Sometime last week, I can't remember the exact day so let's go with Tuesday, I went on a tour of the Dome of the Capitol. The tour isn't exactly open to the general public, because you have to attend with a Congressman or Chief of Staff... lucky me! I had no idea what to expect, but this tour exceeded any expectations I did create in my mind. Many people have seen pictures of the dome of the Capitol, but very few have been inside it. Let's just say I didn't know I was afraid of heights until this day. I had been on the floor of the Rotunda (which is the room where you are standing at the bottom of the dome) but never on the top looking down (which I don't recommend for those afraid of heights-18 stories is a long way to fall). Here's a picture taken from my cell phone looking down from the dome to the floor of the Rotunda:
After what felt like a million steps, we made it to the top of the dome which was amazing. Looking down from over the rail wasn't quite the same effect, but being that close to the top of an 18 story, 9 million pound piece of architecture is pretty cool to say the least. Once you get to the top you get to see the 4,500 square foot painting called The Apotheosis of George Washington. Here it is:
And like always the picture does it no justice. After seeing the artwork on the top of the dome, you climb more steps and head outside to the 2nd highest building in DC, behind the Washington monument. The balcony of the top of the Dome circles around the entire building, allowing you to see all of the DC area in one place. Here's the Library of Congress and the Supreme Court.
Oh, and who could forget the Occupy Congress protestors who stood outside of the Capitol in freezing cold, windy weather and even entered the building to "occupy Congress." Sorry for the crappy quality, it was taken from 18 stories high (I'm aware I keep repeating how many stories high I was, but it adds dramatic effect, and makes it seem so much cooler) from an old beat up Blackberry. Also, notice the Capitol police perfectly lined across the entrance of the building.
Needless to say, my legs were flubber for two days following this event. This is one of the neatest experiences I have had so far. Being at the top and outside of such a prestigious and recognizable building was humbling. That may sound cheesy, but it's an experience I'll never forget...especially now since I'm writing about it in my blog and posting it on the internet.
Goodnight from the nation's capitol!
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