The architecture of the New Mexico statehouse is unique among state capitol buildings. New Mexicans call it The Roundhouse because it is, well, round - with four protruding entrances. It is built to resemble the Zia Sun Symbol when viewed from above. The building contains 232,346 square and was dedicated on Dec. 8, 1966.Inside, the center Rotunda measures 44 feet in diameter and is 60 feet high. It is finished with Travertine marble native to New Mexico and inlaid with a turquoise and brass mosaic of the Great Seal of New Mexico. The ceiling skylight, with blue and pale pink stained glass represents the sky and earth. It is designed to resemble an Indian basket weave.
On the third floor balcony the flags of New Mexico’s 33 counties are on display.On the first floor (below ground level) are the semicircular State House and Senate chambers. Visitors galleries for viewing the House and Senate are on the second story, which is at ground level. The third floor contains offices for legislative committee offices, and on the fourth (top) floor are offices of the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and legislative Council Service.
The capitol grounds cover 6.5 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens. More than 100 varieties of plants may be seen here, including roses, plums, almonds, nectarines, Russian olive trees, and sequoias. Interspersed with the plantings statuary of native Pueblo peoples carrying pottery and hunting. Visitors to the capitol may take self-guided tours Monday-Friday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Guided tours are also available by appointment.
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