American Classical / The United States Capitol /
Washington DC - District of Columbia, United States
The United States Capitol is one of the most significant works of American Neoclassical architecture. Located on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., it houses the legislative branch of the United States government: the Senate and the House of Representatives.
The building combines architectural principles derived from ancient Greek and Roman public architecture with the political ideals of the American republic. Its monumental dome, classical porticoes, symmetrical wings, grand stairways and ceremonial interior spaces communicate stability, civic authority and democratic government.
The Capitol is not the work of a single architect. It developed over more than two centuries through successive designs, reconstructions, extensions and restorations. Its current appearance is the result of several major architectural contributions.
Stylistic Period: American Neoclassical
Year: 1866
Location: Washington DC - District of Columbia, United States
Architect: William Thornton Original 1793 design and fundamental organization Benjamin Henry Latrobe Reconstruction, interior planning and distinctive American classicCharles Bulfinch, Thomas U. Walter, Edward Clark, Frederick Law Olmsted
Patron: United States government
Area: 175,170 SQ. FT
