The Landscape Architect’s Guide to

Washington, D.C.

The National Mall & Memorial Parks

D.C. War Memorial

Your Guide

Susan Spain, ASLA

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Visitors wonder about the little white Roman temple in the woods visible from Independence Avenue. The District of Columbia War Memorial honors residents of the District who lost their lives in World War I. It was a local example of response to the World War I that occurred throughout the nation. Designed to be a band shell, today it is one of three National Mall sites that hosts weddings.

Learn more about the history of the D.C. War Memorial.

View Sites Nearby

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Dedication

DC War Memorial Dedication in 1931.

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A Space for Concerts

The memorial was designed to be a place for band concerts.

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Aerial View

The DC War Memorial is modeled after the Pantheon in Rome and sits within Ash Wood, south of the Lincoln Reflecting Pool.

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Blanketed in Snow

Winter at the DC War Memorial.

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Rehabilitation

The memorial was rehabilitated through the American Recovery and Revitalization Act.

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Intricate Stone Work

Look up and see the stone work of the dome.

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Inscriptions

Names of D.C. residents who died are listed around the base of the memorial.

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Bronze Medallion

DC War bronze medallion in the center of the floor.

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Marble Carvings

Detail of stone carving on the memorial.

Image: National Park Service