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Heritage, Volume 8, Issue 10 (October 2025) – 41 articles

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20 pages, 4863 KB  
Article
An Acoustic Reconstruction of Sistine Chapel in Rome at the Time of Leo X: The Role of Tapestries
by Francesco Martellotta and Lisa Pon
Heritage 2025, 8(10), 436; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage8100436 (registering DOI) - 16 Oct 2025
Abstract
The Sistine Chapel, originally designed to accommodate papal ceremonies, featured a system for hanging tapestries that ensured they were deployed according to the liturgical calendar. These textiles not only served as temporary decorative elements but also contributed to the acoustical environment. Historical records [...] Read more.
The Sistine Chapel, originally designed to accommodate papal ceremonies, featured a system for hanging tapestries that ensured they were deployed according to the liturgical calendar. These textiles not only served as temporary decorative elements but also contributed to the acoustical environment. Historical records suggest that Renaissance popes, particularly Leo X, were attuned to the impact of textiles on sound, experimenting with their placement to optimize acoustics for sermons and polyphonic music. Given the lack of direct historical acoustical measurements, this study employs a computational simulation approach to model the chapel’s acoustics with and without the presence of tapestries and human occupancy. A crucial first step involved characterizing the absorption coefficients of surface finishings in order to obtain a reliable model of the space and investigate modifications induced by tapestries. The study revealed that the presence of tapestries reduced reverberation time at mid-frequencies from 7.4 s to 5.1 s in the empty chapel and from 4.1 s to 3.4 s when occupied. The results corroborate historical observations, who noted the effects of tapestries on vocal clarity in papal ceremonies. The findings demonstrate that textiles played a significant role in controlling acoustics within the Sistine Chapel, complementing the liturgical experience. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Past Has Ears: Archaeoacoustics and Acoustic Heritage)
15 pages, 3174 KB  
Communication
3D Data Practices and Preservation for Humanities: A Decade of the Consortium “3D for Digital Humanities”
by Mehdi Chayani, Xavier Granier and Florent Laroche
Heritage 2025, 8(10), 435; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage8100435 (registering DOI) - 16 Oct 2025
Abstract
For more than a decade (2014–2025), the Consortium “3D for Digital Humanities” has been advancing the use of 3D technologies in the Humanities and Social Sciences (HSS) while structuring and supporting the research community. It now brings together more than 30 teams, primarily [...] Read more.
For more than a decade (2014–2025), the Consortium “3D for Digital Humanities” has been advancing the use of 3D technologies in the Humanities and Social Sciences (HSS) while structuring and supporting the research community. It now brings together more than 30 teams, primarily from academic research, but also increasingly from the cultural sector. Under its coordination, significant achievements have been realized, including best-practice guides, an infrastructure for the publication of 3D data, and dedicated software for documentation, dissemination, and archiving, as well as a metadata schema, all fully aligned with FAIR principles. The Consortium has developed national training programs, particularly on metadata and ethical practices, and contributed to important initiatives such as the reconstruction of Notre-Dame de Paris, while actively engaging in European projects. It has also fostered international collaborations to broaden perspectives, share methodologies, and amplify impacts. Looking ahead (2025–2033), the Consortium aims to address the environmental impact of 3D data production and storage by proposing best practices for digital sustainability and efficiency. It is also expanding the National 3D Data Repository, enhancing interoperability, and adopting emerging standards to meet evolving scientific needs. Building on its past achievements, the Consortium intends to further advance 3D research and its applications across disciplines, positioning 3D data as a key component of future scientific data clouds. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Data Environment in Current Cultural Heritage 3D Digitization Practices)
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24 pages, 2119 KB  
Review
Different Cleaning Techniques for Archeological Ceramics: A Review
by Meriam El Ouahabi, Catherine Cools, Valérie Rousseau and Justine Gautier
Heritage 2025, 8(10), 434; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage8100434 (registering DOI) - 16 Oct 2025
Abstract
Archeological ceramics represent values that necessitate preservation from various factors of deterioration. Cleaning processes are beneficial in the preservation of these ceramics. An abundance of cleaning technique and process information exists within the literature. This study examines the current state of both traditional [...] Read more.
Archeological ceramics represent values that necessitate preservation from various factors of deterioration. Cleaning processes are beneficial in the preservation of these ceramics. An abundance of cleaning technique and process information exists within the literature. This study examines the current state of both traditional and advanced cleaning techniques employed for archeological ceramics. The review discusses a wide range of commonly used cleaning techniques, including mechanical, dry and wet processes, as well as chemical approaches. Additionally, more recent laser, plasma, and biocleaning methods are discussed. The effectiveness of these techniques is examined, as well as potential damage or surface modifications to the ceramics. The selection of a cleaning method for ceramics depends on the specific characteristics of the ceramic (i.e., porosity, glaze, slip red-slipped, etc.), its state of conservation, and the nature and thickness of the fouling or encrustations. Careful selection and testing of chemical solutions are crucial to prevent damage. While chelating agents like EDTA effectively dissolve crusts and salts, uncontrolled application can weaken ceramic structures. Laponite, natural clay minerals, resins and organic gels (xanthan gum, agar, cellulose powder) are effective in removing contaminants from the surfaces of without causing damage. Environmentally friendly methods such as biocleaning, Pulsed Laser Cleaning, and plasma are effective but underutilized, requiring further investigation. This review emphasizes the growing potential of sustainable and non-invasive methods to complement or replace traditional approaches. Its main contribution lies in providing a critical synthesis that bridges conventional and innovative techniques, outlining research gaps for more effective and eco-responsible conservation of archeological ceramics. Full article
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21 pages, 3651 KB  
Article
Neolithic Bird Folk of the Mongolian Gobi Desert: Climate Change, Ecological Knowledge and Intangible Heritage in an Ancient Persistent Place
by Arlene M. Rosen, Julia Clarke, James Eighmey, Jennifer Farquhar, Dalantai Sarantuya and Tserendagva Yadmaa
Heritage 2025, 8(10), 433; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage8100433 - 15 Oct 2025
Abstract
There were profound changes in climate and landscape throughout the Early to Late Holocene in the Gobi Desert of Mongolia. The transmission of Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) among ancient hunter–gatherer societies is key for resilient adaptations to such environmental shifts. Such ecological knowledge [...] Read more.
