Growing up here, I've see the State Capitol - but it's been a long time - and it was sure worth another visit.
It could have been due to timing of visits as a student, but I've not been on the observation deck before now... wow!
The perfect day offered great views in all the directions of the compass - including down State Street to the University of Wisconsin campus. The up close view of the granite dome (the only one in the United States) was awe-inspiring, and the up close look at some of the sculptures looking on the city was a very cool experience (see one of the gentlemen of the capitol below).Inside from the observation deck is a display that circles behind the rotunda interior wall with artifacts uncovered in the recent renovation and some things that date back to the building that burnt to the ground in 1904. Very interesting stuff!
It was then we had a special treat. The guide/guard of the small spiral staircase to the observation deck asked if we wanted to see something... "sure."
He took us down the circular hall, unlocked a door and said we could take a look. Look at the picture to the left and you'll see a black rectangle - it was from there we could look from six stories above the ground floor of rotunda across and up.It put us closer to the top of the rotunda and it's painting of Miss Wisconsin surrounded by 13 maidens representing the state's resources.
Above that picture, the statue of Miss Wisconsin stands 8 stories higher shining in the sun.As I recall, the Wisconsin Capitol stands 19" shorter than the U.S. Capitol (out of respect), but is otherwise the largest rotunda in terms of volume. That makes sense too, given the output of hot air inside this building on a regular basis.
If you haven't seen this one, or the capitol in your state, province, or country; get there to absorb the history and beauty - you will be glad you did!
Now, the vacation continues.... more details coming as I get the opportunity to write.
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