Palacio Federal Legislativo, Legislative palace in Catedral district, Caracas, Venezuela
The Palacio Federal Legislativo is a neoclassical palace in the Catedral district of Caracas, where Venezuela's National Assembly convenes. Two rectangular buildings enclose a planted courtyard with a fountain and connect through lower sections.
Antonio Guzmán Blanco commissioned the construction between 1872 and 1877 after taking power as president. Luciano Urdaneta Vargas designed the neoclassical building as part of urban renewal programs during that period.
The Elliptical Hall preserves Venezuela's handwritten Declaration of Independence beneath its gilded dome. Visitors find a large painting by Martín Tovar y Tovar inside this room, depicting the Battle of Carabobo and representing a central moment in the nation's history.
The north complex contains the oval hall with its gilded dome, while the south complex holds the plenary chamber and administrative offices. Visitors should respect security measures, as the building still serves as the seat of the legislature.
The oval dome of the Elliptical Hall is fully covered in gold leaf and reaches a height of approximately 26 meters (85 feet). This gilded surface reflects daylight and makes the room glow in warm tones, creating a distinct visual impression when entering.
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