Cultural Significance Research Articles

Macrolithic retouched blades from Kałdus and Stare Marzy: foreign technology and new ideology in the lithic traditions of the TRB communities in the Lower Vistula region

At the turn of the 20th and 21st century, over a dozen macrolithic retouched blades or their fragments were obtained from archaeological sites at Kałdus and Stare Marzy, located in the Lower Vistula region in northern Poland. The context of deposition links the blades to the settlements of the younger Funnel Beaker culture (3650/3500–3300/3100 BC). This article presents and discusses the results of morphological, technological, and raw material investigations of the macrolithic retouched blades or their fragments from Kałdus and Stare Marzy and relates them to the patterns of use and cultural significance of the macrolithic industry in the local TRB communities. The obtained results show that the retouched blades were made of high-quality flint materials sourced from the Polish and Ukrainian Uplands, namely Świeciechów, Volhynian and Jurassic flints. The results, furthermore, indicate that production technology of macrolithic retouched blades is very specific and, what is more important, it is not rooted in the lithic traditions of the region. Archaeological evidence from this study suggests exceptional patterns of use of macrolithic retouched blades in the Lower Vistula region and their perception by local TRB people, which can be traced to the Eneolithic milieu located southeast of the Polish Lowlands.

A cross-regional examination of camelid herding practices in Peru from 900 BCE to 1450 CE: Insights from stable isotopes in camelid bone collagen and fiber.

The economic, socio-political, and cultural significance of camelids in the Andean region is well-recognized, yet an understanding of their management evolution over pre-historical periods remains limited. This study aims to fill this gap by conducting the first cross-regional assessment of camelid pastoralism in Peru from 900 BCE to 1470 CE, using stable carbon and nitrogen isotopic compositions from the bone collagen and fibers of 577archaeological camelids across 21 sites. This research investigates the spatio-temporal shifts in camelid dietary habits, focusing on how the rise of intensive agriculture may have influenced change and led to the evolution of distinct roles for camelids in coastal versus non-coastal Andean economies. Our analysis indicates an increase in δ13C values over time on the coast, suggesting a shift towards maize-based camelid diets. Conversely, δ13C values decrease over time in highland environments, suggesting camelids consumed relatively more wild C3 forage and/or cultivated crops such as tubers. The study also reveals a significant positive relationship between latitude and δ15N values, suggesting increasing environmental aridity enriches δ15N in bone collagen. After controlling for this latitudinal effect, we observe a rise in δ15N values in both coastal and non-coastal camelids, suggesting that in later periods camelids may have been foddered in agricultural fields that were enriched with guano or dung fertilizer used to intensify production. Importantly, this research uncovers a distinct dietary divergence between coastal and inland camelids. The observed divergence in diets suggests contrasting socio-economic uses of camelids, where coastal camelids were predominantly involved in ceremonial and political activities, while those in non-coastal areas were crucial to the subsistence economy.

A Brief Discussion on Mr. Congzhou Chen's Thoughts on Garden Art

The role and significance of Mr. Chen multiple identities, personal practices, and academic history in the formation of his personal thoughts and theories on the art of gardening are discussed to explore Mr. Chen's inheritance and innovation of Chinese thoughts on landscape gardening. Analyzing Mingxuan, Yuyuan, and Nanyuan from the perspective of poetic and picturesque aesthetics, we discover the course of Mr. Congzhou Chen's gardening ideas and his inheritance and innovation of traditional garden culture. As Mr. Chen said, Mingxuan is an imitation with some new ideas, Yuyuan East is a continuation with some new ideas, and Nanyuan is an independent design, which is a concrete embodiment of his garden theory. The process of gardening is a perfect combination of practice and Concept of Garden Design.Mr. Congzhou Chen's theoretical topics on traditional Chinese gardens are widely spread and far-reaching.

Harnessing Innovation: Exploring the Impact of Market Orientation and Firm Resources on Performance in West Sumatra's Event and Party Services

Marriage holds a sacred significance in Minangkabau culture, representing the pinnacle of the life cycle, where customs transcend mere entertainment to embody profound philosophical and cultural values. Despite the substantial opportunities for party service businesses in West Sumatra, the performance of firms in this sector often falls short of expectations. Observations reveal recurring issues, including vendor delays and dissatisfaction with service quality in areas such as decoration, photography, videography, and catering. These problems are primarily attributed to inadequate resource management and poor strategic decision-making. This study employs explanatory research with a quantitative approach, utilizing hypothesis testing to examine the relationships among market orientation, firm resources, innovation, and firm performance. The validity and reliability of the questionnaire instrument were confirmed to ensure accurate data analysis. The findings demonstrate that, within the context of party service businesses in West Sumatra, both market orientation and firm resources significantly impact innovation and firm performance directly; however, innovation does not serve as an effective mediator in this relationship.

