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Thomas Jefferson Building
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Library of Congress Thomas Jefferson Building, Library of Congress Cartouche by Olin L. Warner, detail of bronze doors at the main entrance of the Thomas Jefferson Building, Library of Congress, Washington, D.C. The cherubs are holding a cartouche with an oil lamp, representing “Research.” cartouche Library of Congress Library of Congress: ceiling of the Great Hall Melpomene Solon spandrel Uriel
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Thomas Jefferson Building

building, Washington, D.C., United States
Also known as: Congressional Library, Main Building
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Library of Congress
Library of Congress The African and Middle Eastern Reading Room in the Thomas Jefferson Building, Library of Congress, Washington, D.C.

The Thomas Jefferson Building, located in Washington, D.C., is a significant structure within the Library of Congress complex. Originally known as the Congressional Library or Main Building, it was completed in 1897 and later designated the Thomas Jefferson Building. Designed in the Italian Renaissance style, it houses the Main Reading Room and was magnificently restored a century after its completion.1

This building is a prime example of the Federal style in American architecture, a revival of Roman architectural principles that flourished from 1785 to 1820. Thomas Jefferson himself was a key proponent of this style, influencing governmental buildings and public structures. His designs, such as the Virginia State Capitol and the University of Virginia, drew heavily from ancient Roman temples like the Maison Carrée and the Pantheon. The Jefferson Memorial, also in Washington, D.C., further reflects this classical influence, inspired by the Pantheon and Jefferson's own Rotunda at the University of Virginia.234

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5 Britannica Sources
  1. Federal style
  2. Monticello
  3. Library of Congress
  4. Jefferson Memorial
  5. Western architecture - United States

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