The Heart of Denver: State Capitol and Beyond

Have you ever wondered why the Colorado State Capitol has a golden dome? Or wanted to stand on the exact spot that’s a mile high from sea level? Or wished to know why Denver’s most famous resident, Molly Brown, was called “unsinkable”? On this walking tour through Denver, Colorado’s vibrant capital, you’ll journey through its historic downtown area and explore the architecture, culture, and little-known facts that define the city’s urban center. The tour starts at the Greek Amphitheatre in Civic Centre Park, where you’ll spot two hidden murals by renowned artist Allen Tupper True, The Prospector and The Trapper, showcasing Denver’s gold panners and trappers. As you pass two statues – On the War Trail and Buster Bronco – which symbolize Colorado’s Native American heritage and cowboy culture, I’ll tell you about sculptor Alexander Phimister Proctor, a Colorado native who gained international acclaim. You’ll traverse the capitol complex and experience its collection of government buildings, historic churches, cultural institutions, and architectural marvels. You’ll learn the surprising story behind the Capitol’s golden dome and see where Martin Luther King Jr. made historical speeches. The tour ends at the Denver Mint, where you’ll learn about the mysterious disappearance of coin engraving tools during World War II, and the myths surrounding rare error coins. Along the way, you’ll have a chance to: •Visit some of Denver’s most significant sites, including the Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, the Denver Library, and the Center for Colorado Women’s History •Discover how Colorado became a state through extraordinary territorial negotiations •Hear the surprising story of how Denverites used to “catch” gold from the roof of the Capitol when it rained •Learn about the native communities that preceded Denver’s founding •Dig into the hidden mining history that shaped the city •Admire the deconstructivist facade of the Hamilton Building – the latest addition to the Denver Art Museum, designed by architect Daniel Libeskind Whether you’re a long-time resident or a first-time visitor, you’re guaranteed to learn something new. This 60-minute tour can take as long as a day if you choose to visit some of the many museums, government buildings, and monuments along the way.

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