Minnesota State Capitol

The Minnesota State Capitol, designed by noted architect Cass Gilbert, is a Renaissance Revival masterpiece of the Beaux Arts School. The classically styled building, which boasts the second largest self-supported marble dome in the world, features 23 different types of stone, including 16 varieties of marble from around the world, and granite and limestone from Minnesota. Spectacular murals and heroic historical paintings created by some of the finest artists of the early 20th century grace the chambers and hallways. While the building's technology has been updated periodically to accommodate the changing needs of state government, many of the original furnishings and lighting fixtures designed by the architect are still in place throughout the building. The State Capitol Historic Site serves the state by providing leadership through interpretation of the history of the Minnesota State Capitol and state government – both historical and current – and to teach the political process and inspire citizen participation in Government. As stewards of the historic building, the staff strive to preserve and restore Cass Gilbert's original architecture and artistic vision for future generations. The Capitol became part of the Society's historic site program in 1969 and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1972. The Society is responsible for the Capitol's furnishings and artwork, and it oversees preservation work, leads tours of the building, and provides special events and educational programs.