Heritage

38 pages, 171522 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Black Lines in Piet Mondrian’s Paintings (1921–1938)

by Inez Dorothé van der Werf, Wietse Coppes, Markus Gross, Friederike Steckling, Klaas Jan van den Berg, Suzan de Groot, Cathja Hürlimann, Rika Pause and Saskia Smulders

Heritage 2026, 9(6), 245; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage9060245 - 22 Jun 2026

Viewed by 615

Abstract

This research provides new insights into the materials, methods of application and modification of the black lines used by Piet Mondrian (1872–1944) in his Neoplastic works. Interesting information was gained from letters and studio photographs, the making of mock-ups and reconstructions, and the [...] Read more.

This research provides new insights into the materials, methods of application and modification of the black lines used by Piet Mondrian (1872–1944) in his Neoplastic works. Interesting information was gained from letters and studio photographs, the making of mock-ups and reconstructions, and the in-depth study of four paintings, dated between 1921 and 1938, in the collection of Fondation Beyeler (Riehen/Basel, Switzerland)—Tableau I (1921–1925), Composition with yellow and blue (1932), Composition with double line and blue (1935) and Picture no. III (1938)—as well as the examination of an unfinished painting, Composition with red (1934, private collection). The four paintings were investigated with high-magnification stereomicroscopy, technical photography in transmitted light and raking light, X-rays and infrared reflectography. Detailed information about the buildup and composition of the layers was gathered with the study of cross sections and microsamples, using optical microscopy and chemical analyses. It was shown that Mondrian frequently moved the lines and changed their width up to the very last working phase and, probably, did not use a ruler in the traditional sense to achieve straight lines. In one of the works, Mondrian even employed a pencil, tracing a groove in the wet paint to accentuate straight edges. The black lines consist of multiple paint layers of diluted bone black oil paint, added with small amounts of coloured paint, alternated with thin oil-resin layers, sometimes containing lead white particles. Finally, a thin (pigmented) oil-resin finish was applied on top of the black line. Full article

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12 pages, 225 KB

Open AccessArticle

Heritage Literacy: A Different Understanding of Heritage Management

by Darko Babić and Helena Stublić

Heritage 2026, 9(6), 243; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage9060243 - 22 Jun 2026

Viewed by 429

Abstract

Heritage management has traditionally been shaped by what Laurajane Smith termed the “authorized heritage discourse,” wherein a narrow group of professionals determines values and meanings on behalf of broader communities. This article argues that a more inclusive, socially responsible model of heritage management [...] Read more.

Heritage management has traditionally been shaped by what Laurajane Smith termed the “authorized heritage discourse,” wherein a narrow group of professionals determines values and meanings on behalf of broader communities. This article argues that a more inclusive, socially responsible model of heritage management is both possible and necessary. Drawing on three convergent intellectual traditions—heritage interpretation as originally formulated by Freeman Tilden, eco-museums and the new museology born from the Santiago de Chile Round Table of 1972, and the human-rights-based framework for cultural heritage enshrined in the Council of Europe’s Faro Convention of 2005—the article proposes “heritage literacy” as a conceptual synthesis which can bridge these streams. Heritage literacy denotes a form of socially responsible heritage management that empowers citizens to understand the processes through which heritage is constructed, to participate actively in its interpretation, and to direct their own development through it. The article demonstrates that heritage literacy operates simultaneously as knowledge/wisdom management and as a democratic practice, arguing that it should be recognized as an essential dimension of (cultural/heritage-related) human rights. By tracing the theoretical genealogy of each contributing tradition and synthesizing them into a unified framework, this article offers both a conceptual contribution to heritage studies and a practical orientation for heritage professionals and policymakers seeking to move beyond top–down models of heritage governance. Full article

29 pages, 76218 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Invisible Hydraulic Heritage of Bologna: Strategies for the Promotion and Interpretation of Its Urban Canals

by Álvaro Gil-Plana, Patricia Hernández-Lamas, Beatriz Cabau-Anchuelo and Jorge Bernabéu-Larena

Heritage 2026, 9(6), 244; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage9060244 - 21 Jun 2026

Viewed by 483

Abstract

The city of Bologna (Italy) boasts an outstanding hydraulic heritage linked to the development of the silk industry, embodied in an extensive and valuable canal network. These public works, such as the Canale di Reno and the Canale Navile, were fundamental to the [...] Read more.

The city of Bologna (Italy) boasts an outstanding hydraulic heritage linked to the development of the silk industry, embodied in an extensive and valuable canal network. These public works, such as the Canale di Reno and the Canale Navile, were fundamental to the urban and economic shaping of the city from the Middle Ages onwards; however, many were concealed or dismantled from the 19th century. This article analyses recent heritage engagement and dissemination strategies regarding Bologna’s historic canals and proposes new tools to overcome their spatial fragmentation and enhance their interpretation as a continuous network. The methodology combines analysis, fieldwork or valorisation of the hydraulic system, proposing two complementary promotion actions: the design of a mobile application and the development of a straightforward urban intervention consisting of linear pavement marking of the underground canals layout. The proposed operational hypotheses suggest that integrating digital resources with on-site signage brings invisible heritage to light, improves the spatial understanding of the hydraulic system, and fosters both community and tourist engagement. The study concludes that these strategies reinforce the territorial understanding and social awareness of civil engineering heritage, offering a transferable approach for the outreach of hydraulic networks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Heritage and Tourism: Balancing Education, Innovation, and Sustainable Development)

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18 pages, 2243 KB

Open AccessArticle

Biocide Treatments on Stone Materials from Pompeii: Microbial Selection, Efficacy and Emerging Risks

by Giancarlo Ranalli, Pilar Bosch-Roig, Claudio Caprari, Francesca Decorosi, Laura Rampazzi, Gabriella Saviano, Carlo Viti and Elisabetta Zanardini

Heritage 2026, 9(6), 242; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage9060242 - 19 Jun 2026

Viewed by 477

Abstract

At the archeological site of Pompeii, the deterioration of exposed structures is frequently associated with the combined action of microbial colonization and soluble salts, both recognized as major agents of decay affecting ancient surfaces. Although biocides are commonly applied during cleaning procedures to [...] Read more.

