Pennsylvania State Capitol | Harrisburg

The Pennsylvania State Capitol in Harrisburg is a stunning and historically significant building that serves as the seat of government for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Completed in 1906 and designed by architect Joseph M. Huston, it is widely regarded as one of the most architecturally impressive state capitols in the United States. The building combines Beaux-Arts and Renaissance Revival architectural styles, reflecting grandeur, artistry, and meticulous craftsmanship.

Architectural Design and Exterior Features

Dome: The Capitol's most striking feature is its dome, inspired by St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. Rising 272 feet above the ground, the dome is covered in 24-karat gold leaf, shimmering brilliantly in sunlight. Atop the dome stands the 14-foot-tall gilded bronze statue called the "Commonwealth," sculpted by Roland Hinton Perry. This statue symbolizes the spirit and strength of Pennsylvania.

Sculpture Groups at the Entrance: Flanking the west entrance are two monumental sculptures by George Grey Barnard:

The Burden of Life: The Broken Law symbolizes the struggles and hardships faced by people.

Love and Labor: The Unbroken Law represents hope, love, and the promise of a better future through hard work.

Interior Highlights

Rotunda: Inside the Capitol, the Rotunda is a grand space beneath the dome, featuring 48 skylight portholes and illuminated by nearly 40,000 lights. The Rotunda is decorated with ornate murals and features quotations from Pennsylvania’s founder, William Penn, wrapping around its upper ring. This creates a solemn yet inspiring atmosphere symbolizing the state's values and history.

Legislative Chambers: The building houses the chambers of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives and Senate, where legislative work is carried out in richly decorated rooms featuring elegant woodwork, stained glass, murals, and historic artifacts.

Governor's Office and Supreme Court: Besides the legislature, the Capitol contains the Governor's offices and the Pennsylvania Supreme Court chambers, all designed with artistic and historic significance.

Antique Clocks: Unique to the Pennsylvania Capitol are 273 antique clocks incorporated into the building’s design, many embedded in fireplace mantels and other architectural elements. These clocks are mechanical masterpieces that require weekly winding and regular maintenance, preserving a piece of craftsmanship history. This maintenance work is carried out by specialists, including Harrisburg-based clock winders.

Artistic and Historical Significance

The Pennsylvania State Capitol is often described as a "palace of art" due to its wealth of sculptures, murals, mosaics, and decorative elements created by some of the era's most notable artists. It is listed as a National Historic Landmark, recognizing its importance in American architectural and political history.

Visiting the Capitol

Guided Tours: Visitors can take guided tours offered Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and on weekends and most holidays at several set times (9:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m., and 3:00 p.m.). Tours last about 30 minutes and provide an in-depth look at the building’s history, architecture, and artwork.

Self-Guided Tours: For a more flexible visit, self-guided tours are available during weekdays, supported by mobile apps or brochures, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace.

Accessibility and Parking: The Capitol is accessible to visitors with disabilities, and street parking is available nearby. Special parking promotions are offered, such as free four-hour parking on Saturdays with a specific Parkmobile app code.

Location

The Pennsylvania State Capitol is situated in downtown Harrisburg at the intersection of 3rd and State Streets, making it easy to access and a central landmark in the city.

This building stands as a symbol of Pennsylvania’s rich heritage, combining governmental function with artistic beauty. Its meticulous architectural details, artistic embellishments, and historical significance make it a must-see destination for visitors interested in history, art, and politics.