Connecticut State Capitol, Capitol building in Hartford, United States
The Connecticut State Capitol is an Eastlake Movement government building in downtown Hartford, the capital city of Connecticut state in the United States. The structure combines marble facades with a central domed tower rising 78 meters and numerous statues of historical figures along its exterior walls.
The third capitol building since the American Revolution opened in 1879 after the state decided to establish Hartford as its permanent capital instead of alternating with New Haven. Construction began in 1873 under the direction of architect Richard Upjohn and took six years to complete.
The Senate chamber displays an ornamental wooden ceiling in the Eastlake style, while the House of Representatives hall features large stained glass windows depicting scenes from colonial times. Both rooms remain in active use during legislative sessions and offer a window into the work of elected representatives.
Guided tours begin at the West Entrance of the Legislative Office Building and are available on weekdays during operating hours, with self-guided exploration also permitted. Visitors should bring a valid photo identification for entry and note that security screening at the entrance may take a few minutes.
The original bronze statue atop the dome, called The Genius of Connecticut, was removed after storm damage in 1938 and later melted down for World War II materials. Today a gilded dome cap stands in place of the lost figure.
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