Washington Monument 🇺🇸

When you visit the public square in Richmond, Virginia, you will encounter the Virginia Washington Monument, a striking 19th-century neoclassical statue dedicated to George Washington. Designed by Thomas Crawford and finished under Randolph Rogers, this historic piece serves as the terminus for Grace Street. The cornerstone was laid in 1850, making it the second equestrian statue of Washington unveiled in the United States, and the entire structure was fully completed by 1869.

As you admire the monument, you will see a massive 21-foot, 18,000-pound bronze sculpture of George Washington mounted on horseback towering at the top. Beneath Washington, you can explore statues of six other prominent Revolutionary War Virginians: Thomas Jefferson, Patrick Henry, Andrew Lewis, John Marshall, George Mason, and Thomas Nelson Jr. Surrounding the lowest level of the monument are bronze female allegorical figures that represent significant events and themes tied to these historic figures.

Beyond its artistic design, the site holds notable historical weight; it hosted the 1862 inauguration of Confederate President Jefferson Davis and Vice President Alexander H. Stephens, and elements of the central equestrian statue were even incorporated into the Confederate Seal in 1863. You should visit to experience this detailed, multi-layered bronze tribute to American history right in Richmond.

What to see at Washington Monument

• A 21-foot, 18,000-pound bronze statue of George Washington on horseback
• Statues of six Revolutionary War Virginians, including Thomas Jefferson and Patrick Henry
• Lowest-level bronze female allegorical figures representing historic events and themes
• Designed by Thomas Crawford and completed under Randolph Rogers in 1869
• Historic site located on Richmond's public square at the terminus of Grace Street

Visiting tips

Take time to walk around the entire base to view all six Revolutionary War Virginians and the lowest-level bronze allegorical figures.

How long: 30-60 minutes · Best time: Daytime

How to get there & what’s nearby

Washington Monument is easy to reach on Richmond’s public transport, and pairs naturally with American Civil War Museum and St. Peter's Church. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Richmond travel guide.