F rom the prefabricated wooden huts of Antarctic explorers in the early 20th century to the enduring limestone ruins of the Mayan city Ek’ Balam (Black Jaguar) built more than 1,200 years ago (Fig. 1), conservators, archaeologists, and other specialists are striving to understand and combat the physical, chemical, and biological processes responsible for the deterioration of these historic stru...

In this study, we investigated and compared the microbial communities adhering to the obverse and the reverse sides of an oil painting on canvas exhibiting signs of biodeterioration. Samples showing no visible damage were investigated as controls. Air samples were also analysed, in order to investigate the presence of airborne microorganisms suspended in the indoor atmosphere. The diversity of ...

A number of mural paintings and building materials from monuments located in central and south Europe are characterized by the presence of an intriguing rosy discolouration phenomenon. Although some similarities were observed among the bacterial and archaeal microbiota detected in these monuments, their origin and nature is still unknown. In order to get a complete overview of this biodeteriora...

Microbiologically induced deterioration (MID) causes corrosion of concrete by producing acids (including organic and inorganic acids) that degrade concrete components and thus compromise the integrity of sewer pipelines and other structures, creating significant problems worldwide. Understanding of the fundamental corrosion process and the causal agents will help us develop an appropriate strat...

Sophisticated mummification using chemical preservation was prevalent in ancient Yemeni civilization as noted in the 4th century B.C. mummies of the National Museum of Yemen, Sana'a, used in this study. Five of these mummies were used to evaluate hydrolytic enzymes produced as a result of fungal contamination. Forty-seven fungal species were isolated, thereby reflecting a high degree of contami...

Fungal organisms are considered one of the most relevant stone colonizers, and biodeteriogens. They ubiquitous heterotrophs, metabolically versatile, ranging from generalist to extremophiles. Limestone, a sedimentary rock characterized by high levels calcium carbonate, has low compressive strength hardness porosity. These features make it highly susceptible fungal colonization an exceptional ta...

This editorial focuses on the studies published within present Special Issue presenting advances in field of biodeterioration cultural heritage caused by microbial communities with a particular focus new methods for their elimination and control.