El Capitolio de Puerto Rico
El Capitolio De Puerto Rico - Photo: George Collazo ©
El Capitolio de Puerto Rico
El Capitolio de Puerto Rico, also known as Casa de las Leyes (House of Laws), is the seat of the Legislative Assembly of Puerto Rico, composed of the Senate and House of Representatives.
Here’s a brief historical overview:
Idea and Planning:
The idea for its construction was introduced by Luis Muñoz Rivera, an important figure in the political history of Puerto Rico and legislator at the time, in 1907. He began planning it as early as 1911.
Design and Construction:
A neoclassical design was chosen for the building. The construction started in 1921 and encountered several fiscal, economic, and political difficulties which resulted in the work being suspended twice. Despite these challenges, the Capitol building was finally inaugurated on February 11, 1929.
Architectural Style:
The building is a neoclassical, Beaux-Arts style, entirely white marble-covered edifice. It was constructed to resemble the ancient Roman Pantheon in Rome, using the Low Memorial Library in New York City as inspiration.
Historic Landmark:
On June 30, 1977, the Capitol of Puerto Rico was designated a Historic Landmark and on November 18, 1977, it was listed on the United States National Register of Historic Places.
Dome Completion:
The dome of El Capitolio, however, was not completed until 1961. Today, El Capitolio continues to house Puerto Rico’s bicameral legislative assembly.
While visiting El Capitolio de Puerto Rico, you are within walking distance of El Morro.
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