Alabama State Capitol
A white Greek Revival legislative building. It was where the Confederate States of America was formed in 1861, and it was the endpoint of the 1965 Selma to Montgomery march.
The Capitol was completed in 1851. In 1861, the Confederate States of America was formed here, and Jefferson Davis took the oath of office as president on the portico. More than a century later, on March 25, 1965, the Selma to Montgomery march reached the front steps, where Dr. King delivered his speech “How Long, Not Long.” Inside are a spiral staircase, a dome mural, and a restored old legislative chamber. Visitors can explore on their own for free or book a guided tour. Dexter Avenue, which runs from the front of the building, leads straight to Court Square.
Opening hours
Mon–Fri 08:00–16:30 (some areas open Saturdays)
Nearby sights
- First White House of the Confederacy
- Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church
- Civil Rights Memorial & Center
- Old Alabama Town
- Dexter Parsonage Museum
- Court Square Fountain
- The Legacy Museum: From Enslavement to Mass Incarceration
- Freedom Rides Museum