Delve deeper into the stories behind the people, art, history and grounds.

Subscribe to receive Blog updates via email.

View of a walkway and benches on the U.S. Capitol Grounds.

History & Discoveries

Top 5 Spots to Enjoy Spring on the Capitol Campus

Spring in Washington, D.C., is one of the most beautiful times to visit the nation's capital. Learn about five beautiful, and less known spots, to enjoy the warm weather near the U.S. Capitol.
Background Image
Programs & Events

A Holiday Tradition: AOC Trims the Tree

By lori taylor | November 17, 2011

Preparing the Christmas tree is a true team effort for the Architect of the Capitol. Find out how we work around the clock from tree selection to arrival, decoration and lighting.

Behind the Scenes

Industrial Mechanics: Behind the Scenes, but not Waiting in the Wings

By franklin bradley | October 20, 2011

Equivalent in size to six Empire State Buildings, the buildings of the U.S. Congress and Supreme Court must be operational at all times. Maintaining them at the highest level possible demands the best effort of the employees of the Architect of the Capitol and their equipment.

Behind the Scenes

Set in Stone—How the AOC Honors Historic Preservation

By kristen frederick | May 24, 2011

The Architect of the Capitol is responsible for the preservation and maintenance of the stone exterior of the U.S. Capitol as well as the exteriors of all of the other buildings on Capitol Hill. As the buildings have aged, the challenge of caring for their ornate stone facades has only increased.

Behind the Scenes

A New Home for a Capitol Treasure

By kristen frederick | January 21, 2011

It took both brawn and brains to move a beautiful (and hefty) treasure when the Magna Carta display was moved from the Capitol Rotunda to its new home in the Capitol Crypt.

History & Discoveries

Capitol Power Plant: A Century of Service

By aoc staff | December 5, 2010

The Capitol Power Plant has undergone significant changes as new buildings were built, and more modern and efficient equipment was installed, but what hasn't changed is the commitment of the staff. The plant's staff are highly-skilled and extremely dedicated — many have worked there for decades.

Projects

100 Year-Old Russell Senate Office Building: Getting Some "Work Done"

By aoc staff | May 13, 2010

The Russell Senate Office Building is looking really good for its age but, to keep it in tip-top condition, the Architect of the Capitol spent some time studying the building's exterior in preparation to clean, repair and restore the exterior envelope of this historic building.

History & Discoveries

Dome Keepers

By matt guilfoyle | March 13, 2010

The iconic "Walter dome" atop the Capitol is recognized around the world as a symbol of American strength and freedom. During its construction from 1855 to 1866, perhaps the greatest threat to the dome was the outbreak of the Civil War. To protect the capital city, a garrison of Union soldiers was stationed within the Capitol.