Posted by Our Adventures with Tassie Categories: Pennsylvania

Pennslyvania State Capitol ~ Harrisburg

It was a rainy day when we went to visit Pennsylvania’s State Capitol and Historic District but we didn’t let that slow us down one bit. Of course we couldn’t get out and walk around like we love to do but we still managed to have fun seeing all the Gothic, Renaissance and Italian style buildings and churches. We love visiting State Capitals and Historic Districts and this did not let us down.

Churches of Harrisburg

Harrisburg has been an important transportation center since the days of riverboat traffic. It’s western boundary is formed by the Susquehanna River. This location played an important part in it’s selection as the capital of Pennsylvania in 1812. Because of its location Harrisburg played a large part in the early development of the Pennsylvania canal system and the subsequent development of the railroads, highways and airlines. Today Harrisburg is one of the most important commercial centers and distribution points in the East.

Harrisburg Capitol ~ Front ~ Dome ~ Side ~ Back

In colonial days, John Harris operated a ferry at Harrisburg. His son, John Jr., laid out the town of Harrisburg in 1785, and gave land to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania that was later used for the Capitol grounds. The capitol building is an Italian Renaissance-style statehouse. It is an example of outstanding architecture, with collections of art and sculpture, including large murals. On the floor of the main hallway, tiles show Pennsylvania’s history, symbols, insects and animals.

At the dedication of the Capitol Building in 1906, President Teddy Roosevelt described this structure as “the hamsomest building I have ever seen”. The capitol dome rises 272 feet. The vaulted dome weighs 52 million pounds, and was modeled after St Peter’s Basilica in Rome. It’s beautiful staircase looks like one from Paris Opera.

Harrisburg Historic District

The capitol is often referred to as a “palace of art” because of its many sculptures, murals and stained-glass windows, most of which use Pennsylvania themes or were made by Pennsylvanians. The building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1977 and was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2006. Starting in 1982, the restoration of the capitol has been ongoing.