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Learn about the history and architecture of the Virginia State Capitol, the seat of state government and the oldest elected legislative body in North America. The Capitol was designed by Thomas Jefferson and modeled after a Roman temple, and served as the Confederate States Capitol during the Civil War.
Learn about the history, location, accessibility, and events of the Virginia State Capitol in Richmond. Find directions, parking, catering, and multimedia information for visiting the Capitol and the General Assembly Building.
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statue alludes to the similarities between Washington and the ancient Roman General Cincinnatus who, when Rome no longer needed him, gave up his military power and returned to the simple life of a farmer. The artist carefully balanced the military and civilian elements of Washington’s career: his sword is by his side and he rests his left hand on ...
once wrote that “architecture is my delight.” After the Revolution, Virginians instinctively turned to Jefferson and asked him to design a new state Capitol, combining “economy with elegance and utility.” Jefferson was responsible Painting by George Catlin for recommending the Shockoe hilltop location, choosing the Classical temple form, and arr...
House of Delegates (left), is composed of 100 Delegates who are elected every two years. The Speaker of the House is the presiding oficer of the House of Delegates. The Speaker and the Clerk of the House are elected by the membership, each for a two-year term. Desks for the Delegates fill the room, surrounding the Speaker’s and Clerk’s podiums. On...
A large equestrian statue of George Washington atop a granite pedestal is located just northwest of the Capitol at the formal entrance to the square. This monument was conceived to honor Washington and to glorify Virginia’s contributions to our nation’s independence. Virginia’s role in the Revolution is represented by bronze statues of six native s...
the grounds north of the Capitol are bronze statues of former Virginia Governor and U.S. Senator Harry F. Byrd, Sr.; William “Extra Billy” Smith, Governor of Virginia and Confederate Brigadier General; Confederate Major General Thomas J. “Stonewall” Jackson; and Dr. Hunter Holmes McGuire, a respected Southern surgeon. In the southwest corner of t...
Learn about the history and features of the Virginia State Capitol, designed by Thomas Jefferson and the birthplace of eight presidents. See the Rotunda, the House of Delegates, the Senate Chamber, and the Houdon statue of George Washington.
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The Capitol is fully accessible to visitors with special needs. Information desk: (804) 698-1788. Email: capitoltourguides@captourguides.virginia.gov. As of July 1, 2021, it is illegal to bring firearms and explosives onto the grounds of Capitol Square and the surrounding areas and into any building owned or leased by the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Designed by Thomas Jefferson, the State Capitol houses America’s oldest legislative assembly. Daily one-hour guided tours showcase historical statuary and paintings, rare exhibit objects, and newly restored legislative chambers. Self-guided tours also are available.
Visit the historic buildings designed by Thomas Jefferson, where America's oldest legislative assembly and the oldest governor's home in the country are located. Learn about the Virginia Civil Rights Memorial and take guided or self-guided tours of the Capitol and the Mansion.
Welcome to Virginia's Virtual State Capitol. As part of the 2004-07 restoration team, I would like to highlight the historical treasures of the Capitol and Capitol Grounds as well as recent innovations to these areas. You can view videos of the Capitol and explore on your own.
