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Alpine natural heritage sites hold significant value due to their unique global resources. Studying land cover changes in these areas is crucial for maintaining and preserving multiple their values. This study takes Kalajun-Kuerdening, one of the components of Xinjiang Tianshan World Natural Heritage Site, as an example to analyze land cover changes and their driving factors in alpine heritage sites. Highlights include: (1) Between 1994 and 2023, Forest and Grassland increased by 55.96 km2 and 18.16 km2, with notable forest growth from 2007 to 2017. Trends in Forest changes align with forest protection policies, and a substantial amount of Bareland converted to Grassland indicates an increase in vegetation cover. (2) Elevation, precipitation, temperature, and evapotranspiration are key drivers of land cover changes, as validated by Random Forest algorithm and Geodetector model. (3) Favorable conditions for Grassland to Forest transition include annual precipitation between 275 and 375 mm, annual temperature between −2 and 3 °C, annual evapotranspiration between 580 and 750 mm, elevation between 1800 and 2600 m, and aspect between 0 to 110° and 220 to 259.9°. Continuous monitoring of land cover changes and their driving factors in mountain heritage sites contributes to the protection of the ecological environment and provides data and information support for addressing climate change, resource management, and policy making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was focused on a specific blue‒green pigment applied on the edges of the green blocks of wall paintings in the Kizil Grottoes, the earliest Buddhist cave complex in China containing many wall paintings. Based on in situ portable XRF analyses, μ-Raman spectroscope, elemental analysis (SEM–EDS and EPMA-WDS) and μ-XRPD analyses, the pigment was proven to be lavendulan [NaCaCu5(AsO4)4Cl·5H2O], which has not been reported in ancient wall painting studies before. Lavendulan was found to coexist with atacamite [Cu2(OH)3Cl] in some of the samples in the study and showed a nanoneedle-like morphology. Further investigations of lavendulan revealed that it was probably not originally used as a pigment but was generated by the transformation of atacamite under the influence of arsenates [As(V)] and Na+. This phenomenon and the related mechanism were discovered in this study and are discussed in this paper. As an important cultural heritage site in the Silk Road, the Route Network of the Chang'an-Tianshan Corridor and the Kizil Grottoes are listed as UNESCO World and Natural Heritage sites. The pigment types and preservation conditions of wall paintings are similar to those of many wall paintings found along the Silk Road, and further attention should be given to this discolouration mechanism for heritage site conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The surrounding environment of architectural heritage sites is integral to cultural heritage protection; plant landscapes play crucial roles in them. Controlling plant spaces and appearances is essential for preserving plant landscapes. A World Cultural Heritage Site, the Summer Palace has undergone multiple changes since the 1860s; restoring and protecting plant landscapes has been an ongoing research focus. However, data accuracy limitations have hindered analyses of the overall spatial characteristics of historical gardens. Here, the historical dynamics and unique landscape features of plants on the front hill of Longevity Hill (FLH) are explored, and conservation and renewal strategies are proposed. Geographic information system (GIS) and WSL Monoplotting Tool are used to identify historical plant spaces. Plant space types are classified, and their landscape characteristics are analyzed. On the basis of historical events, the historical plant spaces on the FLH can be divided into two major categories and six subcategories. The vegetation retention area (south side) was less affected, and the plant landscape along Kunming Lake was the most well-preserved. However, the vegetation-damaged area (north side) was impacted more in the western part than in the eastern part, with notable changes in spatial landscape characteristics, particularly regarding forest function, morphology, and structure. Strategies are proposed for reducing human intervention and adjusting retention areas; furthermore, historical images and spatial grading in damaged areas can be used to suggest landscape adjustment and restoration strategies. This study introduces a method for analyzing the historical characteristics of plant landscapes over time that can be used to protect cultural heritage sites worldwide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Yuzhen Palace in Wudang Mountain, established in the 10th year of the Yongle reign of the Ming dynasty (1412 AD), is a significant heritage site within the ancient architectural complex of Wudang Mountain, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Despite being entirely relocated, the original paintings on the wooden beams of the Dragon and Tiger Hall exhibit clear characteristics of early Ming dynasty style, potentially being the only surviving wooden painted structures from the Ming dynasty in Wudang Mountain. To protect these valuable cultural relics and provide accurate information regarding the construction period of the paintings, this study sampled the paintings from the central and western sections of the front eaves in the Dragon and Tiger Hall. Using optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Raman spectroscopy, and infrared spectroscopy, the study analyzed the stylistic features, material composition, and craftsmanship of the paintings. The results indicate that the paintings are typical official Xuanzi paintings from the early Ming dynasty, consistent with the style of the Golden Roof in Taihe Palace, Wudang Mountain. The pigments used are all natural minerals: azurite (2CuCO3·Cu(OH)2) for blue, malachite (CuCO3·Cu(OH)2) for green, and vermilion (HgS) and hematite (Fe2O3) for red, reflecting typical early Ming dynasty characteristics. The craftsmanship shows that the paintings were applied directly onto the wooden components without a ground layer, using ink lines to outline the images, and a thin ground layer made of tung oil mixed with lime was applied under the oil coating. This study provides scientific material analysis and data support for the subsequent protection and restoration of the Yuzhen Palace architectural complex, ensuring the preservation of these historically and artistically significant relics for future generations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traditional Chinese settlements (TCSs) embody millennia of human and cultural history, with the core culture serving as their essence. However, any damage incurred by these TCSs can result in the loss of core culture. In the era of China's digital transformation, there has recently been a significant push toward digital reforms within TCSs. Thus, this paper introduces a traditional settlement digitalization (TSD) framework with a specific focus on enhancing the preservation of TCS landscape gene through the perspective of landscape gene information chain theory. This research uses the Nanxun traditional settlement (TS), Huzhou, Zhejiang, China, the first TS listed as a World Cultural Heritage Site in China, as a case study, extracting and identifying the area landscape gene and digital visualization status. This article identifies the landscape gene information chain of the Nanxun TS and