The Utah State Capitol is the base of a complex of buildings on Capitol Hill, overlooking the city center. The meetings of the Senate and the House of Representatives are held in this place, the office of the governor and his deputy is open. The Government residence is open to the public, admission is free for everyone.
History of creation
The building was designed by Richard Carl August Kletting, one of the most influential architects in the history of Utah. The construction of the Utah State Capitol was carried out in 1912-1916. The dome is 87 meters high, and combined with its elevated location, it has become the city's most prominent landmark.
The Utah State Capitol has been on the Register of Historic Places since 1978. In 2004, large-scale restoration works with seismic modernization began here. During this period, the foundation was strengthened, which allows the building to withstand earthquakes, and the original architectural details were restored to their original appearance. The wiring, heating and plumbing were upgraded, and the original furniture was restored, including a walnut table imported from Russia.
Short description
The design of the Utah State Capitol resembles the best examples of the classical style of architecture. The length of the government residence exceeds 120 meters, the width is 73 meters, and the dome height is 86.9 meters. The building is finished in granite, the facade, as intended, looks symmetrical, with 10-meter columns set against its background.
What's inside:
- The first floor of the Utah State Capitol is a spacious hall, the ceiling is glass, so it lets in light from the upper floor. The interior painting of the dome, which reaches a height of 50 meters, was designed by William Slater. Gulls in flight are depicted here, the bird is considered a symbol of Utah. According to archival data, in 1848 seagulls saved the people from the invasion of locusts. In honor of this event, they erected a monument in Temple Square.
- Below, the dome is decorated with a cyclorama with historical scenes. When the opening took place, the place was left empty, the cyclorama was completed later, and it harmoniously fit into the overall structure. Here, on the second floor, there is a reception room, which is called the "golden hall".
- The meeting rooms are located on the third floor, the next floor shows the galleries of the parliament. Visitors can see the atmosphere in which legislators work and appreciate the solemn atmosphere of the parliamentary halls.
How to get
The Utah State Capitol can be viewed with or without a guide. It is open to visitors all year round, but it is recommended to check the schedule when planning a visit.
Buses run near the landmark. 200, 205, 209, 223, 451, 455, 470, 472, F11. You can also order a taxi or take a private/rented car. There are public parking lots next to the building.
Gallery
