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Alabama State Capitol: A Seat of History

Explore Alabama's pivotal landmark: from Confederate origins to Civil Rights milestones, history unfolds in this iconic capitol.

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The Alabama State Capitol in Montgomery is a historic landmark with Greek Revival architecture, serving as a museum of state history and politics. It was the first capitol of the Confederacy and the site where the Selma to Montgomery march concluded, making it a pivotal location in both Civil War and Civil Rights history.

A brief summary to Alabama State Capitol

Local tips

  • Visit on a weekday for a less crowded experience and to ensure all areas are open to the public.
  • Take a guided tour for a more in-depth understanding of the Capitol's history and significance; contact the tour office in advance to book.
  • Explore the grounds to view the various monuments and memorials that offer additional historical context.
  • Check out the Goat Hill Museum Store inside the Capitol for unique Alabama-made gifts and souvenirs.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the intersection of Dexter Avenue and Perry Street in downtown Montgomery, walk east on Dexter Avenue towards the Capitol. The Capitol is located at the end of Dexter Avenue on top of Capitol Hill, approximately a 5-10 minute walk. The main entrance faces Dexter Avenue.

  • Public Transport

    The Montgomery Area Transit System (MATS) provides bus service to the Alabama State Capitol. Several bus lines, including routes 1, 2, 4, 5, and 8, stop near the Capitol. From the Intermodal Transfer Center, take any of these bus lines and get off at the stops closest to Alabama State Capitol Building, such as Bainbridge & Adams (4 min walk). A single ride fare is $1.25.

  • Driving

    From I-85, take Exit 1 (Court Street) and continue on Arba Street. Turn left on Union Street and merge into the far-right lane. The Capitol is located on the left. Metered street parking is available around the Capitol for $0.50 per hour, limited to two hours. Free parking is available at Cramton Bowl Stadium or Paterson Field. Parking garages are also available, such as the Alabama Center for Commerce Parking Deck.

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Discover more about Alabama State Capitol

The Alabama State Capitol, crowning Capitol Hill in Montgomery, is more than just a building; it's a living museum of Alabama's rich, and at times turbulent, history. Completed in 1851 in the Greek Revival style, it replaced an earlier structure that was destroyed by fire. The building has been modified several times with additions to the original structure. Inside, visitors can explore the restored House of Representatives, the Senate Chamber (restored to its 1861 appearance), the Old Supreme Court Chamber and Library, and the Rotunda, adorned with eight murals depicting scenes from Alabama's past. The Alabama State Capitol has a museum store that specializes in books by Alabama authors, artist-made items, food, unique gifts, and souvenirs. This iconic building held all three branches of the state government until 1940. More significantly, it served as the first capitol of the Confederate States of America in 1861. A brass star marks the spot where Jefferson Davis was sworn in as president of the Confederacy. A century later, the capitol steps were the endpoint of the Selma to Montgomery Voting Rights March in 1965, a watershed moment in the Civil Rights Movement. The Alabama State Capitol is recognized as an official destination on the U.S. Civil Rights Trail. The grounds surrounding the capitol feature monuments, statues, and gardens, offering a reflective space to consider the events that have shaped Alabama and the nation.

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