Smithsonian Institution Building - 'The Castle' (National Mall)

The Smithsonian Institution Building, commonly called 'the Castle,' was designed by architect James Renwick Jr. and completed in 1855 as the original Smithsonian building on the National Mall. Built of red Seneca sandstone, it houses the Institution's administrative offices, an information center, and exhibitions about the Smithsonian's history. The Castle is a National Historic Landmark and a frequent first stop for visitors to the Smithsonian museums.