Alabama State Capitol, South Alabama Travel Guide

Perched atop Capitol Hill, also known as Goat Hill, the Alabama State Capitol has been a silent witness to history for over 150 years. The building itself is an architectural marvel, showcasing a blend of Greek Revival and Beaux-Arts influences. Completed in 1851, it replaced an earlier structure that was destroyed by fire. Inside, visitors can explore the Senate Chamber where the Confederate States of America were formed in 1861. A brass star on the west portico marks the spot where Jefferson Davis was inaugurated as the Confederacy's first president. Over a century later, the capitol steps became the endpoint of the Selma to Montgomery Voting Rights March in 1965, where Martin Luther King Jr. delivered a historic speech.The Alabama State Capitol is more than just a building; it's a living museum of state history and politics. While the Alabama Legislature now meets at the Alabama State House, the Capitol still houses the Governor's office and other executive branch officers. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the building's history and significance. The Goat Hill Museum Store, located inside the Capitol at the Union Street entrance, offers Alabama-made gifts and souvenirs.The grounds of the Capitol also hold historical significance. The main steps, where the Selma to Montgomery march ended, remain as they were in 1965. The Avenue of Flags and the Confederate Memorial Monument are other notable features.