Virginia State Capitol

Richmond's Role in the Confederacy

In 1861, following Virginia's secession from the Union, Richmond was designated as the capital of the Confederacy. The city's capitol building subsequently served as the home of both the state's General Assembly and the Confederate Congress. Today, this imposing structure attracts visitors interested in Virginia's governmental history and those eager to photograph its architecture, which benefited from the partial design by Thomas Jefferson. Charles-Louis Clérisseau, a French architect, also contributed to its design.

Exploring Capitol Square

Capitol Square, the area surrounding the capitol building, boasts several monuments dedicated to the civil rights movement and notable Virginians, such as Edgar Allan Poe and George Washington. Visitors are often pleasantly surprised by how engaging a visit to the capitol building can be; the unique architecture and informative guides receive consistent praise.

Visitor Reviews

Recent travelers have highlighted their positive experiences, noting the knowledgeable guides and recommending the free guided tours for a more in-depth understanding.

Hours

The capitol is open to the public Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and on Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m.

Tours

Free hour-long guided tours are available Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. On Sundays, tours run from 1 to 4 p.m. It is important to remember that this building is still the operational seat of Virginia's government, so checking the official website for legislative session details before your visit is advisable.