Massachusetts State House, Capitol building in Beacon Hill, Boston, United States.
Description
The Massachusetts State House is a capitol building in Beacon Hill, Boston, serving as the seat of the state legislature. The structure sits on an elevated site overlooking Boston Common and displays a white brick facade with a gilded dome rising above the surrounding streets.
History
Charles Bulfinch designed the building, which was completed in 1798 and has served as the headquarters of state government ever since. Construction expanded Beacon Hill as a government district and marked an important step in Boston's post-Revolutionary urban development.
Culture
The golden dome received its current gilding during a late-20th-century renovation, after it had been painted black to hide it from enemy view during World War II. Inside, the building displays a series of paintings and sculptures depicting major moments from Massachusetts history, giving visitors a window into the state's political evolution.
Practical
Free guided tours run on weekdays and begin at the public entrance, with visiting hours sometimes varying based on legislative session schedules. Security screening at the entrance requires bags and personal items to be checked, so allow extra time.
Did you know?
The dome restoration in 1997 required 23-karat gold leaf, and the amount used would be roughly the size of a pineapple when compressed. Beneath the dome sits a time capsule placed by Paul Revere and Samuel Adams in 1795, rediscovered during renovation work.
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