Angelenos have been demolishing landmarks as long as we’ve been building them. Nearly every square inch of the city used to be something else, and many places that rose on the ashes of landmarks have gained their own significance over time.

Most of what we typically consider landmarks are beautiful works of architecture, but they’re also much more. Landmarks distinguish and anchor communities. They’re tangible history, offering an experience that words or images never could. They connect us with our past and each other. They educate and inspire. They reflect our values as a society. Some landmarks are icons; others are neighborhood gems. Some aren’t even pretty, but they play key roles in conveying our culture.