At the archeological site of Pompeii, the deterioration of exposed structures is frequently associated with the combined action of microbial colonization and soluble salts, both recognized as major agents of decay affecting ancient surfaces. Although biocides are commonly applied during cleaning procedures to reduce microbial biomass, their incorporation into restoration-oriented formulations for the protection of porous stone substrates requires careful assessment of efficacy, microbiological risks, and sustainability. This study evaluated the performance of 2,4,5,6-tetrachloroisophthalonitrile (chlorothalonil) and iodopropynyl butylcarbamate (IPBC) as candidate active ingredients for conservation applications in activated new mortars. Yellow tuff, gray tuff, and brick samples collected from different sectors of Pompeii were investigated through culture-based analyses, ATP quantification, and metabolic profiling. Biocidal treatments were subsequently tested under laboratory conditions. The investigated substrates exhibited variable microbial counts and metabolic activity, generally reflecting different degrees of deterioration. Chlorothalonil showed negligible inhibitory effects, whereas IPBC reduced fungal growth in a dose-dependent manner. However, the highest IPBC concentration induced a red chromatic alteration associated with the selection of a bacterial strain preliminarily identified as Micrococcus roseus. Phenotype microarray analyses revealed broad chemical tolerance. Overall, biocidal treatments may alter microbial communities, favor tolerant microorganisms, and produce undesirable aesthetic effects. Finally, the study also assessed the environmental impact associated with laboratory and field activities, highlighting potential mitigation strategies to support more sustainable conservation research practices. Full article

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36 pages, 34911 KB

Open AccessArticle

Saimaluu-Tash I Rock Art (Kyrgyzstan): An Integrated Petrographic, Petrophysical, and Iconographic Study

by David M. Freire-Lista, Ramón Jiménez-Martínez, Javier Luengo, Asunción de los Ríos, Sergio Pérez-Ortega, Julia García-Oteyza and Aidai Sulaimanova

Heritage 2026, 9(6), 241; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage9060241 - 19 Jun 2026

Viewed by 2014

Abstract

Saimaluu-Tash I, located in a high-altitude glacial valley in Kyrgyzstan, preserves one of Central Asia’s largest and most culturally significant concentrations of rock engravings. Despite extensive archaeological research, the physical, mechanical, and chromatic properties of the sandstone substrates relevant for conservation assessment remain [...] Read more.

Saimaluu-Tash I, located in a high-altitude glacial valley in Kyrgyzstan, preserves one of Central Asia’s largest and most culturally significant concentrations of rock engravings. Despite extensive archaeological research, the physical, mechanical, and chromatic properties of the sandstone substrates relevant for conservation assessment remain poorly characterized. This study integrates petrographic microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, colorimetry, and Vickers hardness testing with the digital documentation of twelve engraved blocks to evaluate weathering processes, engraving practices, and long-term preservation. The engravings are carved into arkosic sandstone with carbonate cement, characterized by a weathered surface enriched in clay minerals and covered by a dark surface coating (patina). Weathered surfaces exhibit significantly lower hardness (0.6 ± 0.2 GPa) than unweathered stone (2.8 ± 0.6 GPa), which facilitated the engraving of the petroglyphs by allowing tools to penetrate more deeply into the stone. Colorimetric analyses reveal a strong chromatic contrast between the surface patina and the lighter sandstone exposed by engraving (ΔE ≈ 22.7). This contrast would have enhanced the original visibility of the petroglyphs and highlights potential conservation issues associated with the progressive reformation of this surface layer. Iconographic analysis identifies recurrent themes related to hunting, herding, mobility, animal management, and symbolic spatial practices within a nomadic high-mountain landscape. Overall, the results demonstrate how an integrated material and interpretative approach contributes to understanding rock art production processes. They support preventive and sustainable conservation strategies for vulnerable engraving landscapes shaped by long-term interactions between geological processes and human activity. 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, 8974 KB

Open AccessArticle

An Interoperable Framework for Heritage Building Monitoring Integrating IFC-BIM, CityGML, and Immersive Visualization

by Lea Kristi Agustina, Deni Suwardhi, Iwan Purnama, Ketut Wikantika, Ilham Gumeraruloh Arianto, Wahyunan Andika and Agung Budi Harto

Heritage 2026, 9(6), 240; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage9060240 - 18 Jun 2026

Viewed by 381

Abstract

Preserving cultural heritage sites requires an interoperable digital framework capable of integrating heterogeneous spatial data and supporting immersive interaction for inspection and management. This study investigates the integration of multiple heritage data representations—including IFC-based Heritage Building Information Modeling (HBIM), terrestrial and UAV LiDAR [...] Read more.

Preserving cultural heritage sites requires an interoperable digital framework capable of integrating heterogeneous spatial data and supporting immersive interaction for inspection and management. This study investigates the integration of multiple heritage data representations—including IFC-based Heritage Building Information Modeling (HBIM), terrestrial and UAV LiDAR point clouds, and 3D Gaussian Splatting reconstructions—into a unified digital management environment for the East Hall (Aula Timur) heritage site within the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB) campus. A semantic–spatial interoperability workflow is proposed to harmonize BIM, point cloud, and landscape-scale data within a common georeferenced context, supported by a CityGML-based base map of the surrounding site. An immersive virtual environment was implemented using a head-mounted display to enable walkthrough-based inspection and damage annotation. All datasets were georeferenced within a unified coordinate system, allowing spatial registration between digital objects and the physical heritage site. The results demonstrate that multi-source heritage datasets can be integrated with high geometric accuracy, achieving TLS registration errors of approximately 2 mm and georeferencing residuals within 11.1 cm (horizontal) and 0.95 cm (vertical), while preserving semantic information and ensuring spatial coherence across HBIM, GIS, and immersive environments. The system is implemented in VR, with an architecture designed to support future MR-based on-site annotation and visualization. The proposed framework establishes a foundation for future heritage digital twin deployments and supports informed conservation decisions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Digital Heritage)

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26 pages, 6221 KB

Open AccessArticle

From Stakeholder Value Perceptions to Collaborative Interpretation in World Cultural Heritage Management: Evidence from the Longmen Grottoes (China)

by Wanqing Li, Hazrina Haja Bava Mohidin and Zuraini Md Ali

Heritage 2026, 9(6), 239; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage9060239 - 18 Jun 2026

Viewed by 409

Abstract

UNESCO promotes multi-stakeholder collaborative planning in World Cultural Heritage management. However, while previous studies on heritage interpretation have identified differences in stakeholder values, they have rarely shown how such differences can be translated into decision-relevant evidence to support collaborative interpretation. Using the Longmen [...] Read more.

UNESCO promotes multi-stakeholder collaborative planning in World Cultural Heritage management. However, while previous studies on heritage interpretation have identified differences in stakeholder values, they have rarely shown how such differences can be translated into decision-relevant evidence to support collaborative interpretation. Using the Longmen Grottoes, a World Cultural Heritage site in China, as a case study, this study aims to transform stakeholders’ perceptions of value into evidence for collaborative interpretation within the context of World Cultural Heritage management. This study uses a mixed-methods design, integrating semi-structured interviews, questionnaire surveys, analytic hierarchy process (AHP) analysis, and semantic analysis of official policy discourse. This study compares the value perception of experts, the religious group, residents, tourism operators, and visitors, as well as the value priorities of experts and non-experts, and examines the alignment of these values with official management discourses. The findings indicate that divergences among stakeholder groups in value priorities and the official discourse system are structured primarily around expert-driven priorities, while the discourse of the religious group and the secular public are not fully reflected. This study integrates bottom-up stakeholder data with top-down policy discourse, demonstrating how value differences can be transformed into structured evidence to inform collaborative interpretation. These findings provide empirical support for management strategies in World Cultural Heritage. Full article

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24 pages, 50831 KB

Open AccessArticle

Conservation Beyond Geometry: Hybrid 3D Documentation and Digital Restoration of a Byzantine Leather Bag from Rhodes

by Eleftheria Iakovaki, Markos Konstantakis, Georgios Koutsouflakis, Ekaterini Malea and Dimitrios Makris

Heritage 2026, 9(6), 238; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage9060238 - 18 Jun 2026

Viewed by 257

Abstract

The documentation and reconstruction of fragile underwater organic artifacts remain among the most challenging tasks in digital heritage practice. This study presents a conservation-first, contact-minimizing protocol applied to a rare Byzantine leather bag recovered from the commercial port of Rhodes, Greece. Due to [...] Read more.