ETHNO-CULTURAL NATURE OF NAMES RELATED TO SACRED PLACES IN SYR REGION

Any nation's unique identity, traditions, material and spiritual heritage, which have formed since ancient times, are a reflection of the life path of that nation. The heritage from ancient times is not only a simple witness of history for today's generation but also a high pillar of our modern culture. Our goal is to increase the need to study and master the material and spiritual heritage through ethnocultural analysis of the names related to sacred places, introducing onyms, previously excluded from research, into scientific discourse. To achieve this objective, it will be essential to solve the following tasks: Separation of the names related to the public and social life of people in the country into several groups; Classify the names of sacred places based on their lexical-semantic types. The methods of analysis, systematization, ethno linguistic analysis of language data, and descriptive approaches were used during the research. An overview of the works of domestic and foreign scientists of the mentioned nature was made. The need to study and promote sacred places is that they have essential historical, cultural and social-political significance. Sacred places show the depth of the roots of ethnic consciousness and the people's high spiritual level; they are also considered one of the key mechanisms of restoration and renewal of ethnic, historical, cultural and religious memory. Twelve objects along the Syr are included in the list of sacred places of Kazakhstan. They are: Shirik-Rabat town, Zhankent town, Begim Ana tower, Zhent, Syganaq town, Oqshy ata mausoleum, Qorasan ata mausoleum, Tolegetai-Qylyshty Ata mausoleum, Zhanqozha batyr mausoleum, Buqarbai batyr mausoleum, Qorqyt Ata monument complex, icon of Mother of God dedicated to the Sacred Kazan Cathedral (Sacred Kazan Cathedral Icon of God's Mother). Some places are not included in this list. Word formation and lexical-semantic analysis of the names of sacred places were made, and their features were highlighted. Although sacred places in the Syr region are studied from a historical-archaeological, literary, and ethnographic point of view, the article was based on studying them from an ethnolinguistic point of view in connection with the national values characteristic of the ethnos.

Culture as a Factor of Continuity in the Development of Society

This article examines the role of culture as a pivotal factor in the continuity and development of society. It explores the dynamics of spiritual culture, highlighting the interconnectedness of historical stages and the processes of inheritance that shape cultural evolution. The discussion draws on insights from prominent philosophers such as Hegel, Plekhanov, and others, emphasizing the dialectical nature of cultural inheritance and the complex relationships between past and present. The article delves into various cultural phenomena, including the Baroque period, folklore, and mythological traditions, illustrating how these elements contribute to the ongoing dialogue between historical legacy and contemporary identity. By analyzing the mechanisms of cultural assimilation and the transformation of ideas over time, the article underscores the significance of understanding cultural heritage as a continuous, evolving process that informs present and future societal values.

How to Realize the Collaborative Supply of Cultural Resource Big Data with Government Participation: Experiences from China

To foster the sustainable development of culture, particularly focusing on the preservation of cultural heritage, encompassing relics, intangible cultural heritage, and historical sites, China has launched a strategy for the digitalization of culture, with the goal of establishing a holistic national big data framework for cultural resources. To improve the efficiency of collaborative supply of cultural resource big data among various parties and to further advance the sustainable development of culture, this research has created a cooperative model that includes cultural institutions, a cultural resource big data service platform, and government participation. Our research findings, based on prospect theory and evolutionary game theory combined with Chinese practice, are presented below. (1) Various factors, including the coefficient of digital infrastructure empowerment, access charges for digital infrastructure, government penalties, and the probability of data leakage, have varying effects on the system in different states. (2) Once the industry has developed, the government can increase the impact of digital infrastructure empowerment to create stronger incentives, rather than relying solely on rewards or penalties. (3) When the value level of cultural resource big data is high, the benefit distribution coefficient does not affect the system evolution results. Finally, we offer practical insights for the government, cultural organizations, and cultural resource big data service platforms based on our research results. Our research offers Chinese insights for global cultural sustainable development.

