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The United States Capitol in Washington, D.C., is a symbol of the American people and their government, the meeting place of the nation's legislature. The Capitol also houses an important collection of American art, and it is an architectural achievement in its own right. It is a working office building as well as a tourist attraction visited by millions every year.

Construction of the U.S. Capitol began in 1793. In November 1800, the U.S. Congress met in the first completed portion, the north wing. In the 1850s, major extensions to the North and South ends of the Capitol were authorized because of the great westward expansion of our nation and the resultant growth of Congress. Since that time, the U.S. Capitol and its stately dome have become international symbols of our representative democracy.

Thousands of people work behind the scenes every day to keep Capitol Hill running smoothly. It is truly a "city within a city." The Architect of the Capitol is charged with the stewardship of buildings and grounds in the Capitol complex. The Architect's duties include the mechanical and structural maintenance of the buildings, preservation and restoration of art and architecture, and the arrangement of inaugural ceremonies and other ceremonies held in the building or on the grounds. Today, in addition to the Capitol, the Architect is responsible for the maintenance of all of the Congressional office buildings, the Library of Congress buildings, the United States Supreme Court building, the United States Botanic Garden, and the Robert A.Taft Memorial as well as other surrounding buildings. The Architect is appointed for a 10-year term by the President and approved by the Senate.

www.visitthecapitol.gov