The documentation and reconstruction of fragile underwater organic artifacts remain among the most challenging tasks in digital heritage practice. This study presents a conservation-first, contact-minimizing protocol applied to a rare Byzantine leather bag recovered from the commercial port of Rhodes, Greece. Due to its incomplete preservation and structural instability, exclusively non-invasive methodologies were employed. High-resolution close-range photogrammetry and structured-light 3D scanning were integrated to capture both micro-topographic detail and metrically stable geometry. Quantitative deviation analysis (nearest-neighbor cloud-to-mesh distances) indicated that most geometric differences remain below 0.5 mm. The resulting models were processed through controlled mesh optimization, UV remapping, and conservation-oriented digital completion workflows. In addition, radiance field visualization techniques such as Gaussian Splatting were explored as complementary visualization approaches for incomplete geometries. These methods were evaluated primarily in terms of visual continuity and interpretative support rather than as reconstruction tools. The study demonstrates that the integration of photogrammetry, structured-light scanning, and Gaussian Splatting can significantly enhance the documentation and visualization of fragile underwater organic heritage. At the same time, it highlights the necessity of methodological transparency and ethical framing when incorporating probabilistic reconstructions into conservation workflows. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue State of the Art in Underwater Cultural Heritage: Policies in the Era of Blue Economy and Incorporation into Maritime Spatial Planning)

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22 pages, 14170 KB

Open AccessArticle

A YOLO-Based Workflow for Detecting and Mapping Archaeological Stone Cairns in Satellite Imagery: A Case Study from Western Ennedi, Chad

by Ebrahim Ghaderpour, Clarisse Djetounako Nekoulnang, Hamdji Milman Noudjiko, Pier Paolo Rossi, Rocco Rotunno and Savino di Lernia

Heritage 2026, 9(6), 237; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage9060237 - 18 Jun 2026

Viewed by 295

Abstract

Automated detection of archaeological stone cairns using high-resolution satellite imagery offers a scalable approach for documenting vulnerable heritage landscapes in the Ennedi Massif, where extensive and remote terrain limits traditional field survey, and rapid documentation is required. This study presents a GIS and [...] Read more.

Automated detection of archaeological stone cairns using high-resolution satellite imagery offers a scalable approach for documenting vulnerable heritage landscapes in the Ennedi Massif, where extensive and remote terrain limits traditional field survey, and rapid documentation is required. This study presents a GIS and deep learning framework based on the YOLOv8 model to identify and map stone cairns using Google Satellite RGB imagery at 28.5 cm spatial resolution. Ground-truth data collected via GPS field survey were used to train and validate YOLOv8n. The study area was divided into two regions with contrasting terrain and illumination conditions to evaluate model transferability. The training region included 149 verified cairns, while the independent test region included 103 cairns. Early stopping reduced overfitting, reaching mAP50 of 99.5% and mAP50–95 of 94.3%. A density-based spatial clustering algorithm was applied to merge overlapping detections and generate circular cairn representations. On the test set, the model achieved 83.5% precision, recall, and F1-score, indicating stable performance under the selected operational configuration. Comparison with YOLOv5n showed slightly higher localization accuracy for YOLOv8n, while YOLOv5n yielded marginally higher precision and F1-score. Overall, the framework provides a non-invasive tool for large-scale archaeological prospection and heritage monitoring in remote desert environments. Full article

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1 pages, 1403 KB

Open AccessCorrection

Correction: Kyriakou, V.; Panoskaltsis, V.P. Decoding the Microclimate in Subterranean Heritage Structures. Heritage 2026, 9, 194

by Vasiliki Kyriakou and Vassilis P. Panoskaltsis

Heritage 2026, 9(6), 236; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage9060236 - 17 Jun 2026

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Abstract

In the original publication [...] Full article

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37 pages, 29281 KB

Open AccessArticle

Spatial Organization of the Iksan Ssangneung Neungwon: A GIS-Based Visual Analysis

by Hyeonghoo Park and Youngjae Lim

Heritage 2026, 9(6), 235; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage9060235 - 16 Jun 2026

Viewed by 249

Abstract

This study examines the spatial organization of the Iksan Ssangneung neungwon, a late Baekje royal tomb precinct located in Iksan, southwestern Korea, and associated with the Sabi period. It analyzes visual differentiation, defined here as the graded variation in visual relationships between the [...] Read more.

This study examines the spatial organization of the Iksan Ssangneung neungwon, a late Baekje royal tomb precinct located in Iksan, southwestern Korea, and associated with the Sabi period. It analyzes visual differentiation, defined here as the graded variation in visual relationships between the Daewangneung and the Sowangneung along a movement sequence. The study uses an integrated GIS-based analysis of terrain, hydrology, and movement-based visual differentiation. A ridge-based approach sequence is defined using topographic and hydrological criteria, and observation points are generated at fixed intervals. Construct Sight Lines analysis measures vertical prominence, angular separation, and visual intensity, which are integrated into a composite index. The results show that, within this modeled ridge-based approach scenario, visual differentiation is unevenly distributed along the approach sequence. Composite values increase toward a restricted central segment of the modeled route and decrease toward the transitional and outer segments. The highest values coincide with the burial mounds and the Seogwangdong architectural locus. Movement along the ridge is associated with intensified visual differentiation centered on the Daewangneung, whereas the architectural locus appears to create a local viewing condition in which the visual contrast between the two mounds is moderated. The results suggest that, within this route-dependent reconstruction, spatial organization can be examined as a measurable pattern of graded visual differentiation shaped by topography, hydrology, movement, and locally differentiated viewing conditions. Full article

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22 pages, 37996 KB

Open AccessArticle

Heritage Management and Early Human Evolution: Melka Kunture as a Model for In Situ Musealisation in the Eastern African Rift

by Andrea Serodio Domínguez, Eduardo Méndez-Quintas, Adugna Debalike, Tesfaye Aragie, Rita T. Melis, Patricia Bello-Alonso, Giuseppina Mutri, Giuseppe Briatico, Flavio Altamura and Margherita Mussi

Heritage 2026, 9(6), 234; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage9060234 - 16 Jun 2026

Viewed by 662

Abstract

The eastern African archaeological record is central to understanding early human evolution, yet its Pleistocene sites often present major challenges for public interpretation due to their open-air character and limited monumentality. In this context, in situ musealisation has emerged as a key strategy [...] Read more.