redesigns its digital visualization and application scheme under the TSD framework. This study reveals the notion of a digital landscape gene characterized by four key attributes: identical, interactive, immersive, and intelligent. The results of this study will help guide the sustainable protection, application and planning of the Nanxun TS and promote the study of other sections of landscape gene theory. This research not only contributes to the development of landscape gene information chain theory but also provides guidance for the digital transformation of other TCSs and cultural heritage sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Landscape stability is a paramount concern within the field of landscape ecology. Indices of landscape patterns not only facilitate an effective analysis of land use transformations but also delve into the mechanisms of landscape disturbances across various spatial and temporal dimensions. Utilizing land use data spanning from 2014 to 2022 for the Shibing and Libo-Huanjiang South China Karst (SCK) World Heritage Sites (WHSs), this study delves into the landscape dynamics of these areas over the past 8 years. This investigation employs landscape pattern indices and a moving window technique to construct a landscape stability evaluation model, incorporating indices such as the Contagion Index, Patch Density, and Total Edge Contrast. Moreover, the study employs Moran's I, a spatial autocorrelation index, to scrutinize the shifts in geographical heterogeneity of landscape stability within the said period. The findings reveal: (1) Between 2014 and 2022, the landscape patterns of the Shibing and Libo-Huanjiang WHSs have undergone significant transformations, with Woodland emerging as the predominant landscape type and its area exhibiting an upward trend in recent years. (2) The level of fragmentation within the research area has decreased, landscape diversity has diminished, and the aggregation index has risen, according to the landscape pattern indices from 2014 to 2022, indicating that conservation measures have significantly influenced the evolution of landscape patterns. (3) Throughout most of the study period, landscape stability predominantly remained at a relatively stable level, albeit with noticeable fluctuations in years heavily impacted by human activities. (4) The areas of high-high agglomeration and the hotspots of the heritage sites were primarily concentrated within the core zones of these sites, suggesting focused areas of conservation and landscape integrity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Measuring the sociocultural productivity of heritage sites remains an ongoing issue for international organizations concerned with the conservation and promotion of traditional sites. The productivity of these locations is not only affected by tangible elements but also by intangible factors, such as the emotions generated by the experiences. For this purpose, 597 employees of hotels in these historical locations who had visited one of the 14 heritage sites in Spain assessed what role emotions play in this contribution. The methodology used was the application of structural equations. Several conclusions have been drawn utilizing the SmartPLS 4 software. The first is that the generation of positive emotions comes exclusively from cultural and historical dynamization and not from technological advances or an eagerness to learn. The second is that both the application of technological advances and cultural dynamization have a direct impact on productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since the onset of conflict in Syria in 2011, several heritage sites have suffered partial or complete destruction. The ancient city of Palmyra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1980, was placed on the List of World Heritage in Danger in 2013, alongside five other Syrian heritage sites. Between 2015 and 2017, Palmyra experienced the loss of nearly 40% of its historic buildings and landmarks. The site's remote location and ongoing armed conflict pose additional challenges in accessing and preserving it. This paper introduces an interactive online platform employing 360° media to document and disseminate information about the world heritage site of Palmyra. The platform contributes to the safeguarding process of Palmyra, facilitating public engagement and interaction with the site. It also has potential applications for other sites in Syria and beyond. The platform allows users to explore both archival and current information of damaged historical monuments and buildings, revealing their layered histories before and after demolition. Employing interactive 360° media, similar to applications like Google Street View, the platform offers a reality-based digital environment. Users can virtually move into different buildings or follow specific pathways within the site, accessing archival information and documentation about particular monuments and buildings along their journey. This project serves as a unique informational resource for decision-makers and policy planners, aiding in the understanding of the site and the development of relevant strategies and recommendations. It also proves beneficial as an educational tool. The collective understanding fostered by this platform is expected to positively influence post-conflict restoration and reconstruction plans, making it an invaluable asset for research and educational purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

World Heritage sites face many challenges that affect the quality of life (QOL), it is thus empirical that more research studies shed light upon this important topic. This research examines the most important problems of Egyptian World Heritage Sites, with a focus on the Memphis site due to its outstanding universal value (OUV) and the posed threats that may affect its global value. The necessity of maintaining world heritage sites in accordance with UNESCO's guidelines has recently come to the state's attention so a supreme committee was formed, according to a presidential decree. Thus, this paper aims to present an applied strategy for managing Memphis site in an integrated manner to contribute to raising the QOL indicators while maintaining the OUV of the site through a multiphase research approach; first the theoretical approach, where a literature review and the basic concepts; second, an empirical desk-based literature review of similar sites. This in turn yielded quantitative and qualitative results and allowed for the measurement of the link between QOL and heritage sites management. Then a third phase which consisted of devising an applicable strategy management plan for Memphis site. The strategy has been proposed in light of the country's vision, strategy for sustainable development: Egypt vision 2030, and the strategic plan for Greater Cairo Region 2050. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