There were profound changes in climate and landscape throughout the Early to Late Holocene in the Gobi Desert of Mongolia. The transmission of Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) among ancient hunter–gatherer societies is key for resilient adaptations to such environmental shifts. Such ecological knowledge is often transmitted across generations through folklore and rituals. Evidence from the site of Burgasny Enger in Mongolia’s Gobi Desert suggests a persistent place used for gatherings centered around ritual consumption of birds. Occupied seasonally from approximately 10,000–5000 years ago during a warm, wet Holocene phase, the site offers evidence of waterbird hunting, elaborate oven construction, and repeated occupations. We propose that such gatherings were occasions for storytelling and the cultural transmission of TEK, including the widespread Earth Diver Myth. This narrative, centered on the emergence of land from water, underscores the symbolic and ecological significance of wetlands in traditional cosmologies. With the disappearance of wetlands and changing climates, new herding societies replaced earlier lifeways. We highlight the importance of integrating Indigenous ecological knowledge into modern sustainability efforts. TEK, as demonstrated by these ancient practices, offers vital insights for biodiversity conservation, climate adaptation, and long-term ecological resilience. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Archaeology of Climate Change)
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15 pages, 6405 KB  
Article
Determining the Thickness of Gold Leaf in Post-Byzantine Religious Panel Paintings Using Imaging μ-XRF
by Ioanna Vasiliki Patakiouta, Anastasios Asvestas, Anastasia Tzima, Sotirios Danakas, Georgios P. Mastrotheodoros, Andreas G. Karydas and Dimitrios F. Anagnostopoulos
Heritage 2025, 8(10), 432; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage8100432 - 15 Oct 2025
Abstract
Thin gold leaves were frequently used to embellish post-Byzantine religious panel paintings. Measuring their thickness using non-destructive methods is essential for understanding the technology behind their creation and developing effective preservation strategies. This study describes a method for non-invasively measuring the thickness of [...] Read more.
Thin gold leaves were frequently used to embellish post-Byzantine religious panel paintings. Measuring their thickness using non-destructive methods is essential for understanding the technology behind their creation and developing effective preservation strategies. This study describes a method for non-invasively measuring the thickness of these gildings using large-scale imaging micro-X-ray fluorescence (µ-XRF) spectroscopy. The method relates the intensity of the Au Lα X-ray characteristic transition to the thickness of the gold layer. The method offers precise measurements of gold layer thickness in the submicrometer range on gilded surfaces, while traditional methods based on the intensity ratio of the same element prove ineffective. The method was initially validated on a mock-up sample created using traditional gilding techniques. Subsequently, the gilding was examined on two case studies of Greek religious icons. The analysis accurately measured the thickness of individual gold leaves, approximately one hundred nanometers, and identified regions with multiple overlapping layers, corresponding to structures with up to four leaves. The findings confirm that this technique offers valuable quantitative insights into the materiality and artistic techniques of these cultural heritage artifacts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Preservation of Cultural Heritage: The Nexus of Diagnosis-Prevention-Sustainability)
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25 pages, 14885 KB  
Article
Experimental Testing and Didactic Observation of the Collapse of Scaled Brick Structures Built with Traditional Techniques
by César De Santos-Berbel, Marina-Lúa R. Asenjo, Andrea Vázquez-Greciano and Santiago Huerta
Heritage 2025, 8(10), 431; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage8100431 - 14 Oct 2025
Abstract
The structural behavior of tile vaults remains challenging to evaluate accurately through numerical models, due to their geometry, the heterogeneity of its mechanical properties, and its boundary conditions. This study presents an experimental investigation carried out as part of a teaching innovation project [...] Read more.
The structural behavior of tile vaults remains challenging to evaluate accurately through numerical models, due to their geometry, the heterogeneity of its mechanical properties, and its boundary conditions. This study presents an experimental investigation carried out as part of a teaching innovation project aimed at deepening the understanding of masonry behavior through hands-on construction and collapse testing. Scaled vaults were built using traditional methods, employing thin bricks and fast-setting gypsum, materials typically selected for their accessibility and compatibility with heritage-inspired craftsmanship. The models were incrementally loaded until failure, enabling direct observation of collapse mechanisms. Plastic limit analysis was used to estimate structural capacity, with a focus on verifying the compatibility conditions of hinge formation. The vaults were documented using photogrammetric reconstruction (Structure-from-Motion) to generate accurate 3D models, and the evolution of collapse mechanisms was analyzed through digital motion tracking of observed hinges. Experimental loading reached values up to 4 kN/m2 without collapse, confirming that even thin-tile vaults exhibit considerable reserve capacity. While these values should be understood as conservative lower-bound estimates due to the workshop conditions, results also highlight the significant influence of construction imperfections and boundary conditions. This work reinforces the educational value of physical experimentation and offers empirical insights into tile masonry behavior that cannot be captured through purely digital or parametric models. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Architectural Heritage)
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19 pages, 12813 KB  
Article
Remote Sensing of American Revolutionary War Fortification at Butts Hill (Portsmouth, Rhode Island)
by James G. Keppeler, Marcus Rodriguez, Samuel Koontz, Alexander Wise, Philip Mink, George Crothers, Paul R. Murphy, John K. Robertson, Hugo Reyes-Centeno and Alexandra Uhl
Heritage 2025, 8(10), 430; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage8100430 - 14 Oct 2025
Abstract
The Battle of Rhode Island in 1778 was an important event in the revolutionary war leading to the international recognition of U.S. American independence following the 1776 declaration. It culminated in a month-long campaign against British forces occupying Aquidneck Island, serving as the [...] Read more.
The Battle of Rhode Island in 1778 was an important event in the revolutionary war leading to the international recognition of U.S. American independence following the 1776 declaration. It culminated in a month-long campaign against British forces occupying Aquidneck Island, serving as the first combined operation of the newly formed Franco-American alliance. The military fortification at Butts Hill in Portsmouth, Rhode Island, served as a strategic point during the conflict and remains well-conserved today. While LiDAR has assisted in the geospatial surface reconstruction of the site’s earthwork fortifications, it is unknown whether other historically documented buildings within the fort remain preserved underground. We therefore conducted a ground-penetrating radar (GPR) survey to ascertain the presence or absence of architectural features, hypothesizing that GPR imaging could reveal structural remnants from the military barracks constructed in 1777. To test this hypothesis, we used public satellite and LiDAR imagery alongside historical maps to target the location of the historical barracks, creating a grid to survey the area with a GPR module in 0.5 m transects. Our results, superimposing remote sensing imagery with historical maps, indicate that the remains of a barracks building are likely present between circa 5–50 cm beneath today’s surface, warranting future investigations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Archaeological Heritage)
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18 pages, 5737 KB  
Article
Limestones in the Roman Architecture of Oderzo and Concordia Sagittaria (Italy): Petrography and Provenance
by Chiara Girotto and Claudio Mazzoli
Heritage 2025, 8(10), 429; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage8100429 - 13 Oct 2025
Viewed by 123
Abstract
This paper presents the results of a research project on the use of stone in Roman architecture in Oderzo and Concordia Sagittaria, located between the Tagliamento and the Piave rivers (Italy). The study involved a documental survey, material sampling and analysis, provenance identification, [...] Read more.
