Capitol Lyrics: "America the Beautiful"
The lyrics of this patriotic song are found easily at the U.S. Capitol. Once inside the building, a portion of it can be found painted in the Cox Corridors of the south wing.
Delve deeper into the stories behind the people, art, history and grounds.
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History & Discoveries
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By Sarah Davis | July 1, 2025
The lyrics of this patriotic song are found easily at the U.S. Capitol. Once inside the building, a portion of it can be found painted in the Cox Corridors of the south wing.
By Madeleine Lucchetti | January 2, 2025
The bald eagle is painted, sculpted and carved throughout the Capitol campus. Its white head, wide wingspan and gnarled talons are ubiquitous.
By Kristen Frederick | October 18, 2024
Visit Congressional Cemetery and discover the many connections the Architect of the Capitol has to this hallowed ground.
By Franklin Bradley | October 11, 2024
The Rotunda was completed under the direction of Charles Bulfinch by the time of the visit of the Marquis de Lafayette in October 1824.
By AOC Staff | July 26, 2024
The 2024 Olympic mascot is a conical cap, the Phryge, a French symbol of freedom, but it symbolized freedom in the United States before the French adopted it.
By Capitol Grounds and Arboretum | April 26, 2024
Celebrating the history of tree planting and tree preservation at the U.S. Capitol Grounds by highlighting some of the oldest trees on the grounds.
By Franklin Bradley | April 12, 2024
Thomas Jefferson, inspired by skylights he saw in Paris, prevailed upon the Architect of the Capitol to include something similar in the U.S. Capitol's new chamber for the House of Representatives. However, all the skylights came to an untimely end.
By Michele Cohen, Ph D | 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.
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."
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.
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.
By Curator Division | 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.
By Madeleine Lucchetti | April 28, 2023
This Arbor Day, we celebrate the Capitol Grounds and Arboretum team's continued efforts to preserve and protect Olmsted's legacy — one of longstanding stewardship that's paying off every day.
By Franklin Bradley | February 13, 2023
By Franklin Bradley | February 2, 2023