Washington, D. C. Is the center of political power in the United States and a place steeped in history and tradition. The architecture is striking, often evoking ancient civilizations and cultures. Tourists generally make Pennsylvania Avenue the first stop when they visit. Most make sure to visit George Washington's monument and Abraham Lincoln's memorial. For those interested in a place where all of these elements coincide, taking a US Capitol tour is a must.

Rules have changed over the years, and today, it is not possible to just walk into a Congressional building and roam freely. You have to check at the visitor's center and go through security. If you haven't registered in advance for one of these tours, you will have to wait for an opening to become available. Guides will only handle so many people at a time, and the tours are popular. Contacting your Congressman's office to get registered ahead of your visit is a good idea.

The Crypt has an interesting name and an interesting history. The multiple Doric columns originally supported the massive Rotunda above it and were designed by the first native born American architect. Although Congress originally planned the area as a tomb for George Washington, their plans were never realized. The President and First Lady remained interred at Mount Vernon. Instead there are thirteen statues representing the first thirteen colonies.

You can't tour this building without spending time in the Rotunda. It is extremely impressive with all the works of art adorning the walls, and the friezes overhead that depict historical events in our nation's history. The Rotunda will probably look familiar even if you have never actually been there before. This is where Presidents and other dignitaries have lain in state.

In between the Rotunda and the House wing is the National Statuary Hall. There are currently thirty-five statues lining the walls that were contributions from various states celebrating distinguished citizens. Each state has contributed a total of one hundred statues, two for each state, and the remaining sixty-five are placed in strategic locations throughout the Capitol building.

There are a number of other tours visitors are welcome to take. Some include Exhibition Hall where visitors can get an up close and personal history lesson on the country and how the government was formed and still works today. You can tour the grounds with its monuments, fountains, and Capitol's beautiful reflecting pool.

Visiting such an important place requires a certain amount of respect and courtesy. There is no formal dress code, but visitors are expected to dress appropriately for the surroundings. No food or drink is allowed in the building, and cell phones should be silenced.

Even visitors who are not very familiar with the nation's history will be impressed with the grandeur of this congressional building. The attention to detail alone should give people a sense of the seriousness of this place. Along with the White House and the Supreme Court, the Capitol is where decisions are made that affect everyone.