The eastern African archaeological record is central to understanding early human evolution, yet its Pleistocene sites often present major challenges for public interpretation due to their open-air character and limited monumentality. In this context, in situ musealisation has emerged as a key strategy for combining conservation, research, and public access. This paper examines the historical development of such practices in eastern African archaeology through a comparative assessment of major sites, including Olorgesailie, Kariandusi, Isimila, and Olduvai Gorge, with particular emphasis on the Melka Kunture and Balchit (Ethiopia) archaeological complex. The analysis shows that early initiatives were largely experimental, frequently linked to specific academic events or tourism development, and commonly based on the direct exposure of archaeological surfaces, which generated important conservation and research constraints. By contrast, Melka Kunture represents a more integrated management model that combines landscape-scale interpretation, controlled visitor itineraries, multilingual outreach, high-resolution documentation, and the strategic use of replicas in a sensitive context. Recently inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, the site illustrates how Pleistocene heritage can be made publicly accessible without compromising scientific integrity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Strategies and Challenges in the Conservation and Management of Paleolithic Sites and Landscapes)

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25 pages, 747 KB

Open AccessArticle

Towards Heritage World Models

by George Pavlidis, Vasileios Sevetlidis and Vasileios Arampatzakis

Heritage 2026, 9(6), 233; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage9060233 - 13 Jun 2026

Viewed by 503

Abstract

Digital twins have become a central paradigm for cultural heritage documentation, monitoring, and preventive preservation. Yet, when cultural heritage systems promise prediction, simulation, intervention planning, and decision support, a more explicit account is needed of the computational commitments behind such claims. This position [...] Read more.

Digital twins have become a central paradigm for cultural heritage documentation, monitoring, and preventive preservation. Yet, when cultural heritage systems promise prediction, simulation, intervention planning, and decision support, a more explicit account is needed of the computational commitments behind such claims. This position paper proposes the notion of the heritage world model as a conceptual and architectural abstraction that uses the semantic digital twin as its representational layer and extends it toward prediction, memory, uncertainty-aware reasoning, and intervention evaluation. We define a heritage world model as a structured, temporally updated, semantically grounded, and action-aware model of a heritage asset and its preservation environment, capable of integrating observations, estimating latent risk states, predicting plausible future trajectories, and evaluating interventions under uncertainty. The paper does not present a validated deployed system. Rather, it clarifies the architectural conditions under which a decision-support digital twin infrastructure could support the kind of world-model-like preservation system proposed here. It further argues that such a model becomes operationally meaningful only when it includes a human-supervised controller layer that maps semantic state, predicted risk trajectories, uncertainty, memory, and institutional constraints into preservation-relevant actions, alerts, monitoring adaptations, or requests for expert review. Sensor data, remote sensing, computational models, risk assessments, policies, and conservation actions are interpreted as possible observational, dynamic, and intervention layers of a heritage world model. The paper reviews adjacent work in heritage digital twins, semantic and reactive ontologies, risk-aware preservation, agentic AI, and modern AI world models, and proposes a research agenda for moving toward predictive, memory-bearing, and intervention-aware preservation intelligence. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Spatial Data Science for Cultural Heritage Climatic Change Risk Assessment and Mitigation)

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30 pages, 3735 KB

Open AccessReview

Multidimensional Analysis of HBIM Segmentation: A Roadmap Towards Standardization

by Demitrios Galanakis, Emmanuel Maravelakis, Nectarios Vidakis, Markos Petousis, Antonios Konstantaras and Massimiliano Pepe

Heritage 2026, 9(6), 232; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage9060232 - 12 Jun 2026

Viewed by 483

Abstract

This paper presents a multidimensional analysis of Historic Building Information Modeling (HBIM) segmentation, offering a roadmap towards standardization, a key dimension towards broader adoption within the Cultural Heritage (CH) sector. HBIM faces multiple challenges related to the lack of standardized protocols and varying [...] Read more.

This paper presents a multidimensional analysis of Historic Building Information Modeling (HBIM) segmentation, offering a roadmap towards standardization, a key dimension towards broader adoption within the Cultural Heritage (CH) sector. HBIM faces multiple challenges related to the lack of standardized protocols and varying definitions of Level of Detail (LOD) across applications. Amid the advancements of the fourth industrial revolution, integrating Building Information Modeling (BIM) improves sustainability and digital governance, aligning with the sustainable development agenda. Despite increasing academic interest, the implementation of HBIM remains limited, primarily due to the complexities and heterogeneities inherent in CH artifacts. This study begins with a purely qualitative strategy. Then, it introduces multidimensional and hierarchical clustering analysis to classify the unique characteristics of various HBIM applications such as segmentation, input, and data-capturing media. At the same time, it is a tool for fine-tuning keyword-based selection criteria, which is crucial in systematic or semi-systematic surveys in HBIM segmentation. The thematic analysis output is interrupted just before the conceptualization step, and theme extraction is diverted to correspondence analysis implemented in R, an open-source statistical package. Among the key findings of this paper is the classification of four distinct HBIM application clusters, revealing how specific workflows align with data acquisition methods, input formats, and Level of Detail (LOD) requirements. The analysis exposes critical standardization bottlenecks hindering wider-scale industry adoption, highlighting that challenges are domain-specific. Strong evidence shows that 3D modeling has not reached the required maturity level, with persisting challenges distributed non-uniformly within the applications spectrum. Finally, AI-driven automation relates with poor LOD outcome. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applications of Digital Technologies in the Heritage Preservation)

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24 pages, 5075 KB

Open AccessArticle

Red Dyes in Transition: Investigating Natural and Synthetic Colourants in Javanese Batik Textiles by HPLC-DAD-MS/MS and SERS

by Lynn Chua, Diego Tamburini, Miki Komatsu, Peter Lee and Alexandra Green

Heritage 2026, 9(6), 231; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage9060231 - 12 Jun 2026

Viewed by 658

Abstract

Fifty-five batik textiles produced along coastal Java in the late 19th to early 20th century were analysed to study the red dyes and the cotton fabrics. Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS) classified the dyes into six groups and identified 70% of the samples as [...] Read more.

Fifty-five batik textiles produced along coastal Java in the late 19th to early 20th century were analysed to study the red dyes and the cotton fabrics. Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS) classified the dyes into six groups and identified 70% of the samples as Morinda. High-Performance Liquid Chromatography coupled with a diode array detector and tandem Mass Spectrometry (HPLC-DAD-MS/MS) confirmed the SERS results and identified synthetic dyes in the remaining samples, which were used either alone or in mixtures with Morinda or indigo. Synthetic alizarin (C.I. 58000, Mordant Red 11) was the most frequently detected synthetic dye. Auramine O (C.I. 41000, Basic Yellow 2), fuchsin (C.I. 42510, Basic Violet 14), and rhodamine B (C.I. 45170, Basic Violet 10) were occasionally detected. The results also highlighted two possible types of Morinda and two variations of synthetic alizarin. The shades obtained from mixtures of natural and synthetic dyes were visually indistinguishable from those obtained with pure natural or synthetic dye, as confirmed by colourimetry. The variety of dyes and cotton fabrics shared across batik producers makes it challenging to attribute unsigned batiks to specific workshops. Nevertheless, this study demonstrated that synthetic dye uptake during this period was limited and experimental, with natural Morinda remaining the preferred choice despite the availability of European synthetic alternatives. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dyes in History and Archaeology 44)

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32 pages, 17364 KB

Open AccessArticle

Coloring of Spun Glass Figurines Attributed to Nevers—A Huge Variety of Composition Imposed by the Preparation Process

by Philippe Colomban, Gulsu Simsek-Franci and Marie-Lys Chevalier

Heritage 2026, 9(6), 230; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage9060230 - 12 Jun 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 511

Abstract

For the first time, twenty spun polychrome glass figurines (considered as tangible cultural heritage objects) stylistically assigned to workshops of the city of Nevers from the 17th to 19th centuries have been analyzed at the Musée de la Faïence et des Beaux-Arts of [...] Read more.

