USA Guide
The Capital Region
US Capitol
The US Capitol, at the east end of the National Mall, between Constitution and Independence avenues provides an opportunity to appreciate the immense power wielded by the nation's elected officials.
George Washington laid the building's cornerstone in 1793 in a ceremony rich with Masonic symbolism, and though the Capitol was torched by the British during the War of 1812, it was later rebuilt and repeatedly expanded over the ensuing centuries. Ten presidents – most recently Gerald Ford – have lain in state in the impressive Rotunda, which, capped by a massive cast-iron dome 180-feet high and 96-feet across, links the two halves of the Capitol – the Senate in the north wing, the House of Representatives in the south. When the "Tholos" lantern above the dome is lit, Congress is in session.
Tight security means that walk-up access to the Capitol is limited to guided tours that leave every thirty minutes (9am–4.30pm; 35min; free). Since advance tickets are unavailable, arrive early at the Capitol Guide Service kiosk (near 1st St SW and Independence Ave). Tickets are distributed starting at 9am, and lines can form as early as 7am; before your scheduled tour, you can expect to wait in a lengthy queue south of the building at the South Visitor Receiving Facility. US citizens who want to see the legislative chambers must arrange to get a pass through their representatives. Visitors from other countries should bring a passport or photo ID and first go to the receiving facility, where they can obtain international passes. The East Front is being completely reconstructed to make way for the new underground visitor center. The completion of this $550-million showpiece has been long overdue and the project has run well over budget.
Telephone: 202/224-3121
Website: www.aoc.gov