History & Discoveries
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From blocks of ice and wooden fans to modern air conditioning systems, the Architect of the Capitol has been doing what it takes to cool Congress for over 135 years.
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Public Notice
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The annual concert celebrating Independence Day will be broadcast live from the West Front of the U.S. Capitol. Here's what to know before you go.
History & Discoveries
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The AOC Curator Division maintains a small collection of objects related to Cox's work, representing project material left during his design and painting of the House corridors in the 1970s.
Public Notice
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Join us July 2-4, 2026, for our celebration! From 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. we will have free family-friendly events, interactive experiences and lots of patriotic fun.
Public Notice
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Join us for extended evening hours and live music when we stay open until 8 p.m. on select summer dates!
History & Discoveries
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Our Curator, Dr. Michele Cohen, is in the Capitol Crypt for the Magna Carta's anniversary. This entire display was made in England by artist Louis Osman, who had also crafted the crown for the investiture of Prince Charles.
Public Notice
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Upcoming in-person programs and tours, plus webinars and a new digital scavenger hunt, provided by the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center.
Public Notice
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Bands representing different branches of the military will perform weeknights at the U.S. Capitol.
Public Notice
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Here's what to know before you go to the annual National Memorial Day Concert at the U.S. Capitol on Sunday, May 24, 2026.
Project
This project will create a stand-alone structure nestled into the landscape that will serve as the new screening area prior to entering the House Wing (south entrance) of the U.S. Capitol.
Public Notice
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Whether you live in the area or are coming from afar, be sure to stop and see the cherry blossoms sprinkled throughout the U.S. Capitol campus.
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On behalf of a grateful Congress, this plaque honors the extraordinary individuals who bravely protected and defended this symbol of democracy on January 6, 2021.
History & Discoveries
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Today, one cannot walk far at the U.S. Capitol without seeing a likeness or connection to President Abraham Lincoln and the tumultuous period he served in Congress and the White House.
Public Notice
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The PAR offers an assessment of the priorities, accomplishments and financial accountability for fiscal year 2025. Capitol Highlights, infographics, charts, tables and photographs provide additional insight into the AOC's mission and performance.
History & Discoveries
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Take a look through the Architect of the Capitol's historical records to investigate the history of the squirrel at the U.S. Capitol.
Public Notice
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When a section of the U.S. Capitol Grounds opens on the West Front for community sledding during daylight hours (dawn to dusk), everyone is invited to join in the fun, but we ask that you remain safe and aware of the area and of workers who are clearing snow and ice.
History & Discoveries
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Benjamin Franklin remains one of the most celebrated figures in American history. The many pieces of art in the United States Capitol Building that include his image reflect his immense impact on our nation's development.
History & Discoveries
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All eyes are on the clocks as we countdown on New Years Eve. These clocks around the Capitol campus also get plenty of attention throughout the rest of the year.
Project
Many of the historic buildings under the Architect of the Capitol’s (AOC) care were constructed before the establishment of current accessibility standards and require upgrades to provide reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities.
Public Notice
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The statue, given by Virginia to the National Statuary Hall Collection, was dedicated in the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center's Emancipation Hall.
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Barbara Rose Johns led a 1951 walk-out protesting conditions at her segregated high school in Prince Edward County, Virginia. Virginia gave this statue to the National Statuary Hall Collection in 2025.
Public Notice
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For the first time, the Architect of the Capitol brings the holiday magic of the West Front to you via 360-degree, interactive panoramas.
Project
The Architect of the Capitol's commitment to sustainability is demonstrated through our robust energy conservation and sustainability programs. The agency incorporates sustainable design and construction practices into the major projects executed throughout Capitol Hill.
Behind the Scenes
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In the bleak winter, when most Washingtonians are looking to stay indoors, the Architect of the Capitol (AOC) Capitol Grounds and Arboretum team still spends a lot of time outside.
Public Notice
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Visiting the tree is free and open to the public. No ticket required.
Public Notice
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The popular annual holiday display "Season's Greening" returns to the U.S. Botanic Garden starting Thanksgiving Day! This year's theme of "Dino-Mite!" celebrates the model train show featuring dinosaurs, animals, and plants of the Cretaceous period.
Programs & Events
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Follow along as we travel to the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest to select the 2025 U.S. Capitol tree for the holiday season.
Public Notice
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Articles include spotlights on the Capitol Building Sheet Metal Shop and the congressional move process.
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Kentia palms, approximately five to six feet in height, are available to Senators and Representatives for rent for special events that are held on Capitol Hill.