Homage to Oman: reflections on an Arabian kingdom's illustrious past

Article Abstract:

Photographs by Nicolas Sapieha evoke the rich history of Oman even as the country pursues modernization. A region of Oman was once an active center in the frankincense trade, until after the fall of the Roman empire. Oman's history is illustrated by ruins of Bahla fort, named a UNESCO World Heritage site; Nizwa Fort from the 17th century, restored in 1990; and the building of the traditional wooden ships called dhows.

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Saving Knossos: the struggle to preserve a landmark of Europe's first great civilization

Article Abstract:

Ruins at Knossos, a Minoan site on Crete, are threatened by tourism, erosion and development. The original excavator, Arthur Evans, reconstructed parts of the palace between 1901 and 1930, adding reinforced concrete. The reconstruction, although criticized for being too extensive, is also at risk. The site attracts many tourists, bringing prosperity to Crete, and no limits on tourist access to the site are planned.

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An endangered sanctuary

Article Abstract:

The Getty Conservation Institute has suggested strategies for preserving ancient Buddhist cave-temples at Yungang, China. Coal dust from nearby mines and poor drainage have created centuries-old problems in preserving the site. The Getty Institute offered ways to limit soot, improve runoff, and manage visitors. Conservation procedures must be well-established before Chinese open the location to tourism.

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