India, one of the most dynamic ancient civilizations, possesses a multitude of historical artifacts, with 37 of its notable architectural structures recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Yet, the ever-changing climate, especially air pollution, expedites the natural deterioration of historic sites and diminishes their aesthetic appeal, causing socio-economic damage. With this in mind, the current study aims to offer a logical scientific foundation for the implications of air pollution, seasonal shifts, and COVID-19 on 14 significant historical places in India during the year 2019-20. Delhi, among the cities most severely affected by atmospheric pollution, recorded an alarming air quality index (AQI) of 102–141, which can intensify the risk of cultural sites to corrode and deteriorate. Analysis reveals that the winter season had elevated levels of NO2 and particle pollution (PM2.5, PM10), whereas summer had the higher levels of O3. Throughout the 5-month lockdown period, ozone levels exhibited an elevation, contrasting with the reduction observed in other air parameters. Notably, there was a substantial 70% decrease in particulate matter concentration, which had previously remained stable over the course of the year. Variations in geographic locales and anthropogenic influences contribute significantly to the dose-response statistics, revealing an unprecedented elevation in corrosion risks to historical limestone and sandstone structures across target sites. Moreover, the research addresses available Governmental initiatives, and effective strategies designed to safeguard heritage sites against the corrosion and material degradation, offering a comprehensive exploration of protective measures. Thereby, the current research is centred on establishing a foundational understanding of the impact of air pollution on cultural heritage, utilizing a comparison to the year with the lowest air pollution levels, which can aid policymakers in enhancing risk management and implementing a robust national mandate for the preservation of cultural heritage sites against corrosion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the built heritage studies, the intricate web of social and selective processes that define heritage is evident. These processes are, in many cases, intertwined with the notion of scale, examplified through the production of heritage sites at the local, national, and transnational scales. While heritage and geography scholars have articulated the role played by scale in heritage-making and argue against a rigid, fixed, and hierarchical understanding of scale, they highlight the constant reproduction of scale. There is, so far, limited explanation of how the perception of scale gets reproduced and how crucial actors manipulate scalar power and resources for heritage making and the reproduction of scale. To fill this gap, this paper delves into mainland China's heritage-making, using the southern Anhui historical villages as an example. Based on intensive 5-month field research, this paper has three findings: 1) The nomination process for a World Heritage Site is notably influenced by politics and selectivity; 2) Diverse stakeholders are pivotal in shaping heritage narratives; 3) Individual contributions to heritage creation directly interact with, and subsequently reshape, 'scale', an entity that is simultaneously discursive and tangible. By integrating the notion of 'scale' into heritage discussions, we illuminate two concurrent processes: creating hierarchies through rule assimilation by interpreting the UNESCO standard internally and evolving socio-spatial dynamics via the manifestation of individual agency with resource manipulation, scale jumping, and reproduction of scale. This approach aligns with the material orientation in human geography and repositions 'scale'. Here, it's not just an epistemological framework but also a tangible force that steers individual perceptions and actions and yields measurable material impacts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

World Heritage serial properties are groupings of several heritage component parts that share common themes and values. This paper examines how these serial properties, as well as their individual component parts, are influenced by serial interpretive dynamic, and how this dynamic affects on-site interpretation. We demonstrate these issues through the Israeli serial property inscription of the Biblical Tels – Megiddo, Hazor, Beer-Sheba (2005). We chart the revisions along the inscription process to point out the presence of an interpretive dynamic. We describe interpretive dynamic as the effect of the justifications of the nomination over heritage significance and interpretation, both within the realm of World Heritage and in each heritage property locally. This paper concludes that interpretive dynamic is an inevitable part of the serial process. We argue that the dynamic represents a gap between the frequent use of series as an inscription catalyst and their essence as value-oriented constructs. Considering this, we criticise the overuse of serial inscriptions and call for a revised definition that re-addresses the important place of interpretation in this process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: Effective water governance is essential for sustainable management of water resources, particularly within river basins where diverse stakeholders intersect.Cultural evolution along these river systems has profoundly influenced water governance practices.UNESCO heritage sites and intangible cultural heritage play a pivotal role in preserving traditional knowledge and practices related to water management.By recognizing and learning from UNESCO sites, we can enhance contemporary water governance strategies.As water experts, we recognize that the preservation of cultural heritage is inseparable from effective water governance. Let us continue to celebrate and protect these invaluable resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clarifying the spatial and temporal evolution characteristics of the ecological environment quality of World Heritage Karst Sites (WHKSs) and its response to different rocky desertification grades at spatial scales is crucial for the monitoring and protection of WHKSs as well as the implementation of ecological and environmental policies in karst regions. The ecological evaluation model of Remote Sensing Ecological Index (RSEI) was used to evaluate the ecological environment of Libo–Huanjiang World Heritage Karst site and Shibing World Heritage Karst site, and then the spatial autocorrelation and geo-detection model was used to further analyze the ecological environment, and final spatial overlay of RSEI and rocky desertification by year to analyze the linkage relationship between RSEI and rocky desertification. The results showed that (1) in the three-phase ecological environmental quality evaluation of the two heritage sites, the RSEI in 2010, 2016, and 2022 reached 0.60, 0.67, and 0.64 for the Libo–Huanjiang heritage site, and RSEI in 2010, 2016, and 2022 for the Shibing heritage site reached 0.60, 0.74, and 0.70, respectively; (2) the RSEI of both heritage sites show a gradually increasing positive spatial correlation, and has significant spatial aggregation characteristics, with both heritage sites dominated by the high-high and low-low spatial aggregation categories; (3) both heritage sites have the highest degree of explanation of changes in ecological quality by the NDBSI factor, indicating that this factor plays a key role in changes in ecological quality at heritage sites; (4) the response of the RSEI mean value of Libo–Huanjiang in each grade of rocky desertification area is, from high to low, no rocky desertification, non-karst, potential rocky desertification, mild rocky desertification, moderate rocky desertification, intensive rocky desertification, and extreme intensity rocky desertification, and the response of the RSEI mean value of Shibing is, from high to low, non-karst, no rocky desertification, potential rocky desertification, mild rocky desertification, and moderate rocky desertification. The spatial superposition analysis of the RSEI index and rocky desertification index can