Exploring the Adaptive Conservation and Development of Chongqing's Historic Buildings

Historical and cultural heritage is an essential part of human civilisation. Nowadays, in the progress of a society that emphasises sustainable development, the simultaneous modernisation and preservation of historical and cultural heritage has become a criterion for the degree of urban advancement. However, in China's large-scale urban renewal and renovation, many old urban structures and historical relics are being submerged by the pace of modernisation. Therefore, we need to strengthen the awareness of protection, while exploring deeply under the conditions of market economy to respond to the historical preservation issues in the development of ancient towns in a flexible and effective way. In tourism development, new ancient towns with traditional market style can be reconstructed to integrate them with modern life. This not only promotes the development of urban characteristics, but also injects new vitality into traditional culture and enriches the historical connotation of the city. However, some worrying situations of historical and cultural preservation have also emerged. For example, some people regard historical culture as a cash cow and blindly carry out temporary imitation of antique commodity blocks, leading to the chaos of cultural landscape; some people carry out one-sided and isolated protection, which makes the historical buildings incompatible with the modern life and so on. Therefore, there is an urgent need for domestic academics to explore effective methods for the conservation and utilisation of historic buildings, so as to ensure that the conservation and development of historic buildings can embark on a healthy path.

Implementation of nature-based solutions (NbS) into conservation practices of urban built heritages in Bangladesh: challenges, possibilities, and prospects.

The preservation of rich cultural and architectural heritages in Bangladesh, alongside its diverse natural environment, is increasingly prioritized through conservation efforts. Integration of Nature-based Solutions (NbS) into these practices, leveraging existing green elements and natural landscapes for cost-effective conservation processes. This research explores the potential of Nature-based Solutions (NbS) within the heritage structures of Bangladesh, identifying feasible areas for implementation and examining the benefits beyond regular conservation process. Nature-based Solutions (NbS) not only aids in preserving heritage but also enhances sustainability in water management, promotes health, sequesters carbon, boosts biodiversity, and improves acoustic comfort. By harnessing nature's resilience, these solutions offer sustainable responses to challenges posed by climate change, urbanization, and industrialization, which also threaten heritage sites. Integrating Nature-based Solutions (NbS) requires effective implementation strategies, policy support, and community engagement to ensure success. In this research, specific study- based method was followed and implemented in some heritage sites to generate suggestive conclusions in case of implementation of Nature-based Solutions (NbS). This study aims to analyze the feasibility and suggest practical approaches for implementing Nature-based solutions (NbS) in the conservation of cultural heritages of Bangladesh, emphasizing resilience, socio-economic benefits, and the preservation of natural and built environments.

Cultural Heritage, Migration, and Land Use Transformation in San José Chiltepec, Oaxaca

Indigenous communities worldwide face increasing challenges from modernization, migration, and economic pressures, which threaten their traditional agricultural systems and cultural heritage. These dynamics often lead to shifts in land use, the erosion of ancestral knowledge, and the weakening of cultural identity. Understanding how these communities adapt to such changes is crucial for sustainable development. This research examines how indigenous communities, particularly San José Chiltepec in Oaxaca, balance the preservation of cultural heritage with adapting to evolving agricultural practices and land use transformations. It emphasizes the critical role of indigenous knowledge in sustainable land management and the importance of cultural identity amidst socio-economic pressures. A mixed-methods approach was employed, integrating geostatistical data, spatial analysis, and qualitative insights from municipal development plans and community-based observations. This provided a detailed understanding of how local conditions and external forces shape land use and conservation. The findings reveal that, while irrigated agriculture and pasturelands have declined, the community has shown resilience through the preservation of seasonal farming and the expansion of secondary vegetation. San José Chiltepec serves as a model for how indigenous communities can maintain cultural and environmental heritage while adapting to modern economic challenges.

The role of international organizations in the protection and restoration of the cultural heritage of Ukraine in the conditions of armed aggression: Financial, economic and legal aspects

The article attempts to analyze the role of international organizations in the protection and restoration of the cultural heritage during war conflicts. The case of Ukrainian ongoing conflict is considered, based on systematization of UNESCO documents and activities, as well as the case of Syria as a ‘testing ground’ for UNESCO in efforts on protection and restoration of cultural heritage damaged due to hostilities. It is claimed that UNESCO in fact showed its low efficiency in protecting cultural heritage, but is capable of providing reasonable steps of post-war restoration and preventing illegal trade of stolen cultural heritage. The expedience of developing international law grounds for protection of cultural heritage is emphasized, together with employing mechanisms of public-private partnership in restoration projects.

