutions for waste and water quality issues. These findings offer insights applicable to other protected mountain landscapes facing similar challenges due to population growth, changing consumption patterns, and tourism.