This paper presents the results of a research project on the use of stone in Roman architecture in Oderzo and Concordia Sagittaria, located between the Tagliamento and the Piave rivers (Italy). The study involved a documental survey, material sampling and analysis, provenance identification, and interpretation of results to reconstruct ancient stone trade routes. During sampling, 33 carbonate rock specimens were collected from archaeological sites and architectural elements in Oderzo, and 52 from Concordia Sagittaria. In both cities, these rocks were primarily used for architectural elements such as columns and capitals, whereas these lithotypes were less frequently employed in structures and infrastructures. The analysis revealed a significant reliance on regional limestones. Petrographic examinations (PLM-TL) identified six main limestone groups, many of which were linked to quarries located in the Aurisina and in the Triestine Karst region, as well as in the Prealps and Berici Hills. The study encountered several challenges: many analysed samples displayed petrographic characteristics consistent with multiple sources, complicating the precise identification of their extraction site. Despite a detailed understanding of the region’s geology, reference geological datasets often overlook outcrops that may have been exploited in antiquity. Consequently, when samples lacked distinctive features, tracing them to a particular quarrying basin proved difficult. In conclusion, the research underscores the extensive use of local limestones while acknowledging the challenges posed by limited petrographic reference data, which hinder the precise identification of the source basins of the materials used in Roman construction. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Provenance of Construction Stone Materials in Archaeology: New Advances, Methodologies and Issues)
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33 pages, 2383 KB  
Review
Artificial Intelligence in Heritage Tourism: Innovation, Accessibility, and Sustainability in the Digital Age
by José-Manuel Sánchez-Martín, Rebeca Guillén-Peñafiel and Ana-María Hernández-Carretero
Heritage 2025, 8(10), 428; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage8100428 - 12 Oct 2025
Viewed by 369
Abstract
Artificial intelligence (AI) is profoundly transforming heritage tourism through the incorporation of technological solutions that reconfigure the ways in which cultural heritage is conserved, interpreted, and experienced. This article presents a critical and systematic review of current AI applications in this field, with [...] Read more.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is profoundly transforming heritage tourism through the incorporation of technological solutions that reconfigure the ways in which cultural heritage is conserved, interpreted, and experienced. This article presents a critical and systematic review of current AI applications in this field, with a special focus on their impact on destination management, the personalization of tourist experiences, universal accessibility, and the preservation of both tangible and intangible assets. Based on an analysis of the scientific literature and international use cases, key technologies such as machine learning, computer vision, generative models, and recommendation systems are identified. These tools enable everything from the virtual reconstruction of historical sites to the development of intelligent cultural assistants and adaptive tours, improving the visitor experience and promoting inclusion. This study also examines the main ethical, technical, and epistemological challenges associated with this transformation, including algorithmic surveillance, data protection, interoperability between platforms, the digital divide, and the reconfiguration of heritage knowledge production processes. In conclusion, this study argues that AI, when implemented in accordance with principles of responsibility, sustainability, and cultural sensitivity, can serve as a strategic instrument for ensuring the accessibility, representativeness, and social relevance of cultural heritage in the digital age. However, its effective integration necessitates the development of sector-specific ethical frameworks, inclusive governance models, and sustainable technological implementation strategies that promote equity, community participation, and long-term viability. Furthermore, this article highlights the need for empirical research to assess the actual impact of these technologies and for the creation of indicators to evaluate their effectiveness, fairness, and contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Digital Museology and Emerging Technologies in Cultural Heritage)
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27 pages, 2349 KB  
Article
Reframing Place Identity for Traditional Village Conservation: A Theoretical Model with Evidence from Dali Dong Village
by Yihan Wang, Mohd Khairul Azhar Mat Sulaiman and Nor Zalina Harun
Heritage 2025, 8(10), 427; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage8100427 - 9 Oct 2025
Viewed by 451
Abstract
Rapid socio-spatial change in China’s traditional villages threatens living heritage and weakens locally grounded identity. This paper theorizes place identity as a dynamic, embodied and performative ecology and examines it in Dali Dong Village across four dimensions, emotional attachment, symbolic meaning, continuity and [...] Read more.
Rapid socio-spatial change in China’s traditional villages threatens living heritage and weakens locally grounded identity. This paper theorizes place identity as a dynamic, embodied and performative ecology and examines it in Dali Dong Village across four dimensions, emotional attachment, symbolic meaning, continuity and behavioural commitment, using a triangulated qualitative design that integrates interviews, spatial observation and visual ethnography. Findings show that identity is enacted around ritual architectures and everyday settings, particularly the Drum Tower, Flower Bridge, and Sa altar. Emotional attachment and symbolic meaning are expressed consistently across sources, whereas continuity and behavioural commitment are uneven, shaped by ritual fatigue (compressed rehearsal windows), symbolic commodification under tourism, and selective continuity in intergenerational transmission. These mechanisms identify where the identity fabric is most fragile and where intervention leverage lies. Conceptually, the study relocates place identity from cognition-centred, urban models to ritualized rural lifeworlds. Practically, it offers a portable framework for community-anchored stewardship that can be adapted to similar settlements and aligned with policy aims for safeguarding living heritage. Full article
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18 pages, 1442 KB  
Article
Preserved 800-Year-Old Liquid Beer in a Jin Dynasty Vase: Evidence of Malted Sorghum–Wheat Fermentation in Xi’an, China
by Li Liu, Xinyi Liu, Chunlei Yu and Yifei Miao
Heritage 2025, 8(10), 426; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage8100426 - 9 Oct 2025
Viewed by 233
Abstract
This study investigates a rare case of liquid alcohol preserved in a glazed ceramic vase from the tomb of Li Jurou (AD 1226), Jin dynasty, Xi’an, China, to provide new insights into medieval brewing traditions. We employed a multi-proxy approach combining microfossil and [...] Read more.
This study investigates a rare case of liquid alcohol preserved in a glazed ceramic vase from the tomb of Li Jurou (AD 1226), Jin dynasty, Xi’an, China, to provide new insights into medieval brewing traditions. We employed a multi-proxy approach combining microfossil and isotopic analysis, experimental brewing with sorghum, and incorporated previously published proteomic data to illuminate its origin. Microfossil analysis revealed yeast cells and starch granules with damage patterns diagnostic of enzymatic saccharification and mashing, indicating the use of malted sorghum and wheat, alongside cooked rice and foxnut. The starch damage features observed in the archaeological sample are consistent with patterns documented in experimental beer brewing with sorghum and wheat/barley. Stable isotope analysis yielded a δ13C value of –18.5‰, consistent with mixed C3 and C4 inputs. Two-component isotopic modeling revealed that C4 plant (likely sorghum) contributed 40–50% of the ingredients, with C3 plants such as wheat, rice, and foxnut making up the remainder. These findings align with proteomic results identifying sorghum proteins in the liquid. The combined evidence distinguishes this beverage from qu-based fermentation and links it instead to li-type brewing, rooted in malted cereals and associated with ritual practices. This represents the earliest direct archaeological evidence of sorghum beer in China, highlighting both technological innovation and cultural adaptation in historical alcohol production. Full article
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24 pages, 430 KB  
Article
Analysis of the Experiences of Visitors the Museum Offer of Tourist Destination
by Antonio Badurina, Zrinka Zadel and Elena Rudan
Heritage 2025, 8(10), 425; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage8100425 - 8 Oct 2025
Viewed by 407
Abstract
Museums play a significant role in a destination’s cultural and tourist offer, influencing the overall tourist experience. Based on survey conducted among visitors to the Museum of Apoxyomenos of the town of Mali Lošinj and the Cres Museum of the City of Cres, [...] Read more.
