ROTUNDA BENCHES

SURROUND YOURSELF IN HISTORY AND BEAUTIFUL ARCHITECTURE

Gaze up at the stars in the rotunda on your next Capitol visit.

The rotunda is the focal point of the current Oregon State Capitol, which replaced the statehouse of 1876 that fire destroyed in 1935.

Walk through the revolving brass and glass doors and take a seat on one of the granite benches — the first Foundation project — and immerse yourself in the exceptional beauty and Oregon history surrounding you.

The Foundation funded the installation of eight black granite benches matching the second floor walls added to the Capitol Rotunda. The material was selected for its elegant appearance and durability. Completed on May 4, 2009, this project permanently expands the seating capacity for the public from 12 to 40 people.

Your gift to the Foundation contributes to the dignity and beauty of the building. Thank you for adding to the visitor experience for many years to come.

Photo: Capitol visitors watch an ancient South Indian dance form known as Bharathanatyam from the benches and stairs in the rotunda. Performers from the Kalabharathi School of Dance promote this dance form as a cultural bridge. Their goal is to share the peace and spirituality that is an integral part of this form of artistic expression.

The Oregon State Capitol is a beautiful, vibrant place to engage with history and democracy. You can get a glimpse of the building and the history it contains before you visit by taking an 360° virtual tour, available in English, Spanish and Mandarin. Before your visit in person, be sure to check for building updates such as hours of operation, tours and construction considerations.

We look forward to seeing you at our Capitol!