It was once said that all roads lead to Rome. Well, did you know that all roads in Washington D.C. lead to the capitol building?
Though the layout of Washington D.C. has long been at the center of conspiracy theory regarding the work of Freemasons and their true intentions, the capitol building is actually the dividing center for the entire city. This is why many enjoy studying the topography and engineering of the city itself.
Aside from being the governmental headquarters for the United States, the Capitol of our great country is a focal point for tourists from overseas as well as with many United States citizens.
Perhaps you’d like to explore the city by bus, via an affordable Washington D.C. bus rental, or by foot. Either is possible, but before you get out to check out the town, you’ll want to get caught up with some of our national Capitol’s best-kept secrets.
Secrets of the City
Like many of the older cities in the United States, Washington D.C. has plenty of mystery to entertain both the history buff and subculture enthusiasts. The following shortlist combines much of this rich history and interesting facts.
- George Washington was the only U.S President to never live in the White House.
- The abbreviation D.C. stands for District of Columbia and is for commemorating Christopher Columbus, who was thought to have discovered America at the time.
- The Washington Monument is the world’s tallest obelisk, standing just over 555 feet tall.
- The White House was originally called the President’s Palace or the President’s House until 1901.
- The Library of Congress is the largest library in the world, holding over 160,000 books. 6,000 of these books alone were once owned by Thomas Jefferson.
- Woodrow Wilson is the only U.S. President buried in Washington D.C. His tomb can be found at the Washington National Cathedral.
- Washington D.C. residents actually drink more wine than in any other United States city.
Though these facts add a little intrigue to the town itself, much more can be uncovered when you walk the streets of the capital and go on tours around the city.
Obscure Facts
When studying the Capitol, you truly have to be on the lookout for things of the most bizarre variety. Below are just a few of these sights that you might happen upon.
- When you pass by the National Cathedral, you’ll probably notice the eclectic architectural design that makes this building so impressive. This building is adorned with gargoyles and other figures. But, what many people are unaware of is the presence of one of the greatest villains in all of popular culture, Darth Vadar. If you look closely, you can see his sculpted bust on the northwest tower.
- If you’re ever in the Supreme Court chamber, look for a pair of cat paw prints just outside the door. Rumors in Washington D.C. claim that there is a ghost cat that frequents the court chamber, and the paw prints belong to him.
- In total, there are 35 bathrooms in the White House. Along with these, there are 6 levels with 132 rooms. Further, the White House is home to 412 doors, 28 fireplaces, 3 elevators, and 8 staircases.
Along with the above list, there are a host of tunnels underneath the Capitol city. But, many of these are off-limits to tourists, or to anyone without proper high-security clearance. Though you may hear rumors of these underground bunkers and tunnels leading to as far away as Boston, the truth about these tunnels remains a mystery to many.
Touring Washington D.C. can be a fun and educational experience, especially if you’re into American culture and the history of our proud nation. Be advised, however, Washington D.C. is also ground for numerous protests, and often many of the main roads are blocked off and sometimes inaccessible during times of protest or civil unrest.
To make the best of your visit, plan around large gatherings or events. This way you’ll be able to travel the city without getting caught up in large crowds.
