Over centuries, famous buildings have served as churches, government offices, residences, and more. When at risk of ruin by some disaster or when in need of restoration, humankind has often stepped in to preserve the rich history of these monuments. Using state support, community initiatives, and even crowdfunding efforts, cities around the world can now restore historically significant structures faster than ever before. From recreating their much-loved original designs to completely reimagining them, the possibilities truly are endless. We’ve compiled a list of 25 historical buildings that were saved from the brink of ruin through careful work and skilled labor.
#1 Notre-Dame De Paris, France
Built in France in 1163, Notre-Dame de Paris is one of the most famous cathedrals in the world. On the verge of collapse by the 19th century, the popularity of The Hunchback of Notre-Dame, published in 1831, led to a national movement for its preservation. On April 15, 2019, a fire broke out under the cathedral’s roof, making global headlines. Over $10.6 million was donated towards its restoration, which is said to have cost $900 million and required over 2,000 artisans and contractors. Notre-Dame reopened on December 7, 2024, but refurbishments are set to continue until the end of 2026.
