Idaho State Capitol
Idaho
The Idaho State Capitol, located in Boise, serves as the seat of the state government and is a prominent symbol of Idaho's political heritage. Construction began in 1905, fifteen years after Idaho became the 43rd state, and was completed in 1920. Designed by architects John E. Tourtellotte and Charles Hummel, the building showcases Classical architectural styles inspired by Ancient Rome and Greece, as well as iconic structures like St. Peter’s Basilica and the U.S. Capitol. Its sandstone exterior was quarried locally from Table Rock, and the interior features four types of marble sourced from various regions, including Georgia, Alaska, Vermont, and Italy. The Capitol's dome, crowned with a bronze eagle, stands 208 feet tall and is a defining feature. Inside, visitors can admire 219 intricately crafted pillars made from marble dust and scagliola, a faux marble technique. The first floor's dome ceiling displays stars representing the original colonies and Idaho’s statehood, along with a compass rose and a sundial embedded with Idaho minerals. The building houses important offices such as the governor’s and lieutenant governor’s, legislative chambers, and historic artworks including murals by Dana Boussard. A major restoration was undertaken starting in 1998 to preserve its architectural grandeur and modernize facilities, including accessibility improvements. The Idaho State Capitol is not only a functioning government building but also a historic landmark listed on the National Register of Historic Places, offering visitors a rich experience of Idaho’s governmental and cultural history.
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Astuce: Visitors are advised to check the Idaho State Capitol's official website or contact the visitor services for current opening hours and any guided tours availability. The best time to visit is during the warmer months when the building is fully accessible and the surrounding area is pleasant for walking. Booking tours in advance is recommended, especially during legislative sessions or special events. Accessibility features, including an elevator, are available for visitors with disabilities. There may be opportunities for group discounts or educational visits for students.
Faits intéressants
- •The Capitol dome is surmounted by a bronze eagle measuring 5 feet 7 inches tall.
- •The building contains 219 pillars made from a mixture including marble dust and scagliola, an Italian faux marble technique.
- •The first floor dome features 13 large stars representing the original colonies and 43 smaller stars for Idaho's statehood order.
- •The floor's compass rose contains a sundial embedded with minerals found in Idaho.
- •The sandstone exterior was quarried locally from Table Rock in Ada County.
Histoire
Idaho’s capital was originally in Lewiston after the Idaho Territory was established in 1863 but moved to Boise in 1864.
The state was admitted to the Union as the 43rd state in 1890.
Construction of the current Capitol building began in 1905 and was completed in 1920, designed by Tourtellotte & Hummel.
The building has undergone significant restoration since 1998 to preserve its original architectural details and update its infrastructure, ensuring it remains a functional and historic statehouse.
Guide du lieu
The Dome and Bronze Eagle1920
The Capitol's dome rises 208 feet and is topped by a 5 feet 7 inches tall bronze eagle, symbolizing freedom and vigilance. The dome's interior features stars representing the original colonies and Idaho's statehood.
The Marble Pillars1920
The building contains 219 pillars of Doric, Corinthian, or Ionic style, crafted using marble dust, plaster, and scagliola, an artificial marble technique developed by Italian artisans.
First Floor Dome Ceiling and Floor1920
Visitors can view 13 large stars and 43 smaller stars on the dome ceiling, representing the original colonies and Idaho's place as the 43rd state. The floor features a compass rose with a sundial containing Idaho minerals, and the statue 'The Patriot' honoring mining industry workers.
Legislative Chambers and Historic Art1968 (remodel)
The third floor houses the Senate and House of Representatives chambers, remodeled in 1968, and the old Supreme Court room now used for committee meetings. Historic paintings and murals by Dana Boussard adorn the fourth-floor galleries.
Contact
Téléphone: (208) 332-1012
