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Capitol Square, SW
Historical Information
US Botanic Garden
Architecture by Bennett, Parsons & Frost, 1933
Easily recognized by the sparkling glass dome of its Conservatory, the US Botanic Garden, overlooking the National Mall, is located near the US Capitol. Visitors can enjoy year round the verdant atmosphere of indoor and outdoor gardens and see plants from around the world. Walk through jungle, desert, oasis, and Jurassic forest habitats and colorful, fragrant exhibits about medicinal, economic, and endangered plants. Outdoor exhibits include theme gardens for the home landscape, a mid-Atlantic native plant garden, a rose garden, and the historic Bartholdi Fountain. A variety of programs and tours are offered throughout the year. There is no charge for admission.
Bartholdi Fountain & Park
Sculpture by Frederic Auguste Bartholdi
The Bartholdi Fountain, designed by Frenchman Frederic Auguste Bartholdi (1834-1904) for hte US Centennial Exposition in Philadelphia, was purchased by the government in 1876, and relocated to this park in 1932. Bartholdi's most famous American work is the Statue of Liberty in New York harbor. The fountain's base features aquatic monsters and fishes while three classical caryatids uphold a wide basin. Originally lighted by gas lamps, the fountain made a lively display of fire and water at night.
The gardens in Bartholdi Park are designed to honor this great fountain as well as to inspire visitors with its home demonstration gardens. Each garden illustrates design principles and displays plant combinations for a variety of themes and styles, each of a size and scale suitable for the urban or suburban home. Changing seasonal display beds feature outstanding annuals and perennials. |