WASHINGTON, , United States — The Thomas Jefferson Memorial is reflected in the still waters of the Tidal Basin at night. The neoclassical monument, dedicated to the third president of the United States, is illuminated against the dark sky. The domed structure and its mirror image create a symmetrical scene on the National Mall.


Photograph by David Coleman. The Thomas Jefferson Memorial, located on the southern shore of the Tidal Basin in Washington, , stands as a testament to one of America's most influential Founding Fathers. Dedicated in 1943, this neoclassical structure was designed by architect John Russell Pope, drawing inspiration from the Pantheon in Rome and Jefferson's own architectural preferences. The memorial's central feature is a 19-foot bronze statue of Thomas Jefferson, standing beneath a domed rotunda supported by 54 Ionic columns. The interior walls are inscribed with excerpts from the Declaration of Independence and Jefferson's other writings, reflecting his contributions to American democracy and philosophy. At night, the memorial is dramatically illuminated, its white marble exterior glowing against the darkness. The still waters of the Tidal Basin often provide a mirror-like surface, creating a stunning reflection of the monument. This reflective quality is particularly pronounced during calm evenings, offering photographers and visitors alike a captivating visual experience. The Tidal Basin, an artificial reservoir between the Potomac River and the Washington Channel, is surrounded by cherry trees gifted from Japan in 1912. These trees burst into bloom each spring, framing the Jefferson Memorial in pink and white blossoms during the National Cherry Blossom Festival, typically held in late March to early April. The memorial is part of the National Mall and Memorial Parks, administered by the National Park Service. Its location places it in proximity to other significant monuments and memorials, including the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, and the Washington Monument. This concentration of national landmarks makes the area a focal point for millions of visitors each year, seeking to engage with America's history and ideals.


Size: 5472px × 3648px
Location: Tidal Basin, Washington DC, District of Columbia, United States
Photo credit: © David Coleman | Have Camera Will Travel / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No

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