Where Is The Peace Monument On Capitol Hill Hiding
The Peace Monument is on the west side of the U.S. Capitol, in Peace Circle at the intersection of Pennsylvania Avenue NW and First Street NW in Washington, DC.
What It Is
The Peace Monument, also called the Navy Monument or Naval Monument, stands in the middle of a traffic circle on the Capitol grounds just northwest of the Capitol building. It faces west toward the National Mall, while its east side faces the Capitol.
Exact Setting
The monument sits in Union Square, the landscaped area that also includes the Ulysses S. Grant Memorial, the James A. Garfield Monument, and the Capitol Reflecting Pool. In practical terms, it is easiest to find by heading to the west front of the Capitol and looking for the circular island where Pennsylvania Avenue and First Street cross.
| Landmark | Location | Orientation |
|---|---|---|
| Peace Monument | Peace Circle, Pennsylvania Avenue NW and First Street NW | West of the U.S. Capitol |
| Nearby area | Union Square | Shared with other Capitol monuments |
| Facing direction | Toward the National Mall | East side faces the Capitol |
How To Find It
- Go to the west side of the U.S. Capitol.
- Walk to Pennsylvania Avenue NW and First Street NW.
- Look for the large monument in the center of Peace Circle.
- Use the Capitol Reflecting Pool as a nearby visual landmark.
Why It Matters
The monument is a 44-foot memorial dedicated to naval personnel who died during the Civil War, making it one of the most historically important sculptures around Capitol Hill. Its placement at the foot of Capitol Hill gives it a prominent position that connects the legislative center of the country with a Civil War-era military memorial.
"They died that their country might live."
Visitor Notes
- The monument is outdoors and visible year-round.
- The best viewing angle is from the west side of the Capitol complex.
- It is part of a larger monument landscape, so it is often seen along with other Capitol Hill memorials.
- Pedestrian access is straightforward from the National Mall and nearby Metro stops.
Common Questions
Historical Context
The Peace Monument was placed at the foot of Capitol Hill after Congress approved a site near the Capitol, rather than the original plan for Annapolis. That decision helped make the memorial a highly visible part of Washington's civic landscape, where it still anchors the western edge of the Capitol complex today.
For navigation, the simplest answer is this: go to the west side of the U.S. Capitol, then look for the monument in the middle of Peace Circle at Pennsylvania Avenue NW and First Street NW.
Everything you need to know about Where Is The Peace Monument On Capitol Hill Hiding
Is the Peace Monument on Capitol Hill?
Yes, it is on the Capitol Hill side of the U.S. Capitol complex, specifically at the west edge of the Capitol grounds in Peace Circle.
Is it the same as the Navy Monument?
Yes, Peace Monument, Navy Monument, Naval Monument, and Navy-Peace Monument are all names used for the same memorial.
What is the closest landmark?
The closest major landmark is the U.S. Capitol itself, especially its west front and the Capitol Reflecting Pool area.