For the first time, twenty spun polychrome glass figurines (considered as tangible cultural heritage objects) stylistically assigned to workshops of the city of Nevers from the 17th to 19th centuries have been analyzed at the Musée de la Faïence et des Beaux-Arts of Nevers using non-invasive XRF and Raman spectroscopy. The results are compared with those previously obtained for figurines assigned to the Perrot’s Orléans workshop. A wide variety of glass compositions is observed, ranging from lead-free to lead-rich compositions, which are attributed to the preparation technique that involves mixing glass stems of different origins during the creation of the figurine. White opacification is achieved with Ca₂Sb₂O₇. The cobalt source is consistently arsenic-rich, but its composition becomes more complex during the 18th century, indicating the use of different cobalt sources. A variety of lead-tin and Naples yellow pigments are identified. Metal nanoparticles are used for pink, ruby, and carnation colors. The detection of associated arsenic and/or tin supports the identification of the use of gold nanoparticles. Cassiterite and arsenates of lead/calcium/potassium are also detected in a few figurines, probably from a different workshop. This latter opacifier, being more frequent in previously studied artifacts assigned to Orléans, suggests that the assignment to Nevers could be questioned. Aventurine glass is present in two objects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Cultural Heritage)

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32 pages, 1125 KB

Open AccessArticle

Geoethics as a Values Lens; Geoeducation as a Pedagogical Vehicle: A Convergence Framework for Environmental Education

by Alexandros Aristotelis Koupatsiaris and Hara Drinia

Heritage 2026, 9(6), 229; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage9060229 - 7 Jun 2026

Viewed by 1039

Abstract

Anthropocene pressures underscore that human well-being and societal resilience depend on both biodiversity and geodiversity, the latter providing the abiotic foundation of Earth’s life-support systems. Despite increasing emphasis on systems thinking, participation, and action, Environmental Education and Education for Sustainable Development often underrepresent [...] Read more.

Anthropocene pressures underscore that human well-being and societal resilience depend on both biodiversity and geodiversity, the latter providing the abiotic foundation of Earth’s life-support systems. Despite increasing emphasis on systems thinking, participation, and action, Environmental Education and Education for Sustainable Development often underrepresent this abiotic dimension and leave ethical commitments insufficiently articulated. Addressing these gaps, this concept paper develops a convergence framework that integrates geoethics, geoeducation, and geoenvironmental education within the broader domains of EE and ESD. Drawing on interdisciplinary scholarship, geoethics is positioned as a normative lens that clarifies principles for responsible human–Earth relations, including responsibility, justice, respect for Earth processes, transparency in science communication, prudent resource use, and risk-aware decision-making. Geoeducation is conceptualized as the pedagogical vehicle through which these values are translated into competencies such as geoliteracy, systems thinking, critical reflection, ethical deliberation, and evidence-informed action, while geoenvironmental education provides the integrative content domain linking biotic, abiotic, and cultural dimensions. Place-based learning functions as the primary implementation pathway, with protected landscapes and UNESCO Global Geoparks serving as exemplary “living laboratories” where geoconservation, education, and sustainable development are co-produced with local communities. The paper advances three interrelated contributions: (a) a conceptual convergence framework, (b) an operational definition of geoethical awareness, and (c) a programmatic model linking geoethical values to competencies, pedagogies, indicators, and place-based implementation strategies. Operationalized through a Theory of Change and a translation matrix connecting principles to educational outcomes, the framework provides a foundation for future empirical research, curriculum development, teacher education, and the cultivation of geo-citizenship, stewardship, and more resilient human–Earth relationships. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Geoheritage and Geo-Conservation)

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17 pages, 560 KB

Open AccessArticle

From FAIR Principles to Practice: A Case Study of FAIRification in a Heritage Science Data Service

by Ioana Maria Cortea

Heritage 2026, 9(6), 228; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage9060228 - 4 Jun 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 455

Abstract

The FAIR principles have become a central framework for research data management and digital infrastructures, yet their implementation remains challenging within the long-tail of research. This paper examines how FAIR principles can be operationalized in practice through a case study on the FAIRification [...] Read more.

The FAIR principles have become a central framework for research data management and digital infrastructures, yet their implementation remains challenging within the long-tail of research. This paper examines how FAIR principles can be operationalized in practice through a case study on the FAIRification of the INFRA-ART Spectral Library, a specialized heritage science data service hosting multi-analytical spectral datasets related to art and archaeological materials. The FAIRification process was approached as an iterative and incremental workflow structured around three interconnected dimensions: technical interoperability, semantic alignment, and governance-oriented stewardship practices. Implementation activities included machine-actionable metadata exposure, semantic enrichment through ontology mappings and controlled vocabularies, interoperability-oriented infrastructure development, and the adoption of TRUST-aligned governance mechanisms. The results demonstrate substantial improvements in metadata quality, discoverability, interoperability, and repository transparency. At the same time, the FAIRification process highlighted persistent challenges related to fragmented semantic resources, evolving interoperability requirements, limited stewardship capacity, and dependence on project-based funding and institutional support. The study argues that effective FAIRification in long-tail data services depends on context-sensitive and incremental implementation approaches rather than rigid compliance models. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Digital Heritage Preservation and Open Science)

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20 pages, 8046 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Geodiversity of Ranah Minang Silokek Geopark, West Sumatra: Geodynamic Storytelling Through Geosites and Geological Landscapes

by Mirzam Abdurrachman, Idham Andri Kurniawan, Prihadi Sumintadireja, Abdillah Baraas, Firman Sauqi Nur Sabila, Muhammad Bahrun Najah, Moh Fadhly Rizki Yazid, Salma Sakinah, Harry Nuriman, Dian Hadiyansyah, Ridwan Ridwan, Masayuki Sakakibara, Afdal Yulius and Deswira Harneti

Heritage 2026, 9(6), 227; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage9060227 - 3 Jun 2026

Viewed by 687

Abstract

The Ranah Minang Silokek Geopark (RMSG) in West Sumatra is a designated Indonesian National Geopark aspiring for UNESCO Global Geopark status. This study provides a preliminary qualitative inventory of its geodiversity to evaluate its international significance, scientific value, and educational value. Based on [...] Read more.