quantitatively study the changing status of the ecological environment in different rocky desertification areas, and the results of the study can provide theoretical references for the environmental monitoring and the prevention and control of rocky desertification in the karst areas and WHKSs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The M'Zab Valley, located in Ghardaïa in southern Algeria, was classified by UNESCO as a world heritage site in 1982. The M'Zab valley has benefited from numerous restoration, rehabilitation, and consolidation projects to ensure the preservation of its monuments and historical sites. This article focuses on social sustainability, a key element of sustainable development and a crucial component of cultural heritage protection. The study aims to identify and assess social sustainability in two fortified villages (Ksour) in the M'Zab Valley. The research uses the case study method in the M'Zab valley's unique social context, taking into account several indicators: social networking, safety, and security, sense of attachment, quality of the home, and quality of life, measured through a survey of 200 households. Results show that the indicator that locals value most is "quality of housing", whereas "participation" is less significant. Only 5.0% of residents of Al-Atteuf and 7.0% of those in Beni-Isguen express a need to leave or change residences. This article also contributes to highlighting the Mozabite community's advantages and challenges, especially after the social and cultural changes that society has undergone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• This study investigates factors with both beneficial and harmful qualities for Cultural World Heritage Sites in Europe and North America. • Information employed originates from the UNESCO Periodic Report II and the heritage database. • Factors related to tourism and transportation most often perceived as both beneficial and harmful by site managers. • Bivariate Probit estimations control for site characteristics and location of site. • Estimations reveal that managers are mainly ambivalent to tourism/visitors/recreation, interpretive and sightseeing facilities as well as to ground transport infrastructure. The aim of this study is to investigate factors with both beneficial and harmful qualities for Cultural World Heritage Sites. Particular but not exclusive attention is given to aspects relating to tourism and infrastructure. Data from the World Heritage List for North America and Europe, linked to the 2014 UNESCO Periodic Report II, are employed for the analysis. A simultaneous Bivariate Probit model estimation is carried out on the 30,954 observations and 402 Heritage Sites. World Heritage managers assess that certain factors are both beneficial and harmful for their sites. These contradictory perceptions appear most commonly in relation to tourism/visitors/recreation (28% of the sites), ground transport infrastructure (16%) and to the Society's valuing of heritage (12%). Besides this, ambivalent perceptions are also identified for housing, commercial development, land conversion, forestry/timber production and renewable energy facilities, although to a lesser extent. Estimation results reveal that the highest degree of ambivalence occurs in relation to tourism/visitors/recreation, interpretive and sightseeing facilities and ground transport infrastructure when location and specific site characteristics are controlled for. Thus, the results coincide only to some extent with the descriptive statistics. Compared to other groups of Cultural World Heritage Sites (cultural landscapes, religious sites and other sites) managers of cities have a significantly lower probability of perceiving the different factors as harmful. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The earthquakes that occurred in our country on February 6, 2023, significantly damaged and destroyed cultural and historical assets. The Habib-i Nejjar Mosque in Antakya and other important historical sites suffered significant damage. This study provides a comprehensive account of the post-earthquake efforts carried out by volunteers from various disciplines, including archaeology, cartography, space sciences, and architecture, using social media platforms. The volunteers created an extensive database for cultural and archaeological sites in all 11 provinces that were declared disaster zones. This database made it easier to conduct a thorough evaluation of the damage. The database was augmented with surface displacement data, enabling an analysis of damage levels with the exactitude facilitated by the gathered information. The utilization of the Advanced Rapid Imaging and Analysis (ARIA) maps was pivotal in this study. The maps, created through partnerships between NASA and different space agencies, offer intricate satellite imagery and analysis of surface displacement. This is essential for evaluating the effects of earthquakes on cultural heritage sites. The utilization of ARIA maps in this study facilitated an accurate assessment of the seismic impact on cultural and historical resources. Additionally, Sentinel 1 images are used to generate displacement maps with the use of the LICSAR tool and the SBAS method. The study examined the state of about 1500 cultural heritage sites in 11 provinces in the aftermath of the earthquake. The report incorporated data from media coverage and input from relevant parties present at the scene, providing a thorough assessment of the situation following the disaster. For instance, the research revealed substantial shifts at prominent locations, like the UNESCO World Heritage site of Arslantepe in Malatya. This site experienced a displacement of over one meter towards the south and 75 cm towards the west, along with a subsidence of approximately 10 cm in the surrounding area. Furthermore, the study presented a visual representation that depicted the quantity of impaired cultural heritage sites in every province, providing a comprehensive evaluation of the impacted cultural and archaeological resources. This comprehensive strategy not only emphasized the magnitude of harm to cultural heritage but also emphasized the significance of interdisciplinary cooperation in disaster response and heritage preservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main objective of this study is to explore the dynamics of heritage tourism in Oud Batavia, the Old City of Jakarta, specifically focusing on perceived price, perceived authenticity and perceived value, and how they influence tourist satisfaction and revisit intentions. By using a quantitative design, data was collected from 406 valid responses through a questionnaire distributed in the Old City. The findings confirmed positive and significant relationships highlighting the importance of preserving historical buildings and emphasizing the role of perceived factors in enhancing the overall tourist experience. The study contributes valuable insights for stakeholders, urging the Jakarta city government and the Ministry of Tourism to focus on preserving cultural heritage buildings and employ adaptive reuse strategies to increase tourist visits. The limitations of the study include its exclusive focus on domestic tourists in the Old City of Jakarta, suggesting avenues for future research to explore broader topics such as city branding and foreign tourist perspectives. The study concludes with recommendations for strategies to commercialize historical tourist destinations and a call for United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization recognition of the Old City as a world historical heritage site. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Changes in the provisions of heritage protection significantly change the heritage policy and the conditions of and requirements for the emergence of new architecture on heritage sites. In order to analyze the conditions of and the possibilities for the insertion of new architecture and the reuse of existing buildings and their reconstruction iii their historical environment, as well as the applicable requirements, restrictions and recommendations, an analysis of national and international legal documents was carried out, delving into two World Heritage Sites in Lithuania: The Vilnius Historic Center and the Curonian Spit. The article discusses the key international and national legal documents regulating the aspects of the emergence of new architecture in protected territories, highlighting the most significant principles of the legal regulation of the UNESCO World Heritage sites in Lithuania, which define the architectural, urbanistic, and aesthetic expression of buildings of contemporary architecture (new and reconstructed) in these territories. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Natural World Heritage site (NWH) has a dual role of protection and utilization. The buffer zone of the South China Karst (SCK) World Heritage (WH) site is scattered with village dwellings, which adds pressure to preserve the outstanding universal value (OUV) and integrity protection of the WH site. The development of agroforestry is an essential means to maintain rural livelihoods, protect the ecological environment, and realize the protection and development of the heritage site. Studying the synergy and regulation of the heritage site integrity protection and the buffer zone agroforestry development is essential. This study takes the Shibing and Libo–Huanjiang karst WH as the study areas and administrative villages as the evaluation unit. From 2020 to 2023, through data methods such as remote sensing data interpretation, information data survey and collection, comprehensive index analysis, coupling coordination degree model, and GIS spatial analysis, a systematic study was conducted on the basic frontier research, synergy relationship, and regulation of the heritage site integrity protection and the buffer zone agroforestry development. The results demonstrate that the Shibing and Libo–Huanjiang karst WH sites integrity protection and agroforestry development in the buffer zone have a high coupling degree and a good coupling coordination relationship. This reveals that the heritage site integrity protection and the buffer zone agroforestry development are an interconnected and mutually influential whole, which the synergistic relationship between them is developing in a positive direction; The buffer zone agroforestry development lags behind the heritage site integrity protection, based on which proposed the regulatory measures for the synergy development of the heritage site integrity protection and agroforestry development in the buffer zone. The findings in this study provide references for the synergies development of the WH karst site integrity protection and agroforestry development in the buffer zone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For a number of years, heritage resources have suffered the negative effects of tourist pressure. Overtourism has been generating a wide-ranging debate on this issue. This work focuses on the strategies and measures adopted to address overtourism during the last 30 years at heritage attractions, which are much less studied than urban heritage centres. Specifically, it analyses measures relating to the management of site capacities based on the concept of tourist carrying capacity, using content analysis as a methodology. We have used the Alhambra in Granada as a case study as one of the most visited Spanish World Heritage Sites. The results obtained reflect a strong consensus on the need to introduce measures to restrict tourist activity, although these measures imply a great effort in terms of management and tend to be taken advantage of by some stakeholders for their own benefit. The extensive time frame of the measures adopted allows us to reflect on the possibilities and limitations of dealing with overtourism by using capacity management strategies and to extract useful conclusions for other heritage sites with similar problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Protected areas (PA) are one of the primary tools for conserving and protecting biodiversity, but their goals have evolved overtime beyond nature conservation to include supporting human communities within and adjacent to the PA. UNESCO World Heritage Sites (WHS) offer a unique perspective on the success of PAs as they fall under three categories, cultural, natural, and mixed heritage sites. The nature of these categories encapsulates the inclusion of human communities in the goals of the WHS. To understand the impact and relationship the WHS has with its surrounding landscape, we assessed changes in three indicators, land use and land cover (LULC), human footprint (HF), and forest landscape integrity index (FLII), across three spatial scales, 1, 10, 100 km from the WHS boundary. We found that there is a conservation spillover effect at least within 1 km of the WHS boundary. In this buffer zone, HF was low and FLII was high. FLII was lower and HF was higher at larger spatial scales. The relationship between the WHS and its surrounding landscape is one reason to support the WHS network, however, management of PAs should be more explicit about this relationship as well as relationships between individual PAs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the book "Sultanahmet, Istanbul's historic peninsula: musealization and urban conservation" by Pinar Aykaç, the author explores the transformation of the Sultanahmet district in Istanbul into a tourist destination. Aykaç examines the concept of "musealization" and its application to historic districts, arguing that entire areas are being converted into objects of touristic consumption. The book covers the historical development of Sultanahmet, the secularization efforts during the Republican period, changes in urban management and planning, the transformation into a global heritage site, and the impact of the Justice and Development Party's rule since 2002. Aykaç's work provides a comprehensive analysis of the interplay between power dynamics and historic urban spaces, offering historical insights into the consequences of musealization. [Extracted from the article]