Museums play a significant role in a destination’s cultural and tourist offer, influencing the overall tourist experience. Based on survey conducted among visitors to the Museum of Apoxyomenos of the town of Mali Lošinj and the Cres Museum of the City of Cres, located on the islands of Cres and Lošinj in Croatia, the views of visitors on the museum experience, its role in shaping the overall tourist experience and its connection with the level of consumption, satisfaction with the destination and intention of re-visiting were analysed. The findings of this research suggest that satisfaction with the museum experience can significantly contribute to a positive perception of the destination, encouraging recommendations and increasing the intention to revisit. The results confirm that satisfaction with museum experience strongly contributes to the positive assessment of the destination, encourages recommendations, and increases the intention to return. Although only a weak positive correlation has been established between total visitor consumption and consumption within museums, museums are recognised as important revenue generators and economic factors in the destination. Socio-demographic factors had no significant impact on satisfaction, indicating the universality of the museum’s offer. The findings of this research point to the importance of museum content, promotion, and integration of museums into tourism strategies as potential key elements in the development of tourist destinations. Based on the results obtained, the importance of museum contents, promotion, and integration of museums in tourist strategies is confirmed as key elements of the development of destinations. This research contributes to understanding museums as active participants in the cultural and economic development of tourist destinations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Museum and Heritage)
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18 pages, 2283 KB  
Article
Integrating Material Analysis, Radiocarbon Dating, and Technical Examination in the Dating and Provenance Study of a Copy of Raphael’s “The Great Holy Family of Francis I”
by Ester S. B. Ferreira, Charlotte Hoffmann, Laura Hendriks, Irka Hajdas, Stefan Kradolfer, Detlef Günther, Katharina Hünerfauth, Juliane Reinhardt, Hans Portsteffen and Susanne Müller-Bechtel
Heritage 2025, 8(10), 424; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage8100424 - 6 Oct 2025
Viewed by 322
Abstract
In 2016, five fragments from a copy of “The Great Holy Family of Francis I” were brought to the Cologne Institute of Conservation Sciences (CICS) for research and conserva-tion/restoration. A comprehensive technical and material analysis was carried out to as-sist provenance studies. From [...] Read more.
In 2016, five fragments from a copy of “The Great Holy Family of Francis I” were brought to the Cologne Institute of Conservation Sciences (CICS) for research and conserva-tion/restoration. A comprehensive technical and material analysis was carried out to as-sist provenance studies. From the analysis of pigments, binder, additives, and canvas fi-bres alongside radiocarbon dating of the lead white pigment, oil binder, and canvas sup-port, as well as the lead stable isotope study, it could be determined that, with high proba-bility, the copy was created in Northern Europe between the late 16th century and the mid-17th century. During this period the original painting was initially displayed in Fon-tainebleau in the “Chapelle Haute” before being transferred in the early 17th century to the newly built “Cabinet des Peintures”, also in Fontainebleau, where it would probably have been more accessible for copying. Interestingly, the written sources describe a copy made during this period to replace the original in the “Chapelle Haute”, the location of which is currently not known. However, the different overall dimensions of the present copy speak against it, having been created to replace the original. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Radiocarbon Dating in Conservation of Artwork and Heritage Materials)
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27 pages, 11653 KB  
Article
Climate Change and Historical Food-Related Architecture Abandonment: Evidence from Italian Case Studies
by Roberta Varriale and Roberta Ciaravino
Heritage 2025, 8(10), 423; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage8100423 - 5 Oct 2025
Viewed by 732
Abstract
Climatic factors have always played a key role in the construction of food-related architecture: mitigation of outdoor temperatures or winds, adoption of raining waters in the productive processes, etc. However, sometimes, climate change has impacted the profitability of those structures and eventually caused [...] Read more.
Climatic factors have always played a key role in the construction of food-related architecture: mitigation of outdoor temperatures or winds, adoption of raining waters in the productive processes, etc. However, sometimes, climate change has impacted the profitability of those structures and eventually caused their abandonment. Today, historical food-related architectures are significant elements of local rural heritage, and they are also tangible symbols of all the values connected to the corresponding typical food productions. When the cultural value of rural cultural assets and the historical management of climatic factors coexist, this potential can be investigated, and the results can ultimately be included in the corresponding enhancement processes. To exploit this potential, the paper introduces the theoretical concept of food-related architecture as climatic indicators, with reference to the changes in the climate that have occurred during their construction, as well as their abandonment. According to the thesis of the research, the adoption of the concept of climatic indicators can implement the value of selected minor cultural assets, support sustainable rural regeneration plans and integrate missing historical climate series and data. In the Materials and Methods section, two theoretical charts have been introduced, and the pyramid of the Mediterranean diet was analyzed to allow for the selection of some food-related architectures to test the theoretical approach developed. Then, three Italian case studies have been analyzed: the concept of climate indicators was tested, and some potential focus points of actions connected to this aspect were elucidated. The case studies are the Pietragalla wine district in the Basilicata Region, the Apulian rock-cut oil mills and Mills’s Valley in the Campania Region. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability for Heritage)
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59 pages, 4837 KB  
Article
A Human–AI Compass for Sustainable Art Museums: Navigating Opportunities and Challenges in Operations, Collections Management, and Visitor Engagement
by Charis Avlonitou, Eirini Papadaki and Alexandros Apostolakis
Heritage 2025, 8(10), 422; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage8100422 - 5 Oct 2025
Viewed by 550
Abstract
This paper charts AI’s transformative path toward advancing sustainability within art museums, introducing a Human–AI compass as a conceptual framework for navigating its integration. It advocates for human-centric AI that optimizes operations, modernizes collection management, and deepens visitor engagement—anchored in meaningful human–technology synergy [...] Read more.
