Capitolio de Puerto Rico — Attraction in San Juan

The building in question is a true masterpiece, captivating visitors with its breathtaking beauty. Every inch of this architectural marvel is adorned with intricate details that leave one in awe. The extensive use of marble, even on the stairs, adds an exquisite touch to the overall grandeur of the structure. It's a sight to behold.

Upon arrival, visitors are given a tour that not only showcases the building's stunning features but also delves into its rich history. Learning about the origins and significance of the building adds an extra layer of appreciation for its beauty. The architecture itself is a testament to the creativity and skill of the craftsmen who brought this structure to life.

Despite being under construction during my visit, the building managed to leave a lasting impression. It speaks volumes about its magnificence that even in an unfinished state, it can still captivate and inspire. Witnessing the construction process also provided a unique perspective and an opportunity to observe the dedication and craftsmanship involved in creating such a masterpiece.

Located amidst the Old Town, this building seamlessly blends in with its surroundings while also standing out as a true gem. Its exterior is a feast for the eyes, boasting stunning architectural and stonework. The combination of historical buildings and monuments along the boulevard creates a picturesque setting that invites leisurely walks and picture-taking.

Visiting this place was an unforgettable experience, leaving a lasting impression that beckons me to return. Its beauty is so remarkable that it transcends time and leaves one in awe of the artistry and vision behind its creation. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply seeking a visually stunning destination, this building is an absolute must-visit.

In summary, this building is an architectural wonder that mesmerizes visitors with its breathtaking beauty. From the intricate details to the extensive use of marble, every aspect of the structure exudes grandeur. The tour and the building's history add depth to the experience, while its location amidst historical buildings and monuments enhances its charm. Despite undergoing construction, the building still manages to impress. It's a place that beckons visitors to return and appreciate its timeless...

The Capitol of Puerto Rico (Spanish: Capitolio de Puerto Rico) is located on the Islet of San Juan just outside the walls of Old San Juan. The building is home to the bicameral Legislative Assembly, composed of the House of Representatives and Senate. The building is located in the Puerta de Tierra sector of San Juan. Prior to the establishment of the Capitol, the Legislative Assembly used the Provincial Delegation Building, which now houses the Department of State.The idea of constructing a capitol was first introduced by former Resident Commissioner Luis Muñoz Rivera in 1907, and was partly meant to demonstrate some degree of civilian rule in the island, which at the time was a colony of the United States.The project proposed by Muñoz Rivera assigned $3 million for the construction and established rules for a contest among architectures to decide which one would do the work.

In September 1907, Commissioner of the Interior Laurence Grahame sent the official request for architects through the press and magazines of United States. The specifications for the building were that it was supposed to have three principal installations: the Executive Council, the House of Delegates, and the Supreme Court. It was supposed to be simple, conservative, and appropriate to the island's weather conditions. 134 architectural designs were submitted from the US, Cuba, Canada, France, Spain, and Puerto Rico.

The evaluation of the proposals was in charge of William F. Willoughby (president of the Executive Council), José de Diego (Speaker of the House, represented by Luis Muñoz Rivera), José S. Quiñones (President of the Supreme Court), and Laurence Grahame. Three American architects were also asked to join the commission: E.B. Homerde, John E. Howe, and Bowen Bancroft Smith. In the end, three projects were selected, belonging to Frank E. Perkins (New York City), James H. Ritchie and Lewis B. Abbot (Boston), and Henry L....

My family and I visited the Capitol on 12/23/24. My brother had called a few weeks prior, and he reserved the tour. We arrived early in the day, and the tour went for a little over an hour. Our guide, Alán, showed us the various paintings and murals, and he explained the historical significance behind all of them. Of course, that wasn't all -- he also told us about the Puerto Rican constitution, struggle against the Spanish, and many more topics central to the Puerto Rican identity. We got to see one of the legislative chambers, too.

The tour was fantastic, and Alán did a wonderful job. It was a little confusing to find the entrance -- parking was plentiful, but we weren't sure which entrance to use. We called and found out we had to use the Senator entrance. I will note that tours can be in Spanish or English -- we went with English (only three out of five of us speak Spanish). There is no gift shop, which was a bummer. Still, I'm happy to give the Capitol a full five-star review. Don't forget to check out the Walkway of the Presidents, and just be careful of the slippery steps behind the building (but enjoy the view...