Neoclassisism ruled from 1834 up to 1920's as the predominant architectural style of the small city - which was situated in what is today the historical centre of Athens. The style of Neoclassisism, which was in vogue in Western Europe, was a product of the romantic fascination with antiquity. It was introduced by German architects who came to Greece in the early 1830's to plan Athens. In the interwar era and especially after 1955, a number of Athens' neoclassical buildings were torn down. However, in many areas of the historical centre the charming, neoclassical style has been preserved.