Around the world, there are countless stunning sites worth seeing. Some are celebrated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites or listed among the New Seven Wonders of the World, while others, though not officially recognized, are equally breathtaking. As we admire these incredible landmarks, it’s easy to overlook the crucial role that cleaning and maintenance play in preserving their beauty and significance.
By researching these processes, we can gain insight into the treatments required to maintain these monuments and how experts carry out their work. Below, we explore some fascinating details about five of the most popular, important, and visited monuments globally.
Statue of Liberty, New York
One of the most visited monuments in the world, the Statue of Liberty has long stood as a symbol of freedom for New York City. In 2023, it welcomed around 4 million visitors, contributing significantly to the local economy and supporting numerous jobs.
The concept for the statue was conceived in 1865 by Édouard de Laboulaye, a notable French political thinker, who wished to honor the values of the USA. By 1875, the project was underway, with the statue being built in France and shipped to the United States, where it was officially unveiled in 1886. In 1984, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its cultural and historical significance.
To maintain its iconic status, the Statue of Liberty undergoes regular maintenance and cleaning. One of the largest restoration projects occurred in 1986 to mark its 100th anniversary. More recently, a major maintenance effort began last year to address damage caused by Hurricane Sandy. Bicarbonate of soda was used for cleaning the copper surface to ensure thorough cleaning without damaging it.
For a look at the cleaning process, check out the video above. Both tourists and locals eagerly anticipate the 4th of July, Independence Day, when the monument will be open to the public once again.
Eiffel Tower, Paris
Constructed in 1889 by engineer Gustave Eiffel, the Eiffel Tower initially faced significant controversy and criticism. It was originally intended to stand for just 20 years. However, it quickly became a major tourist attraction and a key platform for transmission antennas, essential for the emerging field of radio telegraphy.
Today, the Eiffel Tower is one of the most-visited paid monuments globally, attracting nearly 7 million visitors annually. Since the 1980s, it has undergone regular renovations and maintenance. The tower is cleaned every year and repainted by hand every seven years. For a glimpse of its historical upkeep, check out this video of a spring cleaning from 1946.
Big Ben, London
The Elizabeth Tower, commonly known as Big Ben, marked its 150th anniversary in 2009 with one of its most extensive maintenance programs. Created by the renowned firm MMM, the tower underwent significant upkeep, including the suspension of the bell’s hourly and quarter-hourly chimes for four to six weeks— a first since 1956. Specialist glaziers also carried out repairs to the clock’s glasswork.
Regular maintenance and repairs are scheduled every five years. For instance, in August 2001, Big Ben received a thorough week-long cleaning after a six-year interval. Teams of cleaners worked from a height of nearly 315 feet to scrub the four faces of the clock. You can view a video of the spring cleaning from 1980 for a historical perspective.
Colosseum, Rome
Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980 and named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007, the Colosseum has stood as a symbol of ancient Rome since its construction began under Emperor Vespasian and was completed by his son Titus in 80 AD. The grand opening ceremony lasted a remarkable 100 days, as documented in ancient chronicles.
Due to its age, the Colosseum requires extensive and costly maintenance. For instance, a major restoration program costing 25 million euros began in December 2012 and was scheduled to continue until 2015. In addition, a focused cleaning effort started last January, targeting a specific section of the arena and costing 80,000 euros. This cleaning revealed ancient traces of red, green, black, and blue frescoes and graffiti, showing that the interiors, galleries, and corridors of the Colosseum were once more colorful than the grey-brown tones we see today.
The last major organic intervention was in 1939, with significant cleaning and restoration work also conducted in 1970.
Taj Mahal, India
Located in Agra, North India, the Taj Mahal was commissioned by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1632 in memory of his third wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Today, it serves as the mausoleum for both of them. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 and included in the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007, the Taj Mahal is celebrated for its stunning white marble architecture.
However, pollution, fumes, and environmental factors have caused the once-pristine marble to develop a yellowish tint. To address this issue, various cleaning methods have been employed. One successful technique involves using a fine clay known as Multani Mitti, which is mixed with water, applied to the marble, and then washed off. This method was utilized effectively in 2001 and 2007. Additionally, in 1988, a similar method involved mixing clay with solvents to tackle the discoloration.
These ongoing preservation efforts help maintain the Taj Mahal’s iconic beauty for future generations.
