WASHINGTON DC, United States — Detail of the eastern facade of the Lincoln Memorial on the National Mall, showcasing the neoclassical architecture with its pink granite columns and roof. The memorial, designed by architect Henry Bacon and completed in 1922, features granite sourced from Massachusetts, exemplifying the grandeur of classical revival architecture in American monuments.
Photograph by David Coleman. The Lincoln Memorial, an iconic symbol of American democracy and one of the most visited monuments in Washington, , stands as a testament to neoclassical architecture and skilled stone masonry. Designed by architect Henry Bacon and completed in 1922, the memorial's exterior is primarily constructed of pink granite quarried from Massachusetts, giving it a distinctive hue that changes subtly with varying light conditions. The eastern facade, which serves as the main entrance, features a colonnade of 36 fluted Doric columns, each representing a state of the Union at the time of Lincoln's death. These massive columns, measuring 44 feet ( meters) in height, support the entablature and roof structure. The entablature consists of three main parts: the architrave, frieze, and cornice, all adorned with classical details and inscriptions. Above the entablature, the pediment showcases intricate stone carvings, adding to the memorial's visual complexity. The roof, also made of pink granite, is designed with a slight slope to facilitate drainage while maintaining the overall symmetry and proportion of the structure. This attention to both functionality and aesthetics is characteristic of the Greek Revival style that influenced many of Washington's most prominent buildings. The Lincoln Memorial's grand scale and meticulous craftsmanship make it not only a tribute to the 16th president but also a masterpiece of American architecture, attracting millions of visitors annually to marvel at its enduring beauty and historical significance.
Size: 3201px × 4802px
Location: Lincoln Memorial, Washington, District of Columbia, United States
Photo credit: © David Coleman | Have Camera Will Travel / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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