Virginia State Capitol

Virginia State Capitol is on Capitol Square at 1000 Bank St. Designed by Thomas Jefferson, this “Temple on the Hill” was first occupied in 1788 and is still home to America’s oldest elected legislature.

The U.S. Bill of Rights was ratified here in 1791. Among other significant American events, former Vice President Aaron Burr was tried for treason at the Capitol in 1807, and Robert E. Lee received his commission as commander of the Virginia forces in 1861. Winston Churchill addressed the Virginia Assembly in 1946, and L. Douglas Wilder was sworn in as the country’s first elected African American governor in 1990.

Visitors will find important historical statuary and paintings, rare exhibit objects and beautifully restored old and new legislative chambers. A magnificent statue of George Washington stands under the interior dome of the two-story rotunda, surrounded by marble busts of seven other Virginia-born presidents.

Metered street parking and parking garages are nearby.

Guided tours are available. Food is available.