Trip ideas while visiting Austin in Texas
Texas’s legislative center, the State Capitol, proudly stands in central Austin. This iconic building, constructed in 1888, is made of exquisite Texas sunset red granite. Surpassing the height of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., by 14 feet, it serves as a symbol of Texas pride and history. Recognized for its significance, the Texas Capitol holds a place on the National Register of Historic Places and was honored with the designation of a National Historic Landmark in 1986.
Starting in the 1990s, a significant restoration project was undertaken to revitalize the structure. As part of this endeavor, the original zinc statue of the Goddess of Liberty, which sits atop the dome, was replaced with a new one made of aluminum. Additionally, an underground extension spanning 667,000 square feet was constructed to cater to the growing needs of the state government.