On 26 April 2017, Mexico formally adopted the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda to link the national government to local governments, the private sector, civil society and academia. The restoration of heritage residential buildings (recovery programme) and the construction of new residential buildings aim to create a diversified environment for populations at different economic levels. However, the restoration programme faces conservation challenges. Given this context, this paper presents the results of in-depth, semi-structured interviews conducted with stakeholders in Mexico's heritage and energy sectors. The duration of each interview was approximately two hours, with 52,372 total interview words. The paper identifies prevailing opinions regarding prioritising historical values, energy efficiency, historic buildings and users concerning Mexico City's Historical Centre, a World Heritage Site needing a more appropriate sustainable development plan. Using grounded theory and thematic analysis, the interview data were analysed based on the interrelationship between thermal comfort, energy efficiency and heritage conservation changes over time. The results of this research will strengthen our understanding of the interventions and processes involved in managing and living in this World Heritage Site and its future impacts on buildings. The approach also underscores the importance of how stakeholders prioritise different values in making energy efficiency-promoting decisions and enhances awareness of the decision-making process and actions adopted by heritage building users. Thus, understanding the dynamic interrelationship between values, users and energy could improve the sustainable management of heritage sites and future development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a holistic guiding methodology for the development of a geospatial tool to be used for the documentation, planning, smart management and dissemination of a country's network of historic hiking trails. To deal with the challenges and to ensure the sustainability of a historic site, geospatial documentation merging authoritative and crowdsourced data and a WebGIS-based spatial analysis is necessary. Geospatial data collection should include professional field surveys, professional and crowdsourced photographic documentation and video recording of the existing historic walking/hiking trails. A geodatabase, structured using relational model technology, including vector spatial entities (feature classes), mosaics (raster) and tabulated data (geodatabase tables), should be developed on a commercial or open platform; in this case, the ArcGIS Pro is used. Entities with embedded descriptive information and metadata for the technical, legal, historical, and administrative context may then be created. An object-oriented data model is needed to connect spatial and descriptive information. Spatial and descriptive queries or correlations between attribute fields of spatial entities must be enabled for specialized information retrieval by either experts or users. Next, a web GIS application to present the developed geodatabase in a visually appealing and informative way is created. It should integrate 2D maps with built-in tools and should support advanced functionalities, such as: (i) pop-ups that display brief information and images about specific spots along the trails; (ii) dynamic visualization of the vertical profile of each trail; (iii) multimedia information about landmarks, natural features and scenic viewpoints. Finally, the tool includes a feedback service and continuous efficiency monitoring and assessment, and enables adjustments, if and where needed. The tool is tested and used for 10 historical walking/hiking trails of the archaeological and Holy Site of Meteora, Central Greece. This is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The network, with a total length of 35 km, leads to six monasteries, still active since the 12th century, passing by gigantic rocks and beautiful natural landscapes. The site is famous globally and the greater area is continuously overcrowded with visitors. The tool is anticipated to be used for the documentation and management of the whole walking/hiking historic trail network of Greece in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Archaeological and historical sites, including World Heritage Sites, archaeological sites, castles, fortresses, towers, bridges, necropolises, and ruins, which are a shared legacy of humanity, are at risk of inundation due to sea level rise resulting from global climate change and increased carbon emissions, much like settlements, transportation systems, agricultural areas, and animal habitats. These locations are significant hot spots for connecting the past to the present regarding human history. Throughout history, settlements have been established around wetlands and shorelines. For this reason, the most significant danger threatening coastal archaeological and historical sites is the risk of inundation due to sea level rise. Creating an inundation risk map could be beneficial for planning and conservation studies due to reasons such as the long duration of archaeological studies, lack of a qualified workforce, and budget constraints. To this end, inundation risk maps were created for five different scenarios with risk classes varying from very high to very low, considering global and local sea level rise predictions. The study evaluated 464 historic areas located on the Eastern Mediterranean coasts of Türkiye and Greece. The findings indicate that a significant number of archaeological and historical sites, such as Knidos and Delos, will be inundated even in the lowest sea level rise scenarios. According to the inundation risk map, 34 sites are at very high risk, 21 at high risk, 25 at medium risk, 26 at low risk, and 41 at very low risk of inundation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study highlights the significance of combining imaging and laser scanning techniques to enrich point clouds used for reliable documentation and Heritage Building Information Modeling (HBIM). The fusion-based approach was used to document Al Ula Heritage site in Saudi Arabia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with well-preserved tombs from the first century BC. The HBIM parametric modeling process requires a detailed survey to collect all geometric data. Although terrestrial laser scanners (TLS) are an efficient tool for 3D recording of heritage scenes in a short period of time, the data resolution is insufficient for identifying and evaluating the spatial distribution of surface weathering forms. Furthermore, combining scans collected at different times may pose difficulties in recording the texture. These issues have an impact on the subsequent 3D modeling phase as well as the efficiency of interpreting and tracing surface features in the Scan-to-BIM process. The proposed workflow using imagery data to enhance both the geometry and coloring of laser point clouds. In addition to texture mapping, the high-resolution imagery is used to densify the laser data using dense image matching, allowing for a clear reading of the surface features, and serving as a useful tool to identify the type, extent, and severity of façade damage. TLS and imagery data were collected separately, with images taken at the best time and location for realistically recording of surface details. Finally, the captured images are orthorectified by TLS geometric information and used for HBIM texturing to provide realistic decay mapping. The results showed that the combination of TLS and photogrammetry allowed for the efficient collection of 3D data, which improved tracing and digitizing HBIM with complete mapping information. The research findings will be greatly useful in the management and planning of historic building conservation and restoration projects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

"The World of Stonehenge" is a book that accompanies an exhibition at the British Museum and the State Museum of Prehistory in Germany. The book provides a readable narrative about the developments in prehistoric Europe, focusing on artifacts from certain locations. It explores themes such as journeys and movement, scientific techniques, relationships between artifacts and society, and the significance of both rare and mundane objects. While there are some errors and omissions in the book, it is still highly recommended for those interested in Stonehenge and the Neolithic and Bronze Age periods in northwest Europe. [Extracted from the article]

