A Washington landmark and tourist center, the Smithsonian Institution Building, otherwise known as the Castle, is recognized both for its unique architecture and the treasures housed within the structure. Designed by architect James Renwick, Jr., whose other creations include New York's St. Patrick's Cathedral and Washington's Renwick Gallery, the Castle's red sandstone construction and Romanesque-style architecture are uniquely distinct from the white marble and steel that make up most of this city's buildings. Completed in 1855, the Castle originally served as a home for the first Secretary of the Smithsonian, Joseph Henry. It also housed all Smithsonian operations and was an exhibit hall from 1858 until the 1960s. Today, the Castle continues to house traveling exhibits, many of which have yet to find a permanent home at one of the Smithsonian museums. However, the Castle is perhaps more frequently used as the perfect starting point for tours throughout Washington. Inside is one of the largest and most detailed collections of tour information in the city. Here, the Smithsonian Information Center (open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.) offers two orientation theaters and several interactive information components, including video-displays, scale models of monumental Washington, and volunteer information specialists to answer any questions and to provide direction. In back of the Castle is a magnificent botanical garden. Visitors can stroll the peaceful, scented grounds and enjoy the exotic flora and colorful flowerbeds, all the while planning a tour of the city. In addition, on each side of the gardens sits a half of the national Smithsonian Museum of Asian Art. On one side is the Sackler Gallery, and on the other is the Freer Gallery, each housing a countless array of ancient and modern artworks from all over Asia (see individual pages on this website).
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