Integrating Jun Porcelain Culture into Modern Information Management Systems: A Study on Expanding Cultural Diplomacy Through Innovative Symbol Reconstruction and Digital Communication Techniques

This study explores the relationships between Jun porcelain cultural heritage, modern information management systems, and cultural diplomacy in the digital age. The purpose is to understand how these variables intersect and influence contemporary cultural dynamics, shedding light on the complexities of tradition, innovation, and technology in shaping cultural practices and identities. Through qualitative interviews with 13 experts from cultural institutions, information management professions, and diplomatic spheres, and a comprehensive literature review encompassing databases such as JSTOR, ProQuest, and Google Scholar, this research seeks to elucidate how these variables intersect and influence contemporary cultural dynamics. The choice of qualitative interviews and literature review was made to provide a nuanced understanding of Jun porcelain cultural heritage, information management systems, and cultural diplomacy, leveraging the strengths of qualitative inquiry in capturing rich insights and contextual nuances. These methods offer advantages in uncovering the multifaceted nature of cultural practices, identifying key themes and patterns, and providing new insights into the dynamics of cultural heritage preservation, communication, and diplomatic exchange. The qualitative interviews and literature review revealed several key insights into the relationships between Jun porcelain cultural heritage, modern information management systems, and cultural diplomacy. Themes such as democratization of cultural access, digital inequalities, and cross-cultural dialogue emerged from the analysis, shedding light on the complex dynamics at play. The study builds upon existing research by offering nuanced perspectives on the intersections between tradition, innovation, and technology in shaping cultural practices and identities in the digital age. This research provides recommendations for cultural institutions, policymakers, and information professionals, including developing ethical frameworks for digital preservation, promoting inclusive cultural access, and fostering cross-cultural dialogue through digital diplomacy. Future studies should explore social media's impact on cultural diplomacy, the role of digital archives in preserving intangible cultural heritage, and emerging technologies' implications on cultural heritage interpretation. These efforts will advance understanding in cultural heritage preservation and information management in the digital age.

Exploring Miracles and Wonders in Pre-Modern Korean Society through the Samguk yusa

Samguk yusa 三國遺事 (Memorabilia of the Three Kingdoms), compiled by Iryŏn 一然 (1206–1289), a prominent Buddhist monk in Koryŏ, stands as one of Korea’s most valued historical classics. This classic weaves together a collection of captivating and unconventional narratives—marked by their peculiarity, miracles, and wonder—diverging from the usual societal norms. Unlike traditional historical chronicles such as Samguk sagi 三國史記 (Histories of the Three Kingdoms), Samguk yusa presents a diverse mosaic woven with historical anecdotes, legends, and folklore, especially emphasizing connections to Buddhism. The tales of miraculous events hold historical significance, serving as reflective mirrors that not only shaped the beliefs of pre-modern Korean Buddhists but also influenced the wider population of that era in Korea. This paper delves into the cultural significance and societal roles of miracles and wonders within pre-modern Korean society, particularly through a thorough exploration of narratives and accounts within the Samguk yusa. Through these miraculous stories, the Samguk yusa not only validates the spiritual power of Buddhism but also redefines concepts like filial piety and national protection by integrating them into the Buddhist framework. This ensured Buddhism’s enduring significance in Silla society and reinforced the importance of the supernatural as an integral part of a holistic view of history and culture.

Preservation and Redevelopment of Cultural Heritage Through Public Engagement and University Involvement

Preservation and Redevelopment of Cultural Heritage Through Public Engagement and University Involvement

A Morris Semiotic Perspective on the Characteristics and Cultural Significance of Traditional Guangdong Furniture Patterns

Based on Morris's semiotic theory, this paper systematically analyzes the symbolic features of traditional Guangdong furniture patterns and their cultural symbolism from the three dimensions of semiotics (syntax, semantics, and pragmatics). The study focuses on typical patterns such as dragon and phoenix, pine and crane, plum, orchid, bamboo and chrysanthemum in Guangdong traditional furniture, and explores their historical origins, social functions, and close links with Confucianism, family concepts, and social hierarchies in the context of Lingnan culture. By analyzing these symbols, the paper reveals their special symbolic meanings in different social classes and ritual cultures, as well as how they convey the values and lifestyles of the Guangdong region through visual forms. The study further explores the potential application of these traditional symbols in modern design, especially through simplification and abstraction, combining traditional cultural symbols with modern design concepts, materials and techniques to realize the fusion of cultural heritage and innovative design. This paper provides a new theoretical framework for the study of the patterns of traditional furniture in Guangdong, and practical suggestions for modern designers on how to effectively inherit and innovate the cultural heritage symbols, and to promote the synergistic development of cultural heritage preservation and design industry.

