Capitol

Capitol

A capitol is a building or complex of buildings where a legislative body meets. The term is most commonly associated with the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C., but it can refer to any building where a legislature convenes.

United States Capitol

The United States Capitol is the home of the United States Congress and the seat of the legislative branch of the U.S. federal government. It is located on Capitol Hill at the eastern end of the National Mall in Washington, D.C.. The building was completed in 1800 and has been the site of many significant events in American history.

State Capitols

In the United States, each state has its own capitol building where the state legislature meets. These buildings are often grand and architecturally significant. Examples include the California State Capitol in Sacramento, California, the Texas State Capitol in Austin, Texas, and the New York State Capitol in Albany, New York.

Other Countries

In other countries, the term "capitol" may not be used, but the concept is similar. For example, the Palace of Westminster in London is the meeting place of the Parliament of the United Kingdom. Similarly, the Bundestag meets in the Reichstag building in Berlin, Germany.

Architectural Features

Capitol buildings often feature distinctive architectural elements such as domes, columns, and grand staircases. The United States Capitol is known for its large dome, which was designed by Thomas U. Walter and completed in 1866. Many state capitols also feature domes, such as the Colorado State Capitol in Denver, Colorado.

Related Pages

• United States Capitol
• Capitol Hill
• National Mall
• United States Congress
• State legislature
• Palace of Westminster
• Reichstag building