The Ranah Minang Silokek Geopark (RMSG) in West Sumatra is a designated Indonesian National Geopark aspiring for UNESCO Global Geopark status. This study provides a preliminary qualitative inventory of its geodiversity to evaluate its international significance, scientific value, and educational value. Based on literature synthesis and field investigations at 14 representative geosites, we characterize the lithological, stratigraphic, and geomorphological diversity. The results reveal an exceptional geological record spanning nearly 300 million years, from the Carboniferous–Permian to the Neogene. The geodiversity comprises a complete rock spectrum (sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic), including Paleozoic limestones, Triassic granitoid intrusions, and Cenozoic sedimentary basin deposits. Geomorphological features are equally varied, encompassing extensive karst landscapes, structurally controlled fluvial systems, and tectonic landforms. This remarkable assemblage of geological features provides a coherent narrative of West Sumatra’s evolution, from its origins as part of the Gondwana, through Mesozoic tectonic amalgamation and magmatism, to Cenozoic basin development associated with the Sunda Arc subduction system. The high geodiversity of RMSG not only underscores its potential for international recognition but also offers significant opportunities for geotourism and geo-education, presenting a natural laboratory for understanding the complex geological history of Southeast Asia. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Geoheritage and Geo-Conservation)

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43 pages, 21884 KB

Open AccessArticle

AI-Assisted Visualisation of Heritage Conservation Interventions: An Exploratory Study of Community Preferences

by Hawar Himdad J. Sektani, Fenk D. Miran and Hardi K. Abdullah

Heritage 2026, 9(6), 226; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage9060226 - 2 Jun 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1355

Abstract

Community- and values-based approaches to the conservation of architectural heritage are increasingly emphasised. Yet empirical evidence on how local communities assess the potential of interventions for built heritage remains limited. Hence, when examining heritage interventions based on prevailing theories, visual scenario testing is [...] Read more.

Community- and values-based approaches to the conservation of architectural heritage are increasingly emphasised. Yet empirical evidence on how local communities assess the potential of interventions for built heritage remains limited. Hence, when examining heritage interventions based on prevailing theories, visual scenario testing is considered a significant communication tool. Therefore, this study investigates local community preferences for different intervention levels in Koya City’s urban heritage using Artificial Intelligence (AI)-assisted visualisations that span a continuum of interventions. The visualisations serve as the basis for the survey, which was used to explore local preferences for the various heritage intervention scenarios. The correspondence between the AI-assisted visuals and the theoretical interventions was assessed by experts before the survey. The findings suggest that low- to moderate-intensity conservation strategies that preserve architectural character are consistently preferred by the survey community. In contrast, interventions that involved considerable physical change were markedly less favoured. Results from the expert validation test indicate that low- to moderate-intervention levels were reliably visualised using AI-assisted visualisations, while the higher-intervention levels were considered less representative. The supplementary calibration further highlights the importance of visual granularity in participatory heritage evaluation. However, the study remains exploratory and limited by the use of AI-assisted visualisations, a single case-study context, and the difficulty of translating nuanced conservation doctrines into visually discrete categories. This study makes a dual contribution by providing empirical evidence of local preferences across a continuum of conservation interventions, and by proposing an AI-assisted visual methodology to bridge expert conservation theory with public understanding. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Generative AI and Cultural Heritage: Opportunities, Challenges, and Ethical Frontiers)

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27 pages, 43994 KB

Open AccessArticle

Integrating Digital Holography and Molecular Dynamics for Non-Destructive 3D Characterization and Deterioration Mechanism Analysis of Subsurface Microcracks in Mural Paintings

by Huiling Zhang, Wenjing Zhou, Sihan Chen, Guanghua Li, Liang Qu, Yao Chen, Yingjie Yu and Vivi Tornari

Heritage 2026, 9(6), 225; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage9060225 - 2 Jun 2026

Viewed by 340

Abstract

The detection and degradation analysis of subsurface microcracks in mural paintings remain challenging due to their inhomogeneous multilayered structure and complex deterioration mechanisms. In this study, we propose a multimodal stepwise method for three-dimensional characterization and cross-scale degradation analysis by integrating digital holography [...] Read more.

The detection and degradation analysis of subsurface microcracks in mural paintings remain challenging due to their inhomogeneous multilayered structure and complex deterioration mechanisms. In this study, we propose a multimodal stepwise method for three-dimensional characterization and cross-scale degradation analysis by integrating digital holography (DH), infrared thermography (IRT), acoustic excitation (AE), and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. In the first step, an adjustable field-of-view (FOV) digital holographic system is developed to capture subsurface deformation under acoustic excitation, enabling high-resolution planar characterization of subsurface microcracks. Infrared thermography is then employed to estimate crack depth through an inverse thermal model, achieving full three-dimensional reconstruction of crack geometry. Based on the reconstructed structures, MD simulations are conducted to investigate the evolution of stress, bond breaking, and crack propagation under varying temperature and humidity conditions, with particular emphasis on water molecule migration and chemically induced degradation. The results demonstrate that environmental factors promote stress concentration and material embrittlement at crack tips, leading to secondary microcrack formation and progressive deterioration. Experimental aging tests show strong agreement with simulation results, validating the proposed methodology. This work establishes a unified “characterization–simulation–validation” paradigm, providing new insights into the mechanisms of mural degradation and offering a robust framework for non-destructive evaluation and preventive conservation of multilayer cultural heritage materials. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multi-Modal Methods for the Inspection of Artworks and Cultural Heritage)

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16 pages, 35774 KB

Open AccessArticle

Traditional Hunting of the Red-Legged Partridge with a Decoy in Extremadura as Intangible Cultural Heritage

by Juan Ignacio Rengifo-Gallego, Santiago M. Cruzada and Luz María Martín Delgado

Heritage 2026, 9(6), 224; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage9060224 - 2 Jun 2026

Viewed by 1465

Abstract

This study examines the traditional hunting of the red-legged partridge using a decoy in Extremadura as an expression of intangible cultural heritage. It is a centuries-old hunting practice that has evolved into a social, recreational, and symbolic activity, closely linked to local identity [...] Read more.

This study examines the traditional hunting of the red-legged partridge using a decoy in Extremadura as an expression of intangible cultural heritage. It is a centuries-old hunting practice that has evolved into a social, recreational, and symbolic activity, closely linked to local identity and to collective memory. The research documents cultural values, the intergenerational transmission of knowledge, and the adaptation of the practice to modernity, highlighting its role in community building and its connection to the territory. Through a mixed-methods approach combining qualitative and ethnographic techniques (participant observation, interviews) and quantitative tools (statistical and cartographic analysis), the study captures the complexity of this hunting modality, including its social, historical and artisanal dimensions. Full article

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31 pages, 14447 KB

Open AccessArticle

Chromatic Signatures and Comprehensive Archaeometric Investigations of Prehistoric Ochre from Southern Romania

by Rodica-Mariana Ion, Monica Mărgărit, Meda Toderaș, Sofia Slămnoiu-Teodorescu, Gabriel Vasilievici and Elvira Alexandrescu

Heritage 2026, 9(6), 223; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage9060223 - 1 Jun 2026

Viewed by 437

Abstract

This study investigates the composition, morphology and cultural significance of red pigment traces identified on bone pointed tools discovered in the Chalcolithic tell settlement of Pietrele–Măgura Gorgana, attributed to the Kodjadermen–Gumelnița–Karanovo VI cultural complex (4600–4250 BC). The observed use-wear patterns are [...] Read more.

