In the paper a definition of revitalization and the term’ origins in practical use are presented. The examples of cities, districts, post-industrial areas are given, which, thanks to revitalization processes, have been changed from vacant places and wastelands into objects with new, attractive functions. Among the objects described in the article are: Berlin’s districts Kreuzberg, Nature Park Schöneberg Südgelände, Promenade plantée of Paris and American: High Line Park, Brooklyn Bridge Park and Freshkills Park. Moreover the paper addresses the issue of Detroit, the city which is being subjected to comprehensive revitalization. The presented examples have confirmed that urban centres are degraded by manifold factors, mainly social and economic, and that their revitalization requires the use of specific, individualized solutions compatible with the need of a given object.