Vineyard landscapes are an excellent example of cultural landscapes that represent the interactions between nature and culture, providing many of them with a unique heritage value. This study takes a critical approach to the nomination processes of World Heritage vineyard landscapes, focusing on the practical application of the eligibility criteria and the key concepts of Outstanding Universal Value (OUV), authenticity and integrity. A detailed comparative study of the nine specific vineyard cultural landscapes included in the World Heritage List has been conducted based on three primary sources: the Nomination Files, the Advisory Bodies Evaluations and the minutes of the World Heritage Committee meetings with the decisions to inscribe or not to inscribe the sites. A systematic analysis of the many recommendations issued by ICOMOS to the States Parties and their comparison with the Committee's decisions has provided insight into the evolution of perspectives. In turn, these have given rise to a discussion regarding several aspects: inscription categories, names and surface areas of the properties, duration of the process, OUV and attributes that embody said value, authenticity and integrity, boundaries and management plans. Thus, this paper will shine a light on the difficult subject of identifying outstanding heritage specificities and linking OUV to the territorial conservation and management of living rural landscapes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper is to contribute to the scientific literature in the field of tourism in Latin America (Sucre, Bolivia was named a World Heritage Site (WHS) by UNESCO). This study analyses the relevance of the cultural motivation and emotional experience of the tourist to positively influence the image or the perceived value of the heritage site visited. The research shall also analyse other relationships, such as the positive effect of the perceived value on the loyalty of tourists and the influence of the visitor's place of origin as a moderating variable in the formation of the image and loyalty to the destination. The analysis was performed by means of structural equation models (SEMs). The data were extracted through fieldwork consisting of interviews with visitors to the city. The results of the research revealed that the perceived value of a heritage destination not only depends on the functional and tangible aspects of the attributes but also on the emotional experience and cultural interest regarding the heritage site visited. Similarly, there is evidence of a relationship between perceived value and a loyal attitude and that it is moderated by the origin of the tourist, this being a great influence in the case of the domestic tourist. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Architectus is the property of Oficyna Wydawnicza Politechniki Wroclawskiej and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Tourism Tribune / Lvyou Xuekan is the property of Tourism Institute of Beijing Union University and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The render layer plays an essential role in the longevity of rammed earth constructions. A physicochemical analysis of the renders of the historical buildings of Fujian Tulou, a World Heritage site in Fujian, China, is presented in this paper to provide technical data related to the protection and restoration of this historical site. After a site investigation, the physical and chemical characteristics of the render layer were studied by means of particle-size analysis, unconfined compressive strength analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The results obtained in the experimental study were analyzed and compared with those gathered from the literature, leading to the establishment of useful conclusions for the formulation of restoration mortars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper explores the role of tourism demand and cultural World Heritage Sites on the regional economic resilience among European Union countries. The results pinpoint to the importance of cultural World Heritage Sites in keeping the regional economic resilience. The results on tourism demand are not unambiguous—domestic tourist arrivals play a significantly positive role while inbound tourist arrivals negatively affect regional economic resilience. Cultural tourism, defined as the joint effect of tourism and cultural sites, decreases the negative effect of inbound tourism, pinpointing that the cultural sites play an essential role in attracting inbound tourists in the less prosperous periods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current discussion on the limitation factors of community participation in tour‐ ism development is less in-depth analysis from the cultural perspective. Therefore, based on the analysis framework of cultural limitation, this study applies qualitative research method to study dependent communities in Shibing karst world natural heritage site. The conclusions are as follows: (1) Community participation in tourism depending the scenic area is not completely linear development. The tourism development of communities around the Shibing karst heritage site in recent 30 years has experienced three stages from the "free-ride" participation, the spontaneous organizational participation in the medium-term to the current development dilemma. (2)In the stage dilemma of dependent community participation in tourism, cultural restrictive factors are particularly prominent. The survey found that local tourism in Shibing karst can not support the employment and livelihood of residents at all. In particular, community participation in tourism is significantly affected by cultural restrictive factors that work together between local and com‐ munity. (3)The development and change of tourism participation in heritage site are caused by several cultural limitations based on place, such as the consciousness of community participation, the ability of community participation, the leadership of community participation, the cohesion of community participation and collective action. Throughout an in-depth evaluation of the community participation in tourism development, this research provides a more effective analytical framework for the cultural limitations of community participation in tourism development, and provides some references for the development of rural tourism, the formulation of local government tourism policies and "rural revitalization". [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Turkish Culture & Haci Bektas Veli Research Quarterly is the property of Turkish Cultur & Haci Bektas Veli Research Quarterly and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The tourism is an industry that makes extensive use of natural heritage sites. It has long been debated whether tourism is a threat to natural heritage sites. This research has been written to contribute to these discussions. In the study, the author(s) aims to determine the effects and threat levels of tourism in World Natural Heritage Sites. Within the scope of the research, the impact of tourism on 24 samples selected from UNESCO natural heritage sites was examined with multi-criteria decision-making methods. According to the results of the research, the highest endangerment level among the selected NHS are "Lake Malawi National Park", "Machu Picchu Historic Sanctuary" and "Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park", while "Atlantic Forest Southeast Reserves", "Sinharaja Forest Conservation Area" and "Vredefort Dome" were found to be the least affected sites. The research results were discussed with the implications developed in accordance with the contexts of the selected NHS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Building on previous research that claims tourists' perceived authenticity is an antecedent to place attachment, this study explored the relationship between the two theoretical constructs. Specifically, the mechanism between perceived authenticity, place attachment, and loyalty was empirically tested. The data were collected at Kaiping Diaolou and Villages, and the Old Town of Lijiang, two UNESCO heritage sites in southern China. Contrary to previous studies, the findings indicate that (1) perceived authenticity can be an antecedent to place attachment, (2) across both sites, tourists' perceived authenticity of architecture or intangible heritage exhibited various effects on different components of place attachment, (3) the constituents of place attachment significantly influence loyalty, and (4) place attachment mediates between perceived authenticity and loyalty. This study provided a refined understanding of the dynamics between perceived authenticity and place attachment and offered practical implications for heritage management and marketing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cultural heritage sites in the developing world have the potential to boost local economies if marketed more systematically. This research proposes a marketing plan for cultural heritage in a Southern Thai Town and develops a set of marketing guidelines for cultural heritage management. Using a mixed-methods approach, data was obtained from documents, interviews, and focus group meetings with individuals involved in heritage site marketing. The heritage-marketing model is presented in the form of action plans, consisting of five strategies for promoting marketing. The short-term guidelines for cultural heritage marketing management focus on the improvement and development of heritage site infrastructure. For the longer term, development should focus on service sector personnel, activities for creative learning, and the development of marketing channels and public relations to specific groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The catastrophic floods that hit Pakistan in summer 2022 represent the latest example of climate change-induced extreme events occurring in South Asia. In addition to the dramatic impact on population and infrastructures, this event threatened UNESCO World Heritage Sites (WHS) and properties of national interest. However, while a wealth of national and international mapping initiatives were conducted based on satellite imagery to assess damage to people, buildings and economic goods, the impact caused to archaeological sites and monuments has not been fully unveiled yet. To bridge this gap and provide an integrated approach that can be used by local end-users to assess damage and, in turn, collect evidence to inform and improve risk management plans, the present paper integrates Sentinel-1 and 2 imagery and mapping products derived from them (e.g., Copernicus Emergency Management Service Global Flood Mapping) with ground-truthing and geospatial datasets. Through a multidisciplinary collaboration between geologists, archaeologists, remote sensing and satellite image analysts, the integration methodology was tested on UNESCO and other heritage sites of national relevance located in the two mostly affected regions of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Sindh that were intentionally selected to represent different typologies of cultural heritage and governance in Pakistan. Finally, the information extracted from the present analysis was assessed in relation to the current national and international legislations, the official state of conservation reports and the activities conducted at each site to protect them against flood events. Given the accessibility to ready-to-use Copernicus products and that the present analysis can be replicated over time and other sites, the proposed methodology provides a feasible means to exploit satellite data in post-disaster mapping situations and contribute to the decision-making process for risk management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is concerned with people's attachments to historic urban places they experience in their daily lives. The topic has received growing emphasis in the realm of heritage studies, given its importance to the conservation and management of historic urban environments. Drawing on qualitative data collected from thirty in-depth interviews carried out in Edinburgh, Scotland, I explore the multiple ways in which (known as dimensions in place attachment literature) people develop attachments to historic urban places: from a kind of autobiographic attachments which were grounded in their everyday living and memories, and those of their families to intellectual attachments wherein they showcased their deep appreciation for the attributes that define a historic place. I also seek to demonstrate a class-specific nature of attachments at the intellectual level, adding a politicised view to the complexity of the phenomenon. In so doing, I demonstrate the many ways in which historic places are important to people's enjoyment of lives in the city, and the various roles the history of places and/or their historic attributes played in forging such attachments. I conclude the paper with discussions on findings related to the current state of knowledge in place attachment research and implications for heritage practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Affected by multiple factors, differentiated capital investment and power games have led to the uneven regional development of rural areas at cultural heritage sites. Therefore, it is urgent to reflect on the spatial equity and justice of heritage sites from the perspective of social space. This study took the territorial function of rural areas (TFRA) as its research objective, utilizing the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site—the Qinshihuang Mausoleum—and the Qianling Mausoleum and the Qiaoling Mausoleum in Shaanxi Province as cases. Based on the theory of spatial production, an index system of TFRA was constructed using social and spatial dimensions. Factor analysis and social–spatial differentiation indices were employed to identify the spatial structure and differentiation of TFRA. The results show the following: (1) the case areas reflect eight principal components, and these components have obvious spatial differentiation characteristics; (2) the principal components related to heritage display and utilization have had a sustained impact over the past decade, which have driven the development of related industries, but the scores of principal components related to the restrictions of heritage protection have been decreased; (3) six functional type zones are designated, and the spatial pattern of TFRA presented a concentric circle with a core-periphery structure, which is influenced by heritage protection zoning; (4) high-value-added functional spaces form and expand along transportation lines; (5) the inherent demand for capital proliferation is the fundamental driving force for the differentiation and evolution of TFRA at heritage sites. Based on the results of the above analysis, strategies of coordinated development between society and space are proposed to address the issue of uneven regional development at heritage sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]