Home to the Legislative branch of the Government, The
Capitol building overlooks the National Mall. Visitors are welcome to participate in the
free guided tours, or wander the halls of the magnificent building on their own.
The Capitol building is one of Washington’s unmistakable landmarks.
The cornerstone of the building was laid by George Washington himself in 1793, and with
the exception of certain extenuating circumstances (when the British burned the Capitol),
it has housed the Senate and the House of Representatives since 1800.
The Capitol building is divided into three sections: The North Wing, which
houses the Senate, the South Wing for the House of Representatives and the Rotunda.
The absolutely beautiful Rotunda is the area under the Capitol dome. On
its ceiling is Constitino Brumidi’s fresco, "Apotheosis of Washington". The
bronze 19-foot tall statue, "Freedom", tops the dome itself. No building in the
District of Colombia is permitted to be taller than the statue, so nothing may stand above
"Freedom".
The free 45-minute tour of the Capitol begins in the Rotunda, and makes
its way around the halls of the building. Along the way, tour guides point out the
historical significance of the paintings and statues that adorn the halls. The tour is
very informative and will instill an appreciation for the historical and architectural
importance of the Capitol.
