Oregon State Capitol

The Oregon State Capitol is the house of government for the U.S. state of Oregon. Located in the state capital of Salem, it is a Renaissance Revival style building constructed from 1936 to 1938 using reinforced concrete. With its distinctive green-tinted copper roof and impressive height of 166 feet (51 m), the Capitol building makes a striking impression on the city skyline. The facade features monumental columns and architectural sculpture depicting paintings, quilts, and other symbols of Oregon culture and history.

The interior of the Capitol is just as grand and symbolic. The rotunda area features fluted columns, intricate carvings, and beautiful art deco chandeliers. On the arched ceiling is the founder's web, a mural depicting inspirational figures and scenes stretching back to the ancient world. The House and Senate chambers are decked out in heavy woodwork and vintage lighting fixtures. Perhaps the most iconic room is the marble terrazzo floor of the rotunda, designed with a square pattern surrounded by a circle to represent the concept of the state 'squaring the circle' or making the ideal real.

The Capitol grounds feature lush lawns, flower gardens, fountains, and statues commemorating important Oregonians like Dr. John McLoughlin, the 'Father of Oregon.' The building and its park-like setting make it a significant landmark and tourist attraction in Salem. As the working home of the state legislature and offices of the governor, it continues to serve as an important seat of Oregon's democratic government over 80 years after its construction.