United States Capitol Visitor Center
United States Capitol Visitor Center, Underground visitor center at the Capitol in Washington, United States
The United States Capitol Visitor Center sits entirely underground across three levels beneath the East Plaza of the Capitol in the American capital. The complex stretches between Constitution and Independence Avenues and houses exhibition spaces, theaters, and service facilities for tours of the legislative building.
The center opened in December 2008 after ten years of construction that cost over 600 million dollars. The facility was designed in response to security concerns and the desire to better control visitor flow while making the historic legislative building more accessible.
The central hall takes its name from Emancipation Hall, honoring enslaved laborers who helped build the Capitol itself. Visitors find a large plaster model of the Statue of Freedom here alongside media stations that share stories of the workers who shaped the building.
Visitors pass through airport-style security checks, and large bags or certain items are not allowed inside. Those planning a tour should arrive early in the morning or book online in advance, as spaces fill quickly and availability is limited.
The ceiling of Emancipation Hall is held up by massive columns arranged to distribute the weight of the plaza above. This underground room reaches nearly 60 feet (18 meters) in height, making it as tall as a six-story building despite being entirely below ground.
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