This paper charts AI’s transformative path toward advancing sustainability within art museums, introducing a Human–AI compass as a conceptual framework for navigating its integration. It advocates for human-centric AI that optimizes operations, modernizes collection management, and deepens visitor engagement—anchored in meaningful human–technology synergy and thoughtful human oversight. Drawing on extensive literature review and real-world museum case studies, the paper explores AI’s multifaceted impact across three domains. Firstly, it examines how AI improves operations, from audience forecasting and resource optimization to refining marketing, supporting conservation, and reshaping curatorial practices. Secondly, it investigates AI’s influence on digital collection management, highlighting its ability to improve organization, searchability, analysis, and interpretation through automated metadata and advanced pattern recognition. Thirdly, the study analyzes how AI elevates the visitor experience via chatbots, audio guides, and interactive applications, leveraging personalization, recommendation systems, and co-creation opportunities. Crucially, this exploration acknowledges AI’s complex challenges—technical-operational, ethical-governance, socioeconomic-cultural, and environmental—underscoring the indispensable role of human judgment in steering its implementation. The Human-AI compass offers a balanced, strategic approach for aligning innovation with human values, ethical principles, museum mission, and sustainability. The study provides valuable insights for researchers, practitioners and policymakers, enriching the broader discourse on AI’s growing role in the art and cultural sector. Full article
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33 pages, 1030 KB  
Review
Augmented Reality in Cultural Heritage: A Narrative Review of Design, Development and Evaluation Approaches
by Anna Chatsiopoulou and Panagiotis D. Michailidis
Heritage 2025, 8(10), 421; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage8100421 - 5 Oct 2025
Viewed by 783
Abstract
Cultural heritage is important for every group and society, as it represents a part of their identity and helps preserve traditions, along with significant tangible and intangible elements. These elements are not only passed on to future generations but also play a role [...] Read more.
Cultural heritage is important for every group and society, as it represents a part of their identity and helps preserve traditions, along with significant tangible and intangible elements. These elements are not only passed on to future generations but also play a role in education today. Many studies have examined digital applications that promote cultural heritage, particularly those that use Augmented Reality (AR) technology. However, few have systematically examined the methodologies used in the design, development and evaluation of AR applications for cultural heritage. This narrative review addresses that gap by analyzing 45 papers published between 2008 and 2024 from the Scopus and Web of Science databases. The review identifies the main motivations for AR applications, such as enhancing the learning experience, promoting tourism and the use of gamification. The majority of these applications concentrate on tangible cultural heritage, such as historical buildings and cultural routes, while intangible heritage remains less explored. In most cases, AR applications were developed with a focus on user experience, using various development tools and showing different levels of technical complexity. Although many applications initiated evaluation processes, few completed them thoroughly. These evaluations vary widely, ranging from usability tests to pre-/post-tests. The results generally report positive impacts in terms of learning and user experience. This review offers a structured framework and useful insights for researchers regarding the design and evaluation of AR applications and helps identify research gaps and limitations for future work. Full article
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16 pages, 392 KB  
Article
Investigating the Etiology and Demographic Distribution of Enamel Hypoplasia
by Claudia Moro, Lucie Biehler-Gomez, Giuseppe Lanza Attisano, Daniele Maria Gibelli, Federica Boschi, Danilo De Angelis and Cristina Cattaneo
Heritage 2025, 8(10), 420; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage8100420 - 3 Oct 2025
Viewed by 427
Abstract
Enamel hypoplasia (EH) is a stress marker commonly used in bioarcheological research to investigate health during growth. However, its analysis in contemporary samples allows for additional avenues of research, including comparison with medical records. The aim of the present research is to explore [...] Read more.
Enamel hypoplasia (EH) is a stress marker commonly used in bioarcheological research to investigate health during growth. However, its analysis in contemporary samples allows for additional avenues of research, including comparison with medical records. The aim of the present research is to explore the influence of biological sex and socioeconomic status on the distribution of EH and examine the factors that contribute to the development of this defect. In this perspective, analysis of dentition was conducted on 132 individuals, with known information about age, biological sex, nationality, medical records, and socioeconomic status. Statistical analysis was conducted using Fisher’s test and the chi-square test. As a result, EH was observed more frequently among individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds, while a significant association was observed with socioeconomic status, evidencing a strong association between EH presence and structural vulnerability (chi-square, p = 0.04). The frequency of EH between sexes was not significant; however, a higher frequency was observed among males (chi-square, p = 0.94). We hypothesize that the impact of female biological buffering might be reduced in the European sample, as this result aligns with background information of the context. These results align with the research hypotheses and reinforce the multifactorial etiology of EH. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Analysis of Bioarchaeology, Skeletal Biology and Evolution)
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21 pages, 3223 KB  
Article
Oxidative Degradation Mechanism of Zinc White Acrylic Paint: Uneven Distribution of Damage Under Artificial Aging
by Mais Khadur, Victor Ivanov, Artem Gusenkov, Alexander Gulin, Marina Soloveva, Yulia Diakonova, Yulian Khalturin and Victor Nadtochenko
Heritage 2025, 8(10), 419; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage8100419 - 3 Oct 2025
Viewed by 473
Abstract
Accelerated artificial aging of zinc oxide (ZnO)-based acrylic artists’ paint, filled with calcium carbonate (CaCO3) as an extender, was carried out for a total of 1963 h (~8 × 107 lux·h), with assessments at specific intervals. The total color difference [...] Read more.
Accelerated artificial aging of zinc oxide (ZnO)-based acrylic artists’ paint, filled with calcium carbonate (CaCO3) as an extender, was carried out for a total of 1963 h (~8 × 107 lux·h), with assessments at specific intervals. The total color difference ΔE* was <2 (CIELab-76 system) over 1725 h of aging, while the human eye notices color change at ΔE* > 2. Oxidative degradation of organic components in the paint to form volatile products was revealed by attenuated total reflectance–Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy, micro-Raman spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS). It appears that deep oxidation of organic intermediates and volatilization of organic matter may be responsible for the relatively small value of ΔE* color difference during aging of the samples. To elucidate the degradation pathways, principal component analysis (PCA) was applied to the spectral data, revealing: (1) the catalytic role of ZnO in accelerating photodegradation, (2) the Kolbe photoreaction, (3) the decomposition of the binder to form volatile degradation products, and (4) the relative photoinactivity of CaCO3 compared with ZnO, showing slower degradation in areas with a higher CaCO3 content compared with those dominated by ZnO. These results provide fundamental insights into formulation-specific degradation processes, offering practical guidance for the development of more durable artist paints and conservation strategies for acrylic artworks. Full article
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17 pages, 52052 KB  
Article
Integrated Low-Cost Lighting Filters for Color-Accurate Imaging in a Cultural Heritage Context
by Sahara R. Smith and Susan P. Farnand
Heritage 2025, 8(10), 418; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage8100418 - 3 Oct 2025
Viewed by 340
Abstract
Color accuracy is both important and elusive in cultural heritage imaging. An established method for improving color accuracy is dual-RGB imaging, where RGB images of an object are captured sequentially under two different conditions and then combined. As part of an initiative to [...] Read more.
