North Carolina State Capitol

 

State Capitol, East

The North Carolina State Capitol in Raleigh, shown from its east side in this photo, is a prominent example of Greek Revival architecture. Completed in 1840, it originally housed all branches of the state government. The building’s imposing façade features a portico with Doric columns and finely cut granite walls. Atop the structure, a low, copper-covered roof decorated with a honeysuckle crown was patterned after features of ancient Greek temples, reflecting the building's Greek Revival style. The statue in the foreground honors three U.S. Presidents from North Carolina: Andrew Jackson, James K. Polk, and Andrew Johnson.

Notable Details:
  • The honeysuckle motif decoration at the very top of the building.
  • Two men sharing a laugh at the entrance door.
  • The pedestal of the statue features inscriptions about the three presidents — James K. Polk: "He enlarged our national boundaries," Andrew Jackson: "He revitalized American democracy," and Andrew Johnson: "He defended the constitution." — Modern perspectives on these statements may vary.

NC Capitol East
Vatage point: 36°00'04.3"N 78°56'19.4"W
 

State Capitol, West

NC State Capitol west façade seen on Dec. 23, 2024. Preparations appeared to be underway for the inauguration of incoming governor Josh Stein (D), who beat out Mark Robinson (R) to win the gubernatorial election in November, 2024. With the Supreme Court and State Library having moved to a separate building in 1888, and the General Assembly to the State Legislative Building in 1963, only the governor and their immediate staff currently occupy offices in the Capitol.

Other notable aspects of the building:
  • Early Completion: Completed in 1840, it is one of the oldest state capitol buildings still in use as a functioning capitol. This makes it a significant historical landmark, having witnessed many key events in North Carolina's history.
  • Pure Greek Revival Style: The building is considered one of the purest examples of Greek Revival architecture in the US. Its design is based on the ancient Greek Doric order, evident in the prominent porticos with their simple, unfluted columns. This adherence to classical principles gives it a distinct and timeless appearance
  • Local Granite Construction: The Capitol is constructed primarily of granite sourced from local North Carolina quarries. This use of local materials not only gives the building a unique color and texture but also reflects the state's natural resources.
  • Early Completion: Completed in 1840, it is one of the oldest state capitol buildings still in use as a functioning capitol. This makes it a significant historical landmark, having witnessed many key events in North Carolina's history.

NC Capitol West
Vatage point: 35°35'46.1"N 82°32'43.5"W

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