Tour the State Capitol

The design and architecture of the Capitol, which ascends approximately 100 feet from its base, is representative of the unique history and natural features of the Islands. If you look close at the building and grounds, you will notice the subtle blend of the state's fascinating beginning as a monarchy with its contemporary trappings as a democracy. Hawaii is still neither one nor the other, an anomaly among the 50 states in the union.

The entire building is set in a reflecting pool symbolizing the formation of the Hawaiian Islands from the sea. The conic shape of the legislative chambers represents the volcanoes that spawned the geological origins of the Islands, and the 40 pillars encircling the building suggest an image of coconut palm trees, which were a major source of food, water, building materials and other necessities for early Hawaiians. The legislative chambers and executive offices are paneled in gleaming koa, a highly valued native hardwood, and each legislative chamber has a balcony level spectator gallery. The great central court, open to the sun and moon, features a mosaic design called "Aquarius," which was created by artist Tadashi Sato. It depicts the changing colors and patterns of Hawaii's seas.

Rising from the central court are open-air balconies on each floor of the building. On opening day of the Legislature each year, the balconies are crowded with people there to greet their lawmakers with food, flowers and gifts.

Replicas of the State Seal, each 15 feet in diameter and weighing 7,500 pounds, are mounted at the mauka and makai entrances of the building. The state motto—the life of the land is perpetuated in righteousness—appears on the seal. For tours of the Capitol building, call 586-0178.