Color accuracy is both important and elusive in cultural heritage imaging. An established method for improving color accuracy is dual-RGB imaging, where RGB images of an object are captured sequentially under two different conditions and then combined. As part of an initiative to increase accessibility to color-accurate imaging, the use of lighting filters with the dual-RGB method is investigated. Gel lighting filters are low-cost and can be directly integrated into an imaging workflow by placing them in front of the existing light sources. This research found that color accuracy can be increased by using lighting filters, but it can also be decreased by a poor selection of filter combinations. The identity of the best-performing filters is highly dependent on the light source and can be affected by the pixels selected to represent the color target. Current simulation approaches are insufficient to predict which filters will increase color accuracy. While lighting filters are a promising method for accessible multispectral imaging, their practical implementation is complex and requires further research and adjustments to the method. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Progress in Cultural Heritage Diagnostics)
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16 pages, 32637 KB  
Article
Integration of Hyperspectral Imaging and Robotics: A Novel Approach to Analysing Cultural Heritage Artefacts
by Agnese Babini, Selene Frascella, Gregory Sech, Fabrizio Andriulo, Ferdinando Cannella, Gabriele Marchello and Arianna Traviglia
Heritage 2025, 8(10), 417; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage8100417 - 3 Oct 2025
Viewed by 316
Abstract
This paper pioneers the integration of hyperspectral imaging and robotics for the automated analysis of cultural heritage, representing a measurable advancement over existing manually operated systems. For the first time in the cultural heritage domain, a compact push-broom hyperspectral camera working in the [...] Read more.
This paper pioneers the integration of hyperspectral imaging and robotics for the automated analysis of cultural heritage, representing a measurable advancement over existing manually operated systems. For the first time in the cultural heritage domain, a compact push-broom hyperspectral camera working in the VNIR range has been successfully mounted on a robotic arm, enabling precise and repeatable acquisition trajectories without the need for manual intervention. Unlike traditional approaches that rely on fixed paths or manual repositioning, the proposed approach allows dynamic and programmable imaging of both planar and volumetric objects, greatly improving adaptability to complex geometries. The integrated system achieves spectral reliability comparable to established manual methods, while offering superior flexibility and scalability. Current limitations, particularly regarding the illumination setup, are discussed alongside planned optimisation strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Digital Heritage)
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17 pages, 2869 KB  
Article
Romanino’s Colour Palette in the “Musicians” Fresco of the Duomo Vecchio, Brescia
by Fatemeh Taati Anbuhi, Alfonso Zoleo, Barbara Savy and Gilberto Artioli
Heritage 2025, 8(10), 416; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage8100416 - 3 Oct 2025
Viewed by 272
Abstract
This study examines the pigments and materials used in Girolamo Romanino’s Musicians fresco (1537–1538), located in the Duomo Vecchio in Brescia, with the aim of identifying and analyzing the artist’s colour palette. Ten samples of the pictorial layer and mortar were collected from [...] Read more.
This study examines the pigments and materials used in Girolamo Romanino’s Musicians fresco (1537–1538), located in the Duomo Vecchio in Brescia, with the aim of identifying and analyzing the artist’s colour palette. Ten samples of the pictorial layer and mortar were collected from two frescoes and characterized using microscopic and spectroscopic techniques. Confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) was used to define the best positions where single-point, spectroscopic techniques could be applied. Raman spectroscopy and micro-Fourier transform Infrared spectroscopy (micro-FTIR) were used to detect pigments and organic binders, respectively. X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD) provided additional insights into the mineral composition of the pigmenting layers, in combination with environmental scanning electron microscopy equipped with energy-dispersive spectroscopy (ESEM-EDS). The analysis revealed the use of traditional fresco pigments, including calcite, carbon black, ochres, and copper-based pigments. Smalt, manganese earths, and gold were also identified, reflecting Romanino’s approach to colour and material selection. Additionally, the detection of modern pigments such as titanium white and baryte points to restoration interventions, shedding light on the fresco’s conservation history. This research provides one of the most comprehensive analyses of pigments in Romanino’s works, contributing to a deeper understanding of his artistic practices and contemporary fresco techniques. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Interdisciplinary Applications of Spectroscopic Techniques for Heritage Conservation)
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47 pages, 14696 KB  
Article
Wrapping Matters: Unpacking the Materiality of Votive Animal Mummies
by Maria Diletta Pubblico
Heritage 2025, 8(10), 415; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage8100415 - 3 Oct 2025
Viewed by 274
Abstract
This study presents the first systematic investigation of ancient Egyptian votive animal mummy wrappings, based on the analysis of an extensive dataset encompassing specimens from various museum collections and archaeological contexts. The research addresses the long-standing neglect and fragmented understanding of the wrapping [...] Read more.
This study presents the first systematic investigation of ancient Egyptian votive animal mummy wrappings, based on the analysis of an extensive dataset encompassing specimens from various museum collections and archaeological contexts. The research addresses the long-standing neglect and fragmented understanding of the wrapping chaîne opératoire and aims to establish a consistent terminology, as the different stages of the wrapping sequence, bundle shapes, and decorative patterns have often been described vaguely. Through an interdisciplinary methodology that integrates photogrammetry, colorant identification, textile analysis, and experimental archaeology, the study explores the complexity of wrapping practices across their different stages. This approach offers new insights into the structural logic, raw material selection, and design conventions behind this production. The analysis reveals that the bundles exhibit standardized shapes and decorative patterns grounded in well-established visual criteria and manufacturing sequences. These findings demonstrate that the wrappings reflect a codified visual language and a high level of technical knowledge, deeply rooted in Egyptian tradition. The study also emphasizes its economic implications: the wrapping significantly enhanced the perceived value of the offering, becoming the primary element influencing both its material and symbolic worth. Ultimately, this work provides an interpretative framework for understanding wrapping as an essential medium of ritual sacralization for votive animal mummies, allowing the individual prayer to be effectively conveyed to the intended deity. Consequently, this research marks a significant step forward in advancing the technical, aesthetic, and ritual insight of wrapping practices, which preserve a wealth of still-overlooked information. Full article
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20 pages, 3230 KB  
Article
An Ultradolichocephaly in a Knight of the Order of Calatrava from the Castle of Zorita de los Canes (Guadalajara, Spain) Dated Between the 13th and 15th Centuries
by Carme Rissech, Oscar Creo, Blanca Revuelta, Susana Cobo, Dionisio Urbina, Catalina Urquijo, Philip Banks and Lluís Lloveras
Heritage 2025, 8(10), 414; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage8100414 - 3 Oct 2025
Viewed by 330
Abstract
This study presents a paleopathological analysis of individual T4.2 from the archaeological site of the castle of Zorita de los Canes (Guadalajara, Spain). The individual exhibits ultradolichocephaly and was dated between the 13th and 15th centuries. Based on the context, the individual could [...] Read more.
