Pan American Union Building

The Pan American Union Building is an office structure on Constitution Avenue featuring marble walls from Georgia, a red ceramic tile roof, and three monumental bronze gates set within arched portals. The building sits close to the White House and serves as the headquarters of the Organization of American States.

Architects Albert Kelsey and Paul Philippe Cret completed the structure in 1910 with funding from Pan American Union member states and Andrew Carnegie. The project embodied the desire to bring continental nations together through a symbolic center.

The building displays various artworks, including friezes depicting North and South America where a bald eagle and condor face each other in symbolic unity. These artistic representations reflect the connection between the continents.

The building sits roughly 200 yards from the White House and opens to visitors through guided tours of the interior spaces. It is easily accessible and offers good views of the architectural style and art collections.

The structure features a central courtyard that merges ancient Greek and Roman layouts with Mediterranean and American architectural traditions. This hidden space creates a quiet retreat in the midst of the busy street.

Location: Washington, D.C.

Inception: 1910

Architects: Albert Kelsey, Paul Philippe Cret

GPS coordinates: 38.89288,-77.04026

Latest update: December 8, 2025 13:43