Pennsylvania State Capitol

The Pennsylvania State Capitol is a government building in Renaissance Revival style located in Harrisburg, the capital of the namesake state in the eastern United States. The central dome rises 272 feet (83 m) above the surrounding complex and shapes the skyline of the city along the Susquehanna River shore.

Joseph Miller Huston designed the building after a fire destroyed the previous capitol in 1897. Construction started in 1902 and ended four years later with a dedication ceremony attended by President Theodore Roosevelt.

The name traces back to William Penn's vision of a religiously tolerant colony in the 17th century. Today the building displays works by native artists through murals, glass windows and sculptures that visitors encounter while walking through halls and staircases.

Tours run every half hour during weekdays and follow set schedules on weekends, with admission offered at no charge. Access is through the Welcome Center at the main entrance, where visitors check in and receive information about the premises.

The rotunda inside displays images of Pennsylvania wildlife and plant life in colored glass mosaics lit by daylight. This decoration links political power with the natural surroundings of the state in a way that often surprises visitors.

Location: Harrisburg

Location: Pennsylvania

Inception: August 15, 1906

Architects: Joseph Miller Huston

Architectural style: Renaissance Revival architecture

Part of: list of buildings in the Pennsylvania State Capitol Complex

Website: http://legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/legis/home/toursWelcome.cfm

GPS coordinates: 40.26444,-76.88361

Latest update: December 14, 2025 19:30