Iowa State Capitol

For years we've been traveling through Iowa on our way between Nebraska and Wisconsin. Each year as we pass through Des Moines, we can see the domes of the Capitol. This year we had a little extra time, so paid it a visit.

We've enjoyed visiting different state capitols as we traveled around the US. We don't go out of our way, but pay a visit if it's nearby.

We think today was the 14th one. It sure is a beautiful building on park like grounds.

The golden dome rises 275 feet above the grounds. It is covered in 23 karat gold leaf. The most recent regilding was done in 1999 at a cost of just under half a million dollars. 

Looking up at the inside of the rotunda

Iowa became a state in 1846. Construction began in 1871 and was completed in 1886. The inside is quite majestic with 29 types of marble and a variety of woods.

This beautiful mural is at the top of one of the central stairs. It's titled Westward measuring 40 feet wide and 14 feet tall. It was painted in 1905 by a New York artist at a cost of $10,000.

So, we can cross that off the bucket list! Now on to hug that sweet little granddaughter!!