U.S. Capitol

The United States Capitol is the home of the legislative branch of the U.S. federal government and is located on Capitol Hill in Washington D.C. It houses the Senate and the House of Representatives, which together form the U.S. Congress.

The Capitol is a historic building that has undergone several renovations and expansions over the years. The current building was completed in 1800, and it features a neoclassical design inspired by ancient Greek and Roman architecture. The dome of the Capitol is one of its most recognizable features, and it was originally made of wood before being replaced with cast iron.

The interior of the Capitol is adorned with impressive artwork, including murals, frescoes, and sculptures that depict important events in American history. The building also contains several important rooms, such as the Rotunda, which houses a large fresco depicting the Apotheosis of Washington, and the National Statuary Hall, which contains statues of prominent Americans.

The Capitol is the site of many important events in American politics, including presidential inaugurations, State of the Union addresses, and hearings and debates on important legislative issues. It is also a popular destination for tourists who come to learn about American history and government, and to view the impressive architecture and artwork of the building.

Things to do in the U.S. Capitol

Take a Guided Tour: The U.S. Capitol offers free guided tours of the historic building, including the Rotunda and National Statuary Hall. The tour is a great way to learn about the history and significance of the building and the legislative process.

Visit the Galleries: The U.S. Capitol has several galleries, including the National Statuary Hall Collection and the Capitol Visitor Center Exhibition Hall. These galleries feature artwork, historical artifacts, and exhibits related to the history of the Capitol and the United States.

Watch Congress in Session: Visitors can observe both the Senate and House of Representatives in session from the galleries. Check the schedule in advance to see when Congress is in session.

Explore the Grounds: The U.S. Capitol has a beautiful park-like setting, with plenty of green space and monuments to explore. The Capitol Grounds are open to the public and are a great place to take a walk or have a picnic.

Attend a Special Event: The U.S. Capitol hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, ceremonies, and other special events.

Visit the Library of Congress: The Library of Congress is located just across the street from the U.S. Capitol and is one of the largest libraries in the world. It offers free tours and has a variety of exhibits and collections to explore.

See the Capitol Christmas Tree: Each year, the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree is displayed on the West Lawn of the Capitol. This is a popular attraction during the holiday season.