This study presents a paleopathological analysis of individual T4.2 from the archaeological site of the castle of Zorita de los Canes (Guadalajara, Spain). The individual exhibits ultradolichocephaly and was dated between the 13th and 15th centuries. Based on the context, the individual could have been a member of the military–religious Order of Calatrava. Standard bioanthropological and paleopathological methods were applied. The results indicate a male aged between 45 and 49 years with a maximum cranial length and width of 230 mm and 122 mm, respectively. The cranial index (53%) allows him to be classified as ultradolichocephalic. The remains present craniosynostosis at the sagittal, squamosal and sphenofrontal sutures, together with underdevelopment of the skull base width and a dolichognathic mandible with the possible presence of type III prognathism. The left hemimandible and hemimaxilla display a large amount of tartar covering the occlusal, labial and lingual areas of the teeth completely. The right hemimandible and hemimaxilla exhibit almost no tartar, and some teeth were lost in vivo. In addition, two stab wounds—to the external occipital protuberance and to the left temple—as well as a contused injury in the left tibia, can be observed without evidence of bone remodeling. Differential diagnosis indicates a case consistent with Crouzon syndrome. This individual is of particular significance because he was a possibly knight of the Order of Calatrava who presents a syndromic craniosynostosis consistent with Crouzon syndrome and exhibits lesions, which may suggest that he could have died in battle. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Palaeopathological Analysis Applied to Forensic and Archaeological Studies)
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18 pages, 3313 KB  
Article
Digital Resilience and Communication Strategies in Underfunded Museums in Argentina and Spain (2020–2024)
by Ana Martí-Testón, Lucía Lanusse, Juan José Climent-Ferrer, Adolfo Muñoz, J. Ernesto Solanes and Luis Gracia
Heritage 2025, 8(10), 413; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage8100413 - 2 Oct 2025
Viewed by 223
Abstract
Between 2020 and 2024, museums underwent accelerated digital transformation driven by the global health crisis and technological advances, exposing deep inequalities in access to technology and communication capabilities. Museums with limited resources had to rethink their digital strategies to sustain audience engagement and [...] Read more.
Between 2020 and 2024, museums underwent accelerated digital transformation driven by the global health crisis and technological advances, exposing deep inequalities in access to technology and communication capabilities. Museums with limited resources had to rethink their digital strategies to sustain audience engagement and cultural relevance. This article presents a comparative study of museums in Argentina and Spain with restricted budgets, analyzing how they responded to challenges of uncertainty and scarcity. Using a mixed methodology—surveys of 22 professionals, interviews with directors of four representative museums, and qualitative case studies—this study examines the implemented solutions and their impacts. The findings highlight innovative practices grounded in creativity, strategic alliances, and intensive use of social media. Argentine museums excelled in tactical adaptation amid economic instability, while Spanish institutions showed stronger strategic planning. Private museums proved more flexible than their public counterparts, which faced greater bureaucratic constraints. This work contributes to debates on institutional resilience and offers a framework for sustainable digital communication in resource-limited contexts. Full article
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32 pages, 4086 KB  
Article
Let the Lead Tags Talk—Terms on Carnuntum Tesserae Referring to Textiles, Colours and Dyeing in the 2nd Century CE
by Regina Hofmann-de Keijzer, Ivan Radman-Livaja, Ines Bogensperger, Andreas G. Heiss and Beatrix Petznek
Heritage 2025, 8(10), 412; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage8100412 - 1 Oct 2025
Viewed by 220
Abstract
In the Roman Empire, lead tags were used for various purposes, one of which was to label textiles that needed cleaning, repairing or dyeing. So far, these tesserae have been found at over 90 sites in 13 Roman provinces. The cities of Siscia [...] Read more.
In the Roman Empire, lead tags were used for various purposes, one of which was to label textiles that needed cleaning, repairing or dyeing. So far, these tesserae have been found at over 90 sites in 13 Roman provinces. The cities of Siscia and Carnuntum in Pannonia Superior have the highest number of finds. In 2011, a Roman cesspit was excavated in the civil city of Carnuntum and dated to the mid-2nd century CE. The latrine contained household and food waste, human faeces, pottery shards, pollen, lime, amber and 179 lead tags. The tags bear inscriptions consisting of personal names, prices, and abbreviations of terms relating to garments, colours and services such as cleaning, mending, repairing, fulling, fumigating, perfuming, dyeing, and redyeing. The findings of Roman textiles unearthed in Carnuntum are too degraded to allow a successful dye analysis to be carried out. Therefore, the inscriptions are important sources for drawing conclusions about dyeing materials and techniques. This information was supplemented by ancient written sources as well as archaeobotanical finds of dye plants and dye analyses of archaeological textiles found in Central Europe dating from the same period or earlier. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dyes in History and Archaeology 43)
23 pages, 315 KB  
Article
Ships Arriving at Ports and Tales of Shipwrecks: Heterotopia and Seafaring, 16th to 18th Centuries
by Ana Crespo-Solana
Heritage 2025, 8(10), 411; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage8100411 - 30 Sep 2025
Viewed by 864
Abstract
The objective of this article is to provide a critical analysis of maritime heterotopia as a category for reinterpreting ships, shipwrecks and maritime landscapes between the 16th and 18th centuries. Through an interdisciplinary approach combining history, underwater archaeology, heritage theory and literary analysis, [...] Read more.
The objective of this article is to provide a critical analysis of maritime heterotopia as a category for reinterpreting ships, shipwrecks and maritime landscapes between the 16th and 18th centuries. Through an interdisciplinary approach combining history, underwater archaeology, heritage theory and literary analysis, it explores the ways in which maritime spaces, especially ships and shipwrecks, functioned as ‘other spaces’–following Foucault’s concept of heterotopia–in the articulation of imperial projects, power relations, experiences of transit and narratives of memory. A particular focus has been placed on the examination of shipwreck accounts, which are regarded as microhistories of human behaviour in contexts of crisis. These accounts have been shown to offer insights into alternative social structures, dynamics of authority, and manifestations of violence or solidarity. A review of the legal framework and practices related to shipwrecks in the Spanish Carrera de Indias is also undertaken, with particular emphasis on their impact on maritime legislation and international law. This article proposes a reading of maritime heritage as a symbolic and political device in constant dispute, where material remains and associated narratives shape collective memories, geopolitical tensions and new forms of cultural appropriation. Shipwrecks thus become sites of rupture and origin, charged with utopian, dystopian and heterotopic potential. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Underwater Heritage)
15 pages, 3046 KB  
Article
Enhancing Semantic Interoperability of Heritage BIM-Based Asset Preservation
by Karol Argasiński and Artur Tomczak
Heritage 2025, 8(10), 410; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage8100410 - 30 Sep 2025
Viewed by 383
Abstract
Preservation of Cultural Heritage (CH) demands precise and comprehensive information representation to document, analyse, and manage assets effectively. While Building Information Modelling (BIM) facilitates as-is state documentation, challenges in semantic interoperability of complex cultural data often limit its potential in heritage contexts. This [...] Read more.
