Belgrade's Hotel Yugoslavia, a former beacon of Yugoslavian socialist progress, now faces potential demolition. This iconic establishment once welcomed renowned figures like Queen Elizabeth II and US Presidents Richard Nixon and Jimmy Carter. However, abandoned and deteriorating, the hotel's fate stirs a heated debate between preserving history and the march of development.
Constructed in the 1960s as a modernist marvel, its state has declined due to disrepair and damage from NATO bombings in 1999. Recent plans by private investors propose demolishing the once-luxurious structure to make room for new 150-meter towers housing a luxury hotel, offices, and apartments. Investors cite irreparable bomb damage and evolving hospitality trends as key reasons for its replacement.
Locals and historians strongly oppose the plan, viewing the hotel as a vital historical relic. Weekly protests have ensued, with some Belgrade citizens pledging to physically prevent demolition if necessary. Resident Svetlana Gojun underscores its significance, stating, "Hotel Yugoslavia represents a huge part of our history." (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)
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