As the most important public space in the United States, the Mall in Washington, D.C., has been a vital emblem of national spirit and ideals ever since Major Pierre Charles L’Enfant first envisioned it over two hundred years ago. Although the Mall has undergone numerous changes since its conception, it has retained centrality within the life of the capital and has emerged as an essential symbol of American national identity and an influential model of city planning worldwide.

Featuring fourteen essays by prominent historians, architects, and leaders of some of Washington, D.C.’s most important institutions, this book explores the Mall’s origins and growth as well as the shifting political forces and cultural values that have shaped it. Over 140 illustrations help to tell the story of the site, including beautiful vintage maps, prints, and drawings, in addition to numerous contemporary documentary and historical photographs.

Originally published in 1991, The Mall in Washington features a new introduction discussing recent developments on the Mall.


Studies in the History of Art, National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C. Center for Advanced Study in the Visual Arts