Newspapers have, for instance, retained their importance as vehicles for advertising.

Although the powers of the Mayor have diminished over time, the role has retained its importance.

The 9.2-inch gun retained its importance in British coastal defence for more than half a century.

Valkenburg is no longer a fortified city but retained its importance nevertheless.

However, it has retained its importance as the country's largest city and as an economic centre.

The town retained its political importance, fleetingly, when Delaware became a state.

Thus, commercial activity retained its importance for the Cyclades.

One of the original towns built by caravanning merchants, it has always retained its importance.

Since then few or minor changes have been made in the square, which retains its importance until today.

Especially important were synthetic rubber and high octane fuel, which retained their importance after the war.