Hawaii State Capitol Building

This contemporary building, beautiful in its simplicity, holds a host of meaning in its architecture. Designed as a reflection of the Hawaiian islands, the capitol itself is intended to mimic a volcano, and its surrounding pool represents the Pacific Ocean. Even its pillars are supposed to evoke coconut palms. An open-air courtyard features a mosaic of aquatic colors, and the building's entrances are watched over by Queen Liliuokalani (Hawaii's deposed ruler) and Father Damien (a 19th-century humanitarian). Sculptures in the legislative chambers recall the sun and moon, and walls throughout are paneled with native woods.