Across the world, historic buildings face a common challenge: how do you preserve the past without halting the present? Three iconic structures illustrate both the ambition of their original builders and the effort required to keep them standing today.
The Colosseum in Rome was built between 70 and 80 AD by approximately 100,000 workers. It was designed to hold up to 80,000 spectators, who gathered to watch gladiatorial contests and public spectacles. Over the centuries, much of the marble that once covered its walls was removed and reused in other buildings. Today, the structure is visited by over six million tourists each year. Parts of the interior are currently being restored by conservation teams, and further sections will need to be repaired in the coming decade.
Constructed between 1609 and 1616, the Blue Mosque in Istanbul was commissioned by Sultan Ahmed I. It was designed by the architect Sedefkâr Mehmed Ağa, who incorporated six minarets — an unusual feature that was criticised at the time. The interior is decorated with over 20,000 hand-painted ceramic tiles, and the overall effect remains breathtaking. It is still used as a working mosque today — visitors are asked to remove their shoes before entering. Recently, the exterior was cleaned for the first time in 50 years.
The Palace of Versailles was originally constructed as a hunting lodge in 1623. It was later expanded by Louis XIV into one of the largest palaces in the world. The famous Hall of Mirrors is lined with 357 mirrors, which were installed in 1684. Today the palace is managed by a public institution, and millions of visitors are welcomed each year. Significant restoration work is being carried out in the East Wing — it is expected to be completed by 2028.
These three buildings remind us that great architecture is never truly finished. It needs to be cared for, adapted, and protected — by every generation that inherits it.