© Spellbound Images by Wendy - All Rights Reserved
We caught the metro into DC the next morning… we took the elevator to the main floor that opened our eyes to an amazing treat! Union Station, the center of anyone who’s going anywhere, is another awe-inspiring architectural delight! Although not complete until 1908, Union Station officially opened on October 27th, 1907 when the Baltimore, and the Ohio Pittsburgh Express rolled into the station. With the triumphal arch of Rome symbolizing a main gateway, solid mahogany woodwork, 10-ton marble planters, egg and dart molding, and 70 pounds of gold leafing on the coffers, all we could say was WOW! If you enjoy a great piece of architecture this building will literally take your breath away inside and out!
Everywhere I looked the flowers were vibrant, and I was really amazed at how many gardens were still in bloom. I couldn’t help but grab a shot of the roses outside of Union Station, but I noticed all the roses in the yards throughout Arlington and DC.
We rode every available “open top” tour bus in and around DC. DC stands for District of Columbia; according to the tour bus audio, DC was given the name because of Christopher Columbus. After doing some research, I’m not sure this is true, but here is the statue of Columbus standing on the bow of his ship looking towards the Capital building, outside of Union Station.
Speaking of the Capital, another inspiring work of architecture, with its neoclassical design, is the center of attention in Washington. I got to visit the inside of the Capital Building when I was a little girl, but because of time restraints, we only got to view it from the outside on this trip. With it’s huge rotunda (there is actually another in the senate wing), colonnades, vaulted ceilings, and government style pediments, the Capital Building is a must see whether you’re inside or out. I would love to go back when those cherry trees are in bloom!
Being the tallest monument in DC, the Washington Monument can be seen from everywhere. It’s an in your face reminder of this grand city!
The Smithsonian Castle is not only a beautiful work of art, it is the center of 16 museums, and holds millions of artifacts, paintings, and other items, as well as the Hope Diamond. Built in the late Romanesque and early Gothic style, this is the first Smithsonian, built in 1855.
After our bus tour we decided to explore on foot, and stayed in DC until well after dark. Our feet and legs were screaming stop, but my camera was saying don't! I captured the Treasury Building, the White House, and the Jefferson Memorial after dark. I love to do night shooting, and take the opportunity whenever I can.
That’s it for part 3
Until next time
Love, Laughs, & Photographs,
Wendy
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