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Offered languages
- English
This tour presents the Jefferson Building not as a collection of decorative objects, but as a single visual argument about how knowledge is discovered, recorded, transmitted, used in government, and preserved for future generations. A rich tapestry of human knowledge's evolution unfolding in a cohesive narrative from celestial observations to the preservation of civilization. Marvel at the stunning murals by John White Alexander and the intricate Minerva Mosaic, while taking in the grandeur of the Grand Staircases. Explore significant artifacts such as the Gutenberg Bible and the Waldseemüller Map, alongside Thomas Jefferson's original book collection. This tour offers a unique chance to delve into the heart of the Library of Congress and its decorative arts, including changing exhibitions that showcase history's achievements.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
South side of the Carriage Drop off on lower level entrance.
Itinerary
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1Library of Congress
The Great Hall tells a coherent story: the journey of human knowledge—from observing the heavens, to recording and transmitting ideas, to mapping the world, governing society, and preserving civilization. Tour Highlights History and architecture of the Thomas Jefferson Building Compass rose and zodiac floor John White Alexander’s Evolution of the Written Word murals Elihu Vedder’s Republic murals and Minerva mosaic Grand staircases and sculpture by Daniel Chester French and Philip Martiny Decorative ceilings, inscriptions, printers’ marks, mosaics, and stained glass Gutenberg Bible Thomas Jefferson’s original book collection Waldseemüller Map Librarian of Congress Ceremonial Office, when viewable Main Reading Room overlook Main Reading Room floor walkthrough, when available Current exhibitions and selected decorative arts
1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket included
Additional info
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Additional info
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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