Roanoke Downtown Historic District (Roanoke, Virginia)

The Roanoke Downtown Historic District encompasses the core of the city's central business district, representing a significant collection of commercial, governmental, and civic buildings that reflect Roanoke's growth and development from the late 19th century through the mid-20th century. Located in Roanoke, Virginia, the district showcases a variety of architectural styles, including Romanesque Revival, Beaux-Arts, Art Deco, and International styles, reflecting the changing tastes and technological advancements of the period.

The district's boundaries generally follow the street grid around Market Square and extend to include important landmarks such as the Hotel Roanoke (though the Hotel Roanoke complex is individually listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is often considered separately, it contributes to the overall character of the district), the former First National Exchange Bank Building, and the Patrick Henry Hotel. These structures, along with numerous other commercial buildings, contributed to Roanoke's role as a major transportation and economic hub in southwestern Virginia.

The Roanoke Downtown Historic District is significant for its architectural merit and for its association with the commercial, industrial, and civic history of Roanoke. The district's period of significance generally extends from the late 19th century, coinciding with the city's incorporation as Big Lick and its subsequent transformation into Roanoke due to the railroad industry, to the mid-20th century, marking a period of continued growth and urbanization. The district was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in [Insert Date if Known, otherwise leave blank]. Preservation efforts are ongoing to maintain the historical integrity of the district and to promote its revitalization as a vibrant urban center.