Temple of Justice

The Temple of Justice is a government building on the Washington State Capitol Campus with a rectangular floor plan, extended wings, and sandstone exterior quarried from local sources. The structure features neoclassical design elements and contains courtrooms and legal library spaces.

Construction began in 1912 under architects Walter Wilder and Harry White and was completed in 1920. The project represented an expansion of the Capitol grounds during the early twentieth century.

The building serves as a visible symbol of the state's judicial authority and the sandstone walls contribute to the formal character of the Capitol grounds. Locals and visitors recognize it as a place where important legal decisions are made.

Access is available Monday through Friday from 8am to 5pm, with a south entrance facing the Legislative Building and an east ADA-accessible entry. Visitors should come during business hours when the building is fully open to the public.

The building hosted the inaugural ball of Governor Ernest Lister in January 1913 while interior construction was still ongoing. This shows how it quickly became a significant venue for state events before its completion.

Inception: 1920

GPS coordinates: 47.03700,-122.90500

Latest update: December 12, 2025 14:20