WASHINGTON, DC, United States — The Capitol Columns stand majestically in the meadow of the National Arboretum, a unique display of repurposed architecture. These 22 Corinthian sandstone columns, originally part of the Capitol Building's East Portico from 1828 to 1958, now serve as a striking monument within the Department of Agriculture's educational and research reserve. Salvaged and relocated in 1990, they offer visitors a blend of historical significance and natural beauty in this off-the-beaten-path Washington landmark.
Photograph by David Coleman. The Capitol Columns at the National Arboretum present a captivating juxtaposition of classical architecture and natural landscape. These 22 Corinthian columns, made of sandstone from Virginia's Aquia Creek, stand proudly in the Ellipse Meadow, surrounded by open fields and carefully curated plant collections. Originally supporting the East Portico of the Capitol from 1828, these columns witnessed nearly 130 years of American history before being removed during the Capitol's expansion in 1958. Their relocation to the National Arboretum in 1990 transformed them from functional architectural elements into a thought-provoking monument and popular photographic subject. The columns' placement in the meadow, often reflected in a pool of water at their base, creates a scene reminiscent of ancient ruins, evoking a sense of timelessness and historical continuity. This unique installation not only preserves a piece of American architectural history but also serves as a focal point for the Arboretum's educational mission, illustrating the intersection of human craft and natural beauty. The National Arboretum itself, spanning 446 acres, is a living museum of trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants, showcasing the Department of Agriculture's commitment to horticultural research and education. The presence of the Capitol Columns within this setting offers visitors a rare opportunity to experience both the natural and cultural heritage of the United States in a tranquil, park-like environment away from the more crowded tourist areas of central Washington, DC.
Size: 2849px × 4290px
Location: National Arboretum, Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America
Photo credit: © David Coleman | Have Camera Will Travel / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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