California State Capitol Museum - Sacramento, California

 

California State Capitol Museum - Sacramento, California

The State Capitol serves as both a museum and the state’s working seat of government.  Visitors can experience both California’s rich history and see the making of history through the modern day lawmaking process.

The Capitol Art Program maintains the collection of works including the permanent Collection, the Loan Collection, the Biennial Senate Contemporary Art Collection, and extensive antiques and statuary collection located throughout the Historic West Wing and East Annex of the Capitol.

There are portraits of the governors throughout the Capitol and vary in style with the governor’s chosen artist.  The tradition of commissioning California’s gubernatorial portraits began in 1879 when the legislature selected an artist to paint portraits of several former governors.  Now the state pays for the portraits for all governors.  The portraits are to be commissioned after the governors retire from office.  Most of the portraits are shown with the governor being a “serious” face but some, such as CC Young being painted outdoors and smiling and in 1984 Governor Jerry Brown Jr had his done in a more abstract style.

The Capitol is home to two stunning murals, one is a 1914 depiction of California’s past, present and future, the other depicts the origin of the state’s naming. 

The common feature found in many state capitols, including California’s, is a portico opening into a central rotunda that rises into a dome.  It provides a stunning and inspiring entrance.

The chambers of the Legislative Branch are available for visitors to witness from the balconies that overlook the restored chambers.  The chambers are designed like a theater with the floor as the stage and the public overseeing the workings of government from the gallery.

Building Hours: Weekdays 8-5; Weekends 9-5

Admission: Free

Tour Office: Located in the basement Room B-27 - 9 – 5 daily (916)-324-0333

Public Tours: The State Capitol Museum conducts tours daily on the hour from 9 – 4

Location: 10^th and L Streets, Sacramento, California 95814

Phone: 916-324-0333

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