Some of the world’s greatest architectural marvels seemed destined for the history books; their glory was lost to time until restoration efforts brought them back to life. These encompass royal residences and cultural landmarks, and here are ten that have been given a new lease of life.
Reims Cathedral (France)
Rising like a phoenix, Reims Cathedral overcame fire and war to reclaim its grandeur. Initially built in the 13th century, this Gothic masterpiece suffered extensive damage during WWI. Its iconic stained glass windows, which once shattered under bombardments, now radiate vibrant colors, thanks to meticulous restorations.
Hiroshima Castle (Japan)
Destroyed during WWII, Hiroshima Castle rose again in 1958. Known as “Carp Castle,” its wooden exteriors and black-tiled roofs were painstakingly recreated to reflect 16th-century Japanese architecture. The castle now serves as a museum, immersing visitors in samurai culture and Hiroshima’s ancient heritage.
Frauenkirche (Germany)
The Frauenkirche, or Church of Our Lady, stood as a pile of rubble for nearly 50 years after WWII. Dresden’s residents, determined to see it restored, spearheaded efforts in 1994. Using 3D imaging and salvaged stones, the iconic domed church was rebuilt and completed in 2005.
Cathedral Of Christ the Savior (Russia)
Once demolished by Soviet authorities in 1931, the Cathedral of Christ the Savior in Moscow made a dramatic comeback in 2000. Rebuilt brick by brick, it reclaimed its position as the tallest Orthodox Christian church in the world. Its gilded domes glisten against the Moscow skyline.
Altstadt (Germany)
Frankfurt’s Altstadt, or Old Town, vanished during WWII blastings. But in the 2010s, the city embarked on an ambitious project to reconstruct its medieval charm. Narrow cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, and the Römer square were meticulously recreated to transport visitors back to the 14th century.
Ribeira Palace (Portugal)
Devastated by the Lisbon earthquake of 1755, the Ribeira Palace was lost to time. Thankfully, portions of its grandeur have been reconstructed, and its memory lives on through Praça do Comércio, a grand square built on its former grounds. The palace’s glory echoes in the surrounding architecture.
Linlithgow Palace (Scotland)
This 15th-century Scottish palace reflects the country’s regal history and is famously known as the birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots. Devastated by a fire in 1746, it fell into disrepair, leaving behind ruins that still exude a sense of medieval grandeur. Now partially restored, the palace draws visitors eager to uncover its storied past.
Schönbrunn Palace (Austria)
During WWII, blasts left Schönbrunn Palace, Austria’s architectural gem, in dire need of repair. Built at the end of the 17th century as a Habsburg summer residence, the palace underwent extensive restoration to reclaim its Baroque splendor. Today, its golden-yellow façade and immaculate gardens make it one of Vienna’s most-visited landmarks.
Royal Palace of Madrid (Spain)
The Royal Palace of Madrid, completed in 1755, has witnessed centuries of Spanish history. The palace was damaged during various conflicts, and since then, it has undergone meticulous restorations to preserve its neoclassical and Baroque charm. As Spain’s largest palace, it contains over 3,000 rooms, though only a fraction is open to the public.
Prague Castle (Czech Republic)
Prague Castle, the heart of Czech history, has endured centuries of war, fire, and political upheaval. Initially founded in the 9th century, it underwent significant restorations after being damaged during conflicts, including the Thirty Years’ War. Within its walls, you’ll find St. Vitus Cathedral, stunning royal gardens, and Golden Lane, where alchemists once worked.
