Washington Monument Clearly the most visible memorial in D.C., the Washington Monument rises 555 feet above the Mall. It is the tallest structure in Washington, D.C., and is one of the most recognizable symbols of our capital city. In addition, it is the tallest stone monument in the world. Interesting Facts: The color of the marble changes partway up. When construction resumed after the Civil War the marble was mined from a different part of the quarry. The monument’s elevator travels 500 feet in just under 70 seconds. There are 898 steps to the top of the monument, and 193 memorial stones line the inside of the monument as gifts from the 50 states and many foreign governments. The steps are closed to the public. Links: Washington Monument–National Park Service Timeline   1848 1854 1878 1888 Construction begins on July 4. The Washington Monument reaches a height of 150 feet before it is halted due to public dissatisfaction, lack of funds, and the Civil War. Construction resumes, and work on the monument continues for several more years. The Washington Monument officially opens to the public. 2011 The Washington Monument suffers damage in an earthquake on August 23 and closes to the public. It remains closed for construction.                 Copyright © 2006 WorldStrides  Legal Policy  Privacy Policy  Terms & Conditions