United States Capitol

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Facts & Features
The U.S. Capitol occupies a central place in the city of Washington's and U.S. political life. As the home of the legislative branch, it is here that the nation's laws and regulations are crafted by U.S. senators and representatives. Architecturally, it is both a national landmark and also the axis for Pierre L'Enfant's grand design for Washington--the center of the city's quadrant system formed by the directional streets that emerge from each side of the building tract.
Friendly docents take visitors in tow, starting at the east entrance. Tours cover Capitol history, the Rotunda, the Statuary Hall, the Crypt and either the House or Senate gallery. For an up-close look at government in action, attend one of the many congressional committee meetings open to the public; all meetings are open to the public unless marked closed.