The heart of the USA: Exploring Washington's iconic landmarks
In November, Americans will choose their president. In the coming weeks, the eyes of the entire world will be on Washington. How did the capital of the USA come to be, and what is worth seeing there?
Americans pride themselves on creating their country from scratch, on their own terms. The same was true for Washington.
Let's build a capital
Washington is one of the few capitals in the world built from scratch specifically to serve as a capital. Before the newly formed, independent United States constitution was adopted, New York served as the national capital. In 1790, the temporary capital was moved to Philadelphia, approximately 150 kilometres away. However, neither location was optimal for the new country.
To ensure better communication and identification of all residents with the capital, it needed to be situated between the northern and southern states (at that time, the USA was limited to the east coast) and be outside any states, on separate territory.
George Washington chose the city's location in 1791. Washington knew the area well because he had an estate in nearby Mount Vernon. By the decision of the first president of the USA, an independent District of Columbia was delineated from the states of Maryland and Virginia, where Washington is located. French architect Pierre Charles L’Enfant designed the city, and the design and construction of the White House were entrusted to the Irishman James Hoban.
The most important house in America
The neoclassical White House is one of the most filmed and photographed buildings in the world. Here, US presidents deliver speeches during press conferences and special occasions, with crowds of tourists and voters gathering by its fence throughout the year.
The White House is open to tourists; visits are free, but tickets must be reserved in advance from 7 to 30 days.
The Pentagon, Gutenberg Bible, and Kosciuszko
The second most popular building in Washington is the Capitol and the seat of the US Congress. The ceiling of its characteristic dome is adorned with a painting reminiscent of Vatican artworks, depicting George Washington in the role of God.
The Capitol is also the site of numerous ceremonies and events, such as presidential inaugurations, political speeches, and national celebrations. It is open to tourists, just like the nearby Library of Congress, the oldest library in the USA. Its collections include over 30 million books, prints, maps, and recordings. Visitors can see a copy of the Gutenberg Bible here.
Washington is home to numerous embassies, museums, including the International Spy Museum, the Pentagon, and the National Archives. The spirit of past eras can be felt in the historic Georgetown district. In the National Mall park near the White House, you can also find the statue of Tadeusz Kosciuszko, a hero of the American Revolutionary War.
When and for how long?
In the coming weeks, Washington will be visited even more than usual. You can admire the colourful American fall, but it is worth visiting the US capital in the spring. - The Tidal Basin is famous for its cherry trees, which bloom in white and pink around the turn of March and April. This is one of the most popular tourist periods in the US capital, but in fact, any season is a good time to visit. Of course, the weather will be most favourable in the summer.
How many days should you spend in Washington? Two days if you want to see the most important attractions (monuments and buildings) and one or two museums. For American history and culture enthusiasts, we recommend three or four days, allowing more time to visit museums and Arlington Cemetery and perhaps take a trip outside the city.
