For decades, Downtown Crossing was the hot spot for shopping in Boston. When the area lost two of its most notable national chains, many wondered if Downtown Crossing's days as a shopping destination were numbered.

Today, a New York developer unveiled plans for a $200 million housing-retail development in Downtown Crossing, a key milestone in the city's effort to revitalize the central shopping district.

Let's take a look back at the place where people have historically come together from all over the city to work and shop.