Washington Monument, Washington D.C.

Rising to an impressive 554 feet and 7 11/32 inches, the Washington Monument is an iconic obelisk that dominates the skyline of Washington D.C., the capital of the United States. This towering memorial was built to honor George Washington, the nation's first President and a pivotal figure in American history.

Constructed of marble, granite, and bluestone gneiss, the Washington Monument is the world's tallest predominantly stone structure and the tallest obelisk, standing as a symbol of the country's respect and admiration for its Revolutionary War commander and leader of the Constitutional Convention. It was completed on December 6, 1884, and officially opened to the public on October 9, 1888.

Visitors to the Washington Monument can take an elevator ride to the top, where an observation deck offers breathtaking panoramic views of the National Mall, including sights of the Capitol Building, the Lincoln Memorial, and a reflective view of the Reflecting Pool. The interior walls are lined with commemorative stones from various states, civic groups, foreign countries, and individuals, contributing to the monument's rich historical significance.

The structure's design was chosen through a competitive process, with architect Robert Mills' plans ultimately selected. The construction faced numerous challenges and was halted for several years due to political turmoil and lack of funds, which is reflected in the two different shades of its exterior stones, marking the point where construction paused.

The Washington Monument is managed by the National Park Service and is open to the public year-round, with extended hours during the spring and summer months. It has undergone several restorations to ensure its preservation, including a significant renovation after a 2011 earthquake caused damage.