Skyscrapers are seen either as symbols of progress or as eyesores, yet most of the world has pursued building upwards—with one exception: Europe. Europe has few among the world’s tallest buildings, only seven of the top 1,000 tallest are located in the EU. The primary reason isn't a lack of ambition but rather strict and complex regulations protecting cultural heritage. For example, in Rome, buildings cannot surpass the height of St. Peter’s Basilica. Similarly, Athens limits buildings to 12 stories to preserve views of the Parthenon. Occasionally, taller buildings have bypassed these rules, but they are often criticized. One example is the Tour Montparnasse in Paris, which sparked such backlash that a new law was passed restricting central buildings to 37 meters. London, with more skyscrapers, still faces limitations due to laws protecting views of St. Paul’s Cathedral. These protected sightlines make new tall constructions challenging. While some argue that Europe is being left behind by younger, more dynamic cities, others see its restraint as a deliberate choice. This reflects a broader debate between preserving history and embracing modernity. In the end, Europe’s skyline may not be stunted by accident but shaped by conscious cultural values.
Vocabulary:
• blot (noun): something that spoils or damages something pure or beautiful – here, skyscrapers are seen as a blot on the natural horizon.
• stunted (adj): prevented from growing or developing properly – refers to Europe’s limited vertical expansion.
• heritage (noun): cultural traditions or monuments from the past that are preserved – used in reference to regulations protecting historic buildings.
• bureaucrats (noun): government officials, often associated with red tape or complex rules – here, they enforce building limits.
• slipped through (phrasal verb): managed to avoid or bypass a rule or restriction – used for buildings that were built despite regulations.
• blight (noun): something that spoils or ruins – refers to the Tour Montparnasse as an unwanted addition to the skyline.
• hurdle (noun): an obstacle or difficulty – here, the legal requirement to protect views of St. Paul’s Cathedral.
• resisted (verb): to refuse to accept or comply with – describes Europe’s reluctance to build tall buildings.
• perspective (noun): a particular way of thinking or viewing something – used at the end to suggest differing views on the issue.
Source: BBC