Travel: Washington D.C.

Washington, D.C. is a city steeped in history, where the legacy of America comes to life at every corner. For a tourist with a passion for the past, it offers far more than what initially meets the eye. From its sweeping promenades lined with iconic monuments to the rich collection of Presidential artifacts and timeless architecture, the city tells a compelling story of the nation’s journey. Exploring Washington, D.C. was not just a visit—it was an unforgettable experience through the heart of American heritage.

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The Library of Congress

Just a piece of the ornate ceilings ornamented with art.

The front of The Library of Congress.

The Library of Congress was nothing short of spectacular. As soon as I stepped into the main lobby, I was awestruck by the sheer intricacy that surrounded me. Every inch, the walls, the ceilings, the fixtures, was adorned with ornate detail, unlike anything I had ever seen before. I learned that the building’s aesthetic was deliberately designed to impress European visitors, and it’s clear that no effort was spared in doing so.
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It’s the kind of place where you could spend hours immersed in the craftsmanship, discovering hidden references to academic disciplines, great thinkers, and renowned artists woven into the architecture. The walls seemed to whisper centuries of wisdom. To me, the Library felt less like a building and more like a temple, one that pays reverent homage to the legacy of Western knowledge.

Notice the arches and domes—graceful curves that define the space and guide your eyes upward. The architecture embraces a language of fluid motion, enriched by golden undertones that shimmer throughout. Though clearly a display of opulence, the space doesn’t feel cold or distant. Instead, it exudes a quiet warmth, as if welcoming all who seek knowledge. It’s both grand and intimate, a sanctuary where beauty and intellect coexist.

Medallions on the floor depicting the zodiac. Here is Gemini.

A fountain head that no longer works.

Historic Preservation: A Look at The Past

Summerhouse

You must walk down a flight of stairs, as if being transported to another world.

This was the one thing on my trip I was absolutely dying to see. If the name Frederick Law Olmsted doesn’t ring a bell, look him up! He’s the visionary behind Central Park. One of his lesser-known but equally brilliant creations is the Summerhouse, tucked away near the U.S. Capitol. It’s essentially a 19th-century version of a cooling station—a small brick sanctuary designed to offer shade, breeze, and rest during the sweltering summer months. How genius of Olmsted to weave comfort and beauty into public space with such intention.

I absolutely loved walking through the Summerhouse. Though it was just a brief stop during my visit, the sight of the rich, saturated red bricks, each one carefully laid, left a lasting impression. The gentle sound of the fountain at the center added a soothing, peaceful rhythm to the space. It was such a calming and memorable experience that I found myself wishing there were more Summerhouses scattered throughout the park.

The Peacock Room

The National Museum of Asian Art houses the stunning Peacock Room—a space preserved almost exactly as it was in the late 1800s. It’s incredible to step into a room so meticulously maintained over the centuries. The cool palette immediately caught my eye, with deep greens and blues dominating the space, creating a tranquil yet vibrant atmosphere. Ornate vases, plates, and bowls stacked artfully around the room add a lively sense of movement and texture. The ceiling is truly breathtaking, evoking peacock feathers through its intricate design of geometric, angled golden rods. At the center hangs a striking portrait of a Western woman dressed in Eastern attire, a fascinating blend of cultures captured in a single frame. This room harkens back to the Victorians fascination with East Asian culture, which spread like a mania throughout Europe.

I was also charmed by a display of old silver wine horns (below), each one intricately crafted and richly ornate. The one in the center, in particular, caught my eye, it had a whimsical design that was actually quite funny, adding a touch of unexpected humor to such a refined collection.

Notice the lines all leading to the fountain.

I was pleasantly surprised by a quaint outdoor garden nearby (left) , centered around a lovely deep blue fountain. The perfect symmetry of the space was soothing to the eye, creating a peaceful retreat from the bustling crowds of the National Mall. It felt like a hidden oasis, a quiet moment of calm amid the city’s energy.
It was lovely to just sit here and listen to the water.

Lincoln Mania

I had planned to visit Ford’s Theatre—the site where Lincoln was tragically shot—during my stay in D.C. But no matter where I went, I found myself immersed in what I can only call “Lincoln madness”, and in the best way possible. Almost every exhibit, museum, and landmark I encountered was connected to Lincoln or bore his name. His presence in the city is truly immense, and through these countless encounters, I felt like I pieced together a vivid understanding of his time and legacy in Washington.

His presence remains remarkably powerful even after all these years, perhaps because his story is deeply humanizing. There’s a vulnerability in his features, a fragile quality in his face, that draws us in and makes him feel profoundly relatable and endearing.

One of my most unforgettable experiences was walking up to the Lincoln Memorial. There’s something profoundly spiritual and almost prophetic about the space. Approaching it feels like entering a temple, a place where you might encounter something divine. The imposing white statue of Lincoln, flanked by massive columns, creates a powerful sense of reverence and protection—an atmosphere that clearly reflects the monumental respect and admiration intended by its creators. 

Walking up those stairs, time seemed to stand still as I gazed out over the far end of the National Mall. Each step filled me with a surge of energy and purpose, as if I could conquer anything and embody the strength and resilience that Lincoln himself represented. Perhaps Lincoln felt that way throughout his presidency.