Mansion Hill Historic District

Mansion Hill Historic District is a residential neighborhood north of Capitol Square containing approximately 161 buildings across 49 acres. The structures date mainly from the 19th century and sit near Lake Mendota and downtown Madison.

The neighborhood emerged in the 19th century as a prosperous residential area for business owners and professionals. Demolitions began in the 1950s and 1970s, prompting residents to take action, and in 1976 Madison established its first protected historic district.

The streets display architecture primarily from the 19th century in different styles that still shape the neighborhood's appearance today. Many Italian Renaissance and Queen Anne houses are visible, defining this residential area's visual character.

Access to the streets is free and the area is easily explored on foot with ample street parking available. Visitors should know that many houses are privately owned and can only be viewed from the outside.

Gates of Heaven Synagogue was designed by August Kutzbock in 1863 and displays German Renaissance Revival architectural elements. This building is one of the few religious structures in the neighborhood and is often overlooked despite being an architectural treasure.