United States Capitol

The United States Capitol, often referred to as the Capitol Building, is home to the U.S. Congress and seat of the U.S. federal government’s executive branch. It is situated on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., at the east end of the National Mall.

Quick facts

• Name: United States Capitol
• Location: Washington, DC, USA
• Built 1800
• Type of attraction: Architectural/Building
• Ticket price: Free

This massive building complex is built in a distinctive neoclassical style and has a white exterior and large dome.

This structure was built over 200 years ago. The first half of the structure was entirely destroyed during the 1814 burning of Washington, and was then rebuilt in five years. A few years after its completion, the building was further expanded by the addition of a massive dome, as well as the extension of the south wing to include a bicameral legislature (the House of Representatives in the south wing and the Senate in the north wing).

The Capitol building resembles the two principal buildings of the executive and judicial branches, as it is constructed in the neoclassical style and has a white exterior.

For formal purposes, the east and west elevations of the building are referred to as fronts, although only the east front was intended for the reception of visitors and dignitaries.

With the construction of a massive dome and extended wings with increased chambers for the bicameral legislature, the House of Representatives in the south wing and the Senate in the north wing, the structure was later enlarged.

It is one of the most recognizable symbol of Washington, DC and the United States in general.

Interesting facts about United States Capitol

Here are some interesting facts about this impressive landmark:

• The Capitol has its own subway since 1909.
• George Washington himself laid the cornerstone for the Capitol in 1793.
• The statue on top of the dome is called the Statue of Freedom.

Read more: Interesting facts about United States Capitol