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

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Behind the Scenes

Built to Last

From Project Mastery to People Skills, Women in Construction Build Up the AOC
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History & Discoveries

Evolution of Women in Art at the U.S. Capitol

By michele cohen | March 12, 2024

An in-depth look at the evolution of women in art at the U.S. Capitol. First appearing primarily as allegorical figures representing ideals, not individuals. Later, as women took on more prominent positions in society and won basic rights, greater opportunities and visibility have led to more.

History & Discoveries

Capitol Illumination

By franklin bradley | March 6, 2024

The Architect of the Capitol makes the U.S. Capitol Dome, an enduring symbol of democracy recognized throughout the world, visible to all throughout the night. Learn more about the history of lighting this iconic building including the part of the Dome called the "tholos."

History & Discoveries

Artfully Yours, George Washington

By erin courtney | February 22, 2024

Our first president had a significant impact on the nation and, while George Washington never actually graced the halls of the United States Capitol, his presence, influence and even his likeness, is everywhere. Approximately 35 pieces of art include Washington's likeness in the U.S. Capitol.

Behind the Scenes

Summer Interns Gain Experience for Future Seasons of Their Careers

By Madeleine Lucchetti | December 5, 2023

Every summer, dozens of skilled tradespeople and public service aspirants from around the country brave the Washington, D.C., humidity to come and intern for the Architect of the Capitol (AOC). Once they arrive, they're dispatched across the Capitol campus to every jurisdiction, where they take on special projects and assignments with their unique AOC teams.

Programs & Events

It Takes a Village To Prepare the People's Tree

By carol campos | November 17, 2023

For many people around the country, the start of the holiday season is marked by selecting and decorating a Christmas tree. Likewise, the holidays start on Capitol Hill when the Christmas tree arrives on the Capitol campus. A team of employees from the Architect of the Capitol (AOC) work seamlessly and tirelessly to ensure that the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree is ready to spread holiday cheer to visitors from all over the country and around the world.

History & Discoveries

Unearthing Capitol Hill's Buried History

By kristen frederick | October 25, 2023

Visit Congressional Cemetery and discover the many connections the Architect of the Capitol has to this hallowed ground.

Behind the Scenes

Meet the Team: AOC University

By carol campos | October 18, 2023

The AOC University team has a clear sense of purpose to make learning fun, increase employee engagement, encourage retention of valued talent and attract the next generation of AOC leaders.

History & Discoveries

How Two Tiny "Houses" Ended Up on the National Mall

By Madeleine Lucchetti | October 10, 2023

The pencil-like shape of the Washington Monument, the grand pediment of the Lincoln Memorial and the Capitol Dome are all emblematic shapes of Washington, D.C. But in addition to these architectural juggernauts, two smaller, more understated buildings on the National Mall often draw the eye.

Behind the Scenes

Built to Last

By Madeleine Lucchetti | September 20, 2023

From Project Mastery to People Skills, Women in Construction Build Up the AOC

History & Discoveries

A Most Magnificent Ruin: The Burning of the Capitol during the War of 1812

By aoc curator | August 1, 2023

In retaliation for Americans burning the Canadian capital at York (Toronto) on April 27, 1813, British troops would later descend on Washington, D.C., setting fire to much of the city. Follow the path the British took in 1814 to burn the U.S. Capitol and learn more about damage done to this historic building.

Programs & Events

Christmas in July in Wonderful West Virginia

By jim kaufmann | July 25, 2023

To most, July in Washington, D.C., means hot weather and Independence Day celebrations. At the Architect of the Capitol it also means it's time to go Christmas tree hunting!