Preservation of cultural heritage, digital technology and cyberspaces: women’s active involvement, opportunity and empowerment

Purpose This paper aims to highlight the involvement and empowerment of women in cultural heritage preservation, in particular their use of digital technology applications and online platforms. Design/methodology/approach This paper reviews the relevant literature and discusses specific examples of women using digital technology and cyberspaces for cultural heritage preservation. Findings Cyberspaces and digital technology present opportunities for women to be actively involved and empowered in cultural heritage preservation. Examples of this involvement are digitization activities and projects, using digital spaces to discuss issues related to cultural heritage preservation, and transmitting information related to cultural heritage preservation via online platforms and channels. But digital skills and competency training are needed to strengthen and support women’s active involvement in the cyberspace arena, and governments and other stakeholders such as academic or public libraries could collaborate to implement this training. Originality/value Although there are several studies that discuss women’s roles in cultural heritage preservation, the literature review revealed that few studies focus on the empowerment and participation of women in the use of digital technology and cyberspace in preserving cultural heritage. By discussing specific examples, this paper adds to the literature and supports the active involvement of women in participating in cultural heritage preservation, especially in the context of digital technology applications and cyberspaces. Leveraging digital technologies to help preserve intangible cultural heritage that has been passed down from generation to generation at the family level is also recommended.

Public Art and Cultural Identity: Analysing the Keris Sculpture under Municipal Hang Tuah Jaya, Melaka

In the Malay community, the Keris served not only as a self-defence tool but also as a significant symbol reflecting the Malay community and cultural heritage. This study explores the symbolic meaning and cultural significance of the public sculpture Keris at Jalan Air Keroh, installed by the Municipal Hang Tuah Jaya, Melaka Councils. Applying Feldman's art criticism theory, which encompasses four main aspects - description, analysis, interpretation, and judgement, this research seeks to investigate the design and meaning of the sculpture. Despite its prominent visibility and visual solid impact along the roadside, its deep cultural significance and influence on the local community remain enigmatic. By providing a comprehensive analysis of the symbolic and artistic elements of the Keris sculpture, this study aims to bridge this knowledge gap by utilising a systematic descriptive qualitative approach based on Feldmans's theory. The findings of this study are expected to provide comprehensible information that can enhance both local and tourist understanding and appreciation of the sculpture. It can also strengthen interactions and appreciation of Malay culture in Melaka. Findings showed the potential of public sculpture in Melaka, which serves as an aesthetic element and a crucial component to bringing a closer understanding and appreciation in promoting the cultural and historical significance of the Malay community to the general public.

Multi-spectroscopic characterization system for cultural heritage materials analysis (SYSPECTRAL): Conception and example

A comprehensive understanding of chemical composition of cultural heritage materials usually requires several complementary analytical techniques. Given the fragility and value of artworks, minimizing or avoiding sampling and performing in situ analysis under ambient light is an important goal. This article outlines a novel prototype designed to merge LIBS, laser-induced fluorescence spectroscopy (LIF), Raman spectroscopy using a single pulsed laser, and reflectance spectroscopy in a multi-spectroscopic characterization system for cultural heritage analysis (SYSPECTRAL). The aim is to analyze cultural heritage materials in their original place, obtaining both elemental and molecular information at such same point that is not always insured with several separated experimental settings. The SYSPECTRAL system focuses on compactness, mobility, and ease of operation. Software designed for the prototype controls multi-spectroscopic measurements, allows for image capture, precise localization, and data acquisition. Reflectance spectra examined the material and colors at the surface, and the LIBS-LIF-Raman package examines the stratigraphic structure of a multi-layered painted sample.

Features of the formation of tourism product in Mongolia

Mongolia is a unique tourist destination that attracts travelers with its culture, natural landscapes and historical heritage. The article examines the features of the formation of the tourism product in Mongolia, including key aspects that contribute to the successful development of tourism in this country.

The Cultural Significance of Malay Woodcarving Motifs: A Case Study of Rumah Warisan Hajah Kundur

This study examined the Malay woodcarving motifs displayed at Rumah Warisan Hajah Kundur, a distinguished Malay heritage house currently located in Politeknik Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia. The study utilised qualitative research methods such as site observations, photographic recording, and analysis of secondary data to document and assess the wood carving motifs found on the wooden structure. The house had been moved and restored in order to preserve its cultural significance. The investigation uncovered that the woodcarvings of Rumah Warisan Hajah Kundur prominently featured floral motifs, with geometric and combination designs also being prominent. This study not only recorded the visual qualities of the carvings but also analysed their symbolic meaning, revealing the interdependent relationship between artistic representation and cultural heritage in the practice of Malay woodcarving. Concentrating on this singular, historically significant residence of Rumah Warisan Hajah Kundur, the study underscored the significance of Malay woodcarving in vernacular architecture in Negeri Sembilan. It emphasised the imperative for continuous documentation and conservation of the intangible cultural heritage represented by Malay woodcarving motifs and Malay traditional houses.