Touring the New Mexico State Capitol in Santa Fe

Eric in front of New Mexico's
State Capitol in Santa Fe







This state capitol is the only round capitol building in the United States.  It's nickname is "The Roundhouse."

Eric joins the boy's side

in a tug of war.

The Spanish chose Santa Fe as the seat of power in 1610.  Following the Mexican-American War of 1846 - 1848, the lands that would become the states of New Mexico, California, Nevada Utah, parts of Colorado, Arizona and Wyoming were purchased from Mexico for $15 million dollars. 

Two Territorial capitols were built in Santa Fe.  The first one, with two domes burned to the ground in 1892.  The second one, built in 1900,  was a miniature version of the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C.  

By the 1950s, the State Capitol had became unfashionable.  Santa Feans were taking increasing pride in their native pueblo and territorial architecture and wanted their State Capitol to reflect their culture. Modifications were made to the exterior of the Capitol to make it more compatible with surrounding architecture.

State government continued to grow and in the 1960s. plans were drawn up for a new Capitol. The Zia Indian Sun Symbol is central to the design of the round State Capitol building.  Construction was completed in 1966.

Looking across the

atrium...

The flags of New Mexico's 

counties are on display here.

The Atrium's

skylight

New Mexican Contemporary
Art is an important element
of this State Capitol.










The Capitol Art Foundation, founded in 1991, manages the permanent and temporary art displays in the State Capitol Complex.

The Senate Chamber

The upper house of the

legislature has 42 members.

Some artwork has
religious themes.

The House Chamber

The lower house of the

 legislature has 70 members.

Digital voting display boards are being installed in the Chamber.

The New Mexico Legislature meets for 60 days during odd numbered years and

for 30 days on even numbered years.  Legislators serve without pay.

This Buffalo head is constructed

with recycled materials: paint

brushes, an old tire, newspapers,

film, a fishing reel, a plastic spoon

& much more.

The Office of the
Governor

The Great Seal of the State of

 New Mexico & a photo of

Governor Susana Martinez

The Governor's Office
proudly displays
New Mexican art.







New Mexico's State Capitol is unique.  It reflects the culture and architecture of New Mexico.  Low key and understated, the building houses the executive and legislative branches of government and is a showcase for New Mexican artists.