The Smithsonian Institution Building (The Castle) as a visitor and administrative center

The Smithsonian Institution Building, commonly called the Castle, was completed in 1855 and houses the Smithsonian’s central visitor center and administrative offices. The Romanesque Revival building provides exhibition space, orientation services for Smithsonian museums, and public information about the Institution’s collections and research. It is a well-known architectural landmark on the National Mall and a frequent starting point for museum visitors.