Preservation of Cultural Heritage (CH) demands precise and comprehensive information representation to document, analyse, and manage assets effectively. While Building Information Modelling (BIM) facilitates as-is state documentation, challenges in semantic interoperability of complex cultural data often limit its potential in heritage contexts. This study investigates the integration of BIM tools with the buildingSMART Data Dictionary (bSDD) platform to enhance semantic interoperability for heritage assets. Using a proof-of-concept approach, the research focuses on a historic tenement house in Tarnów, Poland, modelled with the IFC schema standard and enriched with the MIDAS heritage classification system. The methodology includes transforming the classification system into bSDD data dictionary, publishing thesauri for components, materials, and monument types, and semantic enrichment of the model using Bonsai (formerly BlenderBIM) plugin for Blender. Results demonstrate improved consistency, accuracy, and usability of BIM data for heritage preservation. The integration ensures detailed documentation and facilitates interoperability across platforms, addressing preservation challenges with enriched narratives of cultural significance. This method supports future predictive models for heritage asset conservation, emphasizing the importance of data quality and interoperability in safeguarding shared cultural heritage for future generations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cultural Heritage and New Technologies: NextGen Innovations in Preservation and Education)
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26 pages, 339 KB  
Article
The Heritage Diplomacy Spectrum: A Multidimensional Typology of Strategic, Ethical, and Symbolic Engagements
by Izabella Parowicz
Heritage 2025, 8(10), 409; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage8100409 - 29 Sep 2025
Viewed by 385
Abstract
Cultural heritage is increasingly mobilized as a tool of international engagement, yet the diplomatic uses of heritage remain conceptually underdeveloped and analytically fragmented. This paper introduces the Heritage Diplomacy Spectrum, a multidimensional framework that maps how states and affiliated actors use heritage—both [...] Read more.
Cultural heritage is increasingly mobilized as a tool of international engagement, yet the diplomatic uses of heritage remain conceptually underdeveloped and analytically fragmented. This paper introduces the Heritage Diplomacy Spectrum, a multidimensional framework that maps how states and affiliated actors use heritage—both tangible and intangible—to pursue strategic, symbolic, and normative goals in cross-border contexts. Drawing on critical heritage studies, international relations, and memory politics, this study identifies six analytical dimensions (e.g., proactive vs. reactive, cultural vs. historical, strategic vs. moral) and develops seven ideal types of heritage diplomacy, ranging from soft power projection to post-dependency and corrective diplomacy. These ideal types, constructed in the Weberian tradition, serve as heuristic tools to illuminate the varied motivations and diplomatic postures underlying heritage-based engagement. A central matrix is presented to illustrate how each type aligns with different strategic logics and affective registers. This study argues that heritage diplomacy constitutes a distinct modality of heritage governance—one that transcends soft power narratives and encompasses conflict, reconciliation, symbolic redress, and identity assertion. The framework contributes both to theory-building and policy analysis, offering a diagnostic lens through which the ethical, political, and communicative dimensions of heritage diplomacy can be more systematically understood. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cultural Heritage)
16 pages, 2536 KB  
Article
Research on Optimization of Tourism Spatial Structure of Linear Cultural Heritage: A Case Study of the Beijing–Hangzhou Grand Canal
by Shuying Zhang, Wenting Yu and Jiasheng Cui
Heritage 2025, 8(10), 408; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage8100408 - 29 Sep 2025
Viewed by 295
Abstract
Linear cultural heritage poses significant challenges in tourism development, primarily due to the complexities involved in implementing scientific zoning and differentiated management strategies. Systematic optimization of its tourism spatial structure has thus become crucial for achieving sustainable utilization. This study adopts a case [...] Read more.
Linear cultural heritage poses significant challenges in tourism development, primarily due to the complexities involved in implementing scientific zoning and differentiated management strategies. Systematic optimization of its tourism spatial structure has thus become crucial for achieving sustainable utilization. This study adopts a case study approach based on deductive reasoning to examine the morphological characteristics and evolutionary patterns of the tourism space along linear cultural heritage. Taking the Beijing–Hangzhou Grand Canal as an example, it proposes a targeted optimization pathway from a spatial positioning perspective. The findings indicate that the tourism value of linear cultural heritage exhibits a “vine-shaped structure” spatially, and the development process of the tourism space structure follows the “growth pole” evolution law. Moreover, spatial optimization can be achieved through the dual dimensions of spatial form and utilization intensity. Based on this pathway, a three-level tourism zone system is constructed for the Beijing–Hangzhou Grand Canal: the primary tourism zone, located in southern sections, such as Yangzhou and Hangzhou, serves as leading regions that play a pivotal and driving role; the secondary tourism zone, encompassing Beijing, Tianjin, Langfang, and Cangzhou, requires focused enhancement and functional upgrading; and the tertiary tourism zone, mainly including Shandong Province and Xuzhou, Suqian, in Jiangsu Province, necessitate comprehensive and integrated development to achieve overall improvement. This classification not only facilitates coordinated tourism development along the entire canal from a holistic perspective but also provides a basis for formulating targeted strategies for segments with varying tourism values and utilization intensities. Full article
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22 pages, 3413 KB  
Article
Climate Pressures on Intangible Heritage
by Jenny Richards and Peter Brimblecombe
Heritage 2025, 8(10), 407; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage8100407 - 28 Sep 2025
Viewed by 530
Abstract
Intangible heritage comprises a wealth of knowledge, crafts, and skills that are passed down through the generations, embodied in our cultural practices. Many of these intertwine with landscape and environment; so, they are sensitive to climate change. While there have been studies of [...] Read more.
Intangible heritage comprises a wealth of knowledge, crafts, and skills that are passed down through the generations, embodied in our cultural practices. Many of these intertwine with landscape and environment; so, they are sensitive to climate change. While there have been studies of the impact of climate change on intangible heritage, these typically use heritage as a lens to examine climate impacts. There are few assessments of specific climate processes that threaten heritage. A climate-based approach allows researchers to identify mechanisms of change and quantify past impacts and project these into the future to give a sense of management options. We explore the threats to UNESCO domains of intangible heritage using weather and climate data from a range of sources to assess threats demonstrating the importance of data-informed approaches and show that timing of season and frequency of extreme events are important in climate-based assessments. These play out over different spatial and temporal scales that reveal elements of sensitivity to environmental change. The management response to the climate threat seems in need of a rights-based approach to empower those who own, safeguard, or practice the heritage. Research to enhance conservation should be translated into a form that speaks to local values and social structures. Full article
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