This study investigates the composition, morphology and cultural significance of red pigment traces identified on bone pointed tools discovered in the Chalcolithic tell settlement of Pietrele–Măgura Gorgana, attributed to the Kodjadermen–Gumelnița–Karanovo VI cultural complex (4600–4250 BC). The observed use-wear patterns are consistent with repeated contact with soft, non-abrasive materials, including hide working, pigment application on leather or other organic surfaces, fiber manipulation, and perforation of soft substrates. Use-wear analysis revealed polished and flattened distal ends, compatible with repeated use on soft, non-abrasive materials, such as hide, leather, fiber, or other organic substrates. The possibility of pigment application directly on skin, in a practice analogous to tattooing, as previously published, cannot be excluded but remains speculative in the absence of experimental reference data or residue evidence specifically linked to such use. An associated ceramic container was tentatively interpreted as a possible vessel for ochre preparation, suggesting local processing of the pigment. The artifacts were investigated using multi-analytical archaeometric methods: SEM-EDS, AFM, TEM, FTIR, Raman, TGA, CLSM and pseudo-color image segmentation and 3D rendering of porosity distribution. The results consistently identified an iron oxide-based pigment, dominated by hematite and/or goethite, specific to ochre. Pigment particles (50–300 nm) form a well-defined superficial layer on the bone substrate, without Fe–Ca reactions at the interface. The simultaneous presence of Ca, P, Si, Mg and K indicates a silicate matrix with an apatite component, compatible with local and poorly purified raw materials. CIELAB colorimetric analyses revealed significant chromatic variability, suggesting the use of hematite-rich pigments and possible thermal transformations of goethite. The results contribute to the understanding of the pigment technologies of the Chalcolithic communities of the Lower Danube. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Future of Analytical Chemistry and Material Science for Cultural Heritage)

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21 pages, 6299 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Village of Two Times: Fragmented Vernacularism and the Biaxial Ontology of Abandoned Settlements in Jordan

by Rama Al-Rabady and Alaa Khashman

Heritage 2026, 9(6), 222; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage9060222 - 1 Jun 2026

Viewed by 622

Abstract

This article interrogates the ontological paradox of Jordan’s abandoned vernacular villages (kirbeh), which persist as “villages of two times”—simultaneously abandoned yet present for nearby communities. Existing heritage frameworks, focused on material authenticity and physical integrity, cannot fully account for places that endure through [...] Read more.

This article interrogates the ontological paradox of Jordan’s abandoned vernacular villages (kirbeh), which persist as “villages of two times”—simultaneously abandoned yet present for nearby communities. Existing heritage frameworks, focused on material authenticity and physical integrity, cannot fully account for places that endure through absence rather than preservation. In response, we propose a biaxial ontological framework that explains how fragmentation generates new significance over time—a process conventional fragmentation theory overlooks because it treats breakage as loss rather than as what we term “productive fragmentation.” Specifically, the biaxial framework reveals that as material fragments decay and disperse (horizontal axis), they simultaneously acquire temporal depth and existential meaning (vertical axis). This dual process, which we term “productive fragmentation,” is the paper’s core contribution. Drawing on twenty-four semi-structured interviews across five villages, the study advances this biaxial framework by fusing fragmentation theory with concepts of deep urbanity, generative decay, time rupture, and existential displacement. The key finding is that disintegration generates new significance: fragments become more, not less, meaningful as they decay. The framework distinguishes a horizontal axis (spatial dispersal as collage and palimpsest) from a vertical axis (coexistence of multiple temporalities and anchoring of identity across generations). The implication is a paradigm shift: abandoned vernacular heritage embodies a distinct form of life—lived in the enduring presence of absence. By this phrase, we mean that community members experience the abandoned village not as a dead past but as an active presence—through memories, return visits, stories, and portable fragments like soil or keys—even as its material fabric decays. Absence here is not emptiness but a different mode of being present. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Architectural Heritage and Cultural Landscape)

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17 pages, 20037 KB

Open AccessArticle

Laser Cleaning and Patina Depth Profiles of New and Ancient Copper Coins

by Lorenzo Torrisi, Mariapompea Cutroneo and Alfio Torrisi

Heritage 2026, 9(6), 221; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage9060221 - 29 May 2026

Viewed by 682

Abstract

This work presents and discusses a study of the oxidized patina on copper-based coins. Patina layers were characterized after thermal treatments on various coins and calibration samples using X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectroscopy, which was employed to measure oxide layer thicknesses. Laser ablation of [...] Read more.

This work presents and discusses a study of the oxidized patina on copper-based coins. Patina layers were characterized after thermal treatments on various coins and calibration samples using X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectroscopy, which was employed to measure oxide layer thicknesses. Laser ablation of copper-based samples was carried out with an ns pulsed Nd:YAG laser operating at 1064 nm. The ablation yield was measured based on selected laser parameters and is analyzed in relation to controlled cleaning of different types of copper surfaces, either to remove superficial oxides from artistic or manufactured objects or to remove patina from old coins. As a micro-invasive technique, laser ablation may provide a methodological approach for patina thickness assessment and, in carefully controlled and case-specific situations, for selective surface treatment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Corrosion and Conservation: Protecting Metal Artifacts in Cultural Heritage)

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13 pages, 432 KB

Open AccessArticle

Heritage-Making as Cultural Interweaving: A Processual Model from a Transnational Rural Hakka Village

by Hyun Sil Shin and XuYan Chen

Heritage 2026, 9(6), 220; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage9060220 - 28 May 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 316

Abstract

In many rural heritage settings, continuity depends less on static preservation than on the ongoing negotiation of space, governance, and cultural practice. This dynamic is particularly evident in transnational Hakka villages, where lineage networks, migration histories, and everyday adaptation continuously reshape heritage in [...] Read more.

