Smithsonian Castle

Smithsonian Castle, located in Washington, D.C., serves as the central hub for the Smithsonian Institution. Built in 1847, it blends Gothic Revival architecture with a rich history, and today functions as a visitor center, museum shop, and administrative office for the Smithsonian museums. The castle also houses exhibitions about the institution's history and its mission to increase and diffuse knowledge. Its striking design and gardens make it an iconic landmark, giving visitors a welcoming entry point and orientation to the Smithsonian’s vast collection of museums and cultural resources.