| Home to the Legislative branch of the government, the Capitol building overlooks the National Mall in downtown Washington, D.C. Visitors are welcome to participate in the free guided tours. The Capitol building is one of the city's unmistakable landmarks. The cornerstone of the building was laid by George Washington himself in 1793. 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 magnificent Rotunda is the area under the Capitol dome. On its ceiling is Constantino 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 that nothing may stand above "Freedom."The 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 country's most recognizable office building. |
