This giant tree between the National Center for the Preservation of Democracy (a former Buddhist temple and a monument itself) and the MOCA is nearly 100 years old. It serves as a symbol of the Koyosan Buddhist Temple, once one of the oldest and largest temples in LA. Somehow, in spite of "benign neglect, the lack of an irrigation system, and the graffiti and asphalt covering portions of its extensive root system," the tree has survived since about 1920.

On the northeast side of Pershing Square, in that weird sandy litterbox area, there's a monument dating back to 1900 that serves as a reminder of the Spanish-American War and is inscribed with the names of 21 people who died fighting in it. According to Public Art in LA, this is the oldest sculpture in Los Angeles. [Image via Downtowngal / Creative Commons]

Nope, it's not the same as the building that now houses a club called Exchange LA. This stunning structure is both an excellent example of work by farmed architectural firm Morgan, Walls, & Morgan, and a solid example of the Beaux-Arts style. But it's also associated strongly with the "development of Spring Street as the 'Wall Street of the West' in the early 20th century."

Once the home and headquarters of the "elite haberdashery" empire of Alexander & Oviatt, this building is valuable for its association with the period when Downtown was becoming a destination for high-end retail. The business closed in 1967, but the beautiful Art Deco building remains intact, and is in use as a nightclub, while its rooftop is available for special events (picturesque weddings).

Spanish Colonial Revival industrial architecture isn't something you see a whole lot of anymore, especially not with "rich Churrigueresque detailing on its facade." But that's what we've got here, designed by noted architecture firm Morgan, Walls & Clements.

The Plaza Church next to Olvera Street is recognized as Los Angeles's oldest established church that's still in use. HistoricPlacesLA says it dates back to 1822.