United States Capitol

The Capitol’s design evolved through contributions from William Thornton, Benjamin Henry Latrobe, and Charles Bulfinch before Thomas U. Walter added the iconic dome between 1855 and 1866. Lincoln insisted work continue on the dome during the Civil War as a symbol that the Union would endure, and the Statue of Freedom was hoisted to its crown in December 1863.

The building houses the Senate and House chambers, the Capitol Rotunda with its Brumidi frescoes, and the old Supreme Court chamber.