In many rural heritage settings, continuity depends less on static preservation than on the ongoing negotiation of space, governance, and cultural practice. This dynamic is particularly evident in transnational Hakka villages, where lineage networks, migration histories, and everyday adaptation continuously reshape heritage in practice. Existing research, however, often treats material conservation, governance arrangements, and cultural meaning as separate analytical domains, limiting its ability to explain the complexity of lived heritage processes and reducing its relevance for practical heritage management. Drawing on ethnographic fieldwork conducted in Zhongchuan Village, Fujian Province, China, this study employs semi-structured interviews, participant observation, and qualitative thematic analysis to examine how heritage continuity is sustained and transformed through everyday social practice. The findings identify three interrelated dimensions of heritage-making: material–technical adaptation, social–institutional governance, and symbolic–cultural meaning. Based on these interactions, the study develops the Three-Dimensional Cultural Interweaving Model (3D-CCM) as an integrated analytical framework for understanding dynamic heritage processes. By connecting these dimensions, 3D-CCM highlights how rural heritage continuity emerges through the interaction of architectural adaptation, governance negotiation, and cultural interpretation. The study further shows that heritage-making in Zhongchuan Village is shaped not only by local practices and institutional arrangements, but also by ongoing connections within transnational Hakka networks. These findings contribute to current discussions on sustainable rural heritage by emphasizing the importance of community participation, adaptive reuse, and cross-regional cultural relationships. Full article

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24 pages, 5188 KB

Open AccessArticle

Applicability of Polarization Resistance for Assessment of Lead Corrosion State and Efficiency of Stabilization by Carbon Dioxide

by Kristýna Charlotte Schelkalin, Milan Kouřil, Andrei Kazanskii and Matěj Reiser

Heritage 2026, 9(6), 219; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage9060219 - 27 May 2026

Viewed by 262

Abstract

The appearance of a historical metal object and the presence of corrosion products on its surface are not always decisive for assessing the corrosion state of the object. A simple, fast, and instrumentally undemanding technique for measuring the corrosion rate of corroded lead [...] Read more.

The appearance of a historical metal object and the presence of corrosion products on its surface are not always decisive for assessing the corrosion state of the object. A simple, fast, and instrumentally undemanding technique for measuring the corrosion rate of corroded lead is linear polarization resistance. Its value, determined in a non-aggressive electrolyte, tap water, is able to distinguish between a corrosion-active and corrosion-stable state. While the corrosion-active state is characterized by polarization resistance values in the order of tenths of Ω·m², the stable state is characterized by values exceeding 1 Ω·m². Lead acetates formed by reaction with volatile acetic acid, although present in very small quantities that are difficult to detect by XRD, are the cause of increased corrosion rate of lead in the presence of moisture. Acetates can be rapidly transformed into stable carbonates by exposing the object to moistened carbon dioxide. The polarization resistance measured in tap water showed considerable decrease in the corrosion rate of lead after stabilization with carbon dioxide. In contrast, thermal treatment at temperatures up to 70 °C is not as effective in terms of stabilization. Stabilization treatment of historical lead objects with carbon dioxide can be part of an ethoxene disinfection procedure. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Conservation and Restoration of Metal Artifacts)

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30 pages, 8737 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Formal Recognition of Scent as a Cultural Value in Australasian Heritage Registers

by Murray Parker and Dirk H. R. Spennemann

Heritage 2026, 9(6), 218; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage9060218 - 27 May 2026

Viewed by 442

Abstract

Cultural heritage arises from the interactions of people and the connected environment, manifesting in both tangible and intangible forms. Standard management aims to identify and register heritage assets, with subsequent conservation preserving identified values. Australian and New Zealand/Aotearoa heritage-specific legislation enshrines distinct ascribed [...] Read more.

Cultural heritage arises from the interactions of people and the connected environment, manifesting in both tangible and intangible forms. Standard management aims to identify and register heritage assets, with subsequent conservation preserving identified values. Australian and New Zealand/Aotearoa heritage-specific legislation enshrines distinct ascribed values, formed in response to charters presenting heritage philosophies. Recent shifts towards greater acceptance of intangible heritage and emerging scholarly attention towards sensorial aspects (smells and sounds) demonstrate trajectories of change and a broader understanding of heritage theory. How this is exemplified in real-world management is rarely discussed. Taking Australasia as an example, this paper aims to survey values as enshrined in heritage legislation, examine aesthetic value definitions, and investigate recognition of olfactory sensorial aspects in heritage registers. We find that despite aesthetic, historic, and scientific values being commonly presented in the legislation, aesthetic olfactory attributes are largely absent, being recorded in only 0.18% across all heritage entries. Of these, a quarter were attributed significance or value, with the majority of entries being associated with offensive smell mitigation. We find this incongruent with recent scholarly work, and discuss potential reasons thereof, finding there is significant room to develop identification/assessment of olfactory aesthetic heritage. Full article

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19 pages, 3366 KB

Open AccessArticle

Young Audiences’ Perspectives on Traditional Opera Engagement: A Comparative Study of Infrastructural Conditions in China and Italy

by Tianyu Han

Heritage 2026, 9(6), 217; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage9060217 - 26 May 2026

Viewed by 397

Abstract

China and Italy both possess rich operatic traditions, yet both encounter challenges in sustaining engagement among younger generations. This study investigates how infrastructural conditions influencing young audiences’ willingness to experience with traditional opera through a comparative study of two cultural contexts. Drawing on [...] Read more.

China and Italy both possess rich operatic traditions, yet both encounter challenges in sustaining engagement among younger generations. This study investigates how infrastructural conditions influencing young audiences’ willingness to experience with traditional opera through a comparative study of two cultural contexts. Drawing on focus group interviews with participants across both countries, the research examines three interrelated theoretical dimensions: accessibility, experience, and mediation. Through systematic qualitative content analysis, the results indicate that while both Chinese and Italian participants recognized opera as a culturally significant art form, their participation modes differed. In China, attendance was often perceived as a planned and formal activity tied to modern cultural districts, with a strong reliance on media support to reduce entry barriers. In Italy, opera was described as embedded in historical urban environments and social routines, prioritizing the preservation of live performance integrity, maintained through continuity and familiarity. Such findings define opera engagement as a process shaped by interwoven access, experiential, and mediating infrastructures. Overall, this research identifies the needs of young opera audiences in both countries and offers cross-national perspectives for theatrical institutions, aiming to enhance operations and global communication of traditional opera. Full article

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16 pages, 15716 KB

Open AccessArticle

Knidos F, L and N: Three Deep Sea Shipwrecks from the Byzantine Period

by Evren Türkmenoğlu and Dan Davis

Heritage 2026, 9(6), 216; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage9060216 - 25 May 2026

Viewed by 1649

Abstract

This study examines three Byzantine-period amphora carriers (Knidos F, L, and N) discovered off the coast of Knidos within the context of Eastern Mediterranean maritime trade. The research is based on deep-water surveys conducted by ROVs from the E/V Nautilus, combined with [...] Read more.

This study examines three Byzantine-period amphora carriers (Knidos F, L, and N) discovered off the coast of Knidos within the context of Eastern Mediterranean maritime trade. The research is based on deep-water surveys conducted by ROVs from the E/V Nautilus, combined with seabed mapping and typological analysis of amphora assemblages. The Knidos F and L wrecks carried predominantly Günsenin Type I amphorae and date to the 10th–12th centuries, reflecting the revival of Byzantine maritime commerce. Knidos N represents a later, likely 13th-century context with a distinct amphora assemblage. Together, these wrecks highlight the continued commercial significance of the Carian maritime corridor in Byzantine shipping networks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploration and Preservation of Historical Shipwrecks and Maritime Heritage)

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