In a world constantly evolving, the spaces we inhabit—especially grand, historical interiors—aren’t immune to the passage of time. From palaces to cathedrals, many once-majestic interiors have either succumbed to modern renovation trends, poor preservation choices, or cultural transitions. Today, we explore seven of the most iconic interiors that have suffered significant alterations over the decades—some for better functionality, others to the dismay of purists and preservationists.
1. The Winter Palace – St. Petersburg, Russia
Once the opulent seat of the Russian monarchs, the Winter Palace has undergone several internal transformations since the 18th century. Fires, revolutions, and Soviet-era adaptations stripped away much of its imperial grandeur. Although many rooms have been meticulously restored, several chambers remain mere echoes of their former elegance, repurposed for modern administrative needs.
2. Notre-Dame de Paris – France
The devastating fire in April 2019 not only damaged the roof and spire but also threatened the cathedral’s priceless interiors. While restoration efforts are ongoing with historical accuracy in mind, much of the original medieval woodwork, stained glass, and decorative finishes have been permanently altered or lost.
3. The Palace of Westminster – London, UK
Although still awe-inspiring, the interiors of the UK Parliament have seen massive changes, particularly after the fire of 1834. Gothic Revival renovations altered the original medieval structures significantly. Add to that decades of modernization, and what stands today is a hybrid of old-world charm and necessary functional updates.
4. The White House – Washington D.C., USA
Beneath its historical façade, the interiors of the White House have been rebuilt almost entirely. In fact, during Harry S. Truman’s presidency, the entire interior was gutted due to structural issues, leaving only the outer walls intact. Today’s interiors are a combination of period-inspired design and modern architectural reinforcements.
5. Hagia Sophia – Istanbul, Turkey
Originally built as a Christian cathedral, later converted into a mosque, then a museum, and now once again a mosque—Hagia Sophia’s interior has seen perhaps the most dramatic ideological and architectural shifts of any building. Frescoes and mosaics were covered, revealed, and covered again, depending on the ruling regime’s cultural stance.
6. Versailles – France
Though preserved with care, several parts of the Palace of Versailles have been refurbished and altered over time, especially during the Napoleonic era and the French Revolution. Furniture was sold, murals removed or replaced, and entire rooms repurposed. Restoration efforts continue to bring Versailles closer to its 17th-century glory, but not all changes are reversible.
7. Berlin Palace (Berliner Schloss) – Germany
Originally a Baroque palace, then bombed in WWII, demolished by East Germany, and recently rebuilt as the Humboldt Forum—the Berlin Palace’s story is one of loss and reinvention. The current structure features a historically accurate exterior, but much of the interior is contemporary, prioritizing functionality over restoration.