Historic Preservation
The Office of Historic Preservation promotes and protects the City of Boston's cultural heritage. Part of the Environment, Energy and Open Space Cabinet, the department houses the Boston Landmarks Commission, the City Archaeology Program, and the Commemoration Commission.
Together, our teams raise awareness about environmental, social, and economic benefits of Boston's historic resources and the stories that can be told through cultural resources. We also promote the benefits of adaptive reuse of historic buildings and materials. Our department fosters economic development and cultural diversity by protecting and advocating for Boston's unique sense of place.
Contact
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26 Court Street
Floor 2Boston, MA 02108 -
Office HoursMonday through Friday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Spotlight
What’s Your Swan Boat Story?
In 2027, Boston will celebrate the 150th anniversary of both the Swan Boats and the Paget family’s remarkable stewardship.
Celebrating the Copley Plaza Hotel, Boston's New Landmark
On Thursday August 13, 2026, the Fairmont Copley Plaza staff raised a glass to celebrate both 114 years of history and its new landmark designation from the City of Boston.
Be the Change: Public Art Comes to Historic Beacon Hill
At its July 20, 2026, Public Hearing, the Beacon Hill Architectural Commission approved a temporary public art exhibition that will bring seven large-scale sculptures by local artists to historic sites throughout the Historic Beacon Hill District.
The New England Conservatory is a Landmark!
Approved by the Boston Landmarks Commission (BLC) on July 14, 2026, this handsome Renaissance Revival building is home to the oldest independent school of music in the United States.
Layers of Dorchester: Unearthing 190 Bowdoin Street
In May, the City of Boston Archaeology team excavated at 190 Bowdoin Street in Dorchester in collaboration with property owner VietAID (Vietnamese American Initiative for Development).
A New Chapter for the Blackstone Block
This fall, one of Greater Boston's most beloved independent booksellers will open its doors in one of the city's oldest and most distinctive neighborhoods.
Department Divisions
Departments
Boston Landmarks Commission
The Landmarks Commission (BLC) and the 10 local historic district commissions are comprised of volunteers nominated by professional organizations and neighborhood groups. The Commissions are tasked with reviewing exterior changes made to properties within their specific jurisdictions. The BLC also regulates the city's Article 85 Demolition Delay ordinance.
Archaeology Program
The City Archaeology Program was founded in 1983. The program's goal is to protect Boston's irreplaceable archaeological resources. Boston has hundreds of known archaeological sites within the City's borders. Archaeology staff curate the archaeological collections at the City’s Archaeology Laboratory.
Commemoration Commission
The Boston Commemoration Commission will mark upcoming historical anniversaries, including the United States' 250th in 2026, the 400th anniversary of the founding of the City of Boston in 2030, and other significant historical anniversaries.
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Environment, Energy, and Open Space Cabinet
Brian Swett is the Chief of Environment, Energy, and Open Space for the City of Boston. In this role, Chief Swett is responsible for leading the Cabinet in achieving its mission of enhancing environmental justice and quality of life in Boston by protecting air, water, climate, and land resources, as well as preserving and improving the integrity of Boston's architectural and historic resources.
Departments, Boards & Agencies
Contact
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26 Court Street
Floor 2Boston, MA 02108 -
Office HoursMonday through Friday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
