It had become a shabby relic. Now one of Europe’s grandest hotels is being restored to its former gl…

Editor’s Note: This CNN series is, or was, sponsored by the country it highlights. CNN retains full editorial control over subject matter, reporting and frequency of the articles and videos within the sponsorship, in compliance with our policy.

Commanding a prime view of the River Danube, Hotel Gellért has long been a beacon of architectural splendor and pride in Budapest.

Since its grand debut in 1918, this Art Nouveau landmark has hosted royals, artists and dignitaries, carving out a lasting place in the story of a city that rose to become one of Europe’s most impressive capitals before enforced decline under decades of communism.

The Gellért bore witness to all this turbulent history, but the years clearly took their toll. After…