New York State Education Building, Albany
The New York State Education Building, an architectural marvel in Albany, was designed by the esteemed architect Henry Hornbostel, a native of New York City. Completed in 1912, this building holds the distinction of being the first major structure in the United States constructed specifically as a headquarters for the administration of education. Its grand front façade is adorned with a 36-column colonnade, one of the longest in the world, designed to set the Education Building apart from the other government edifices on Capitol Hill. These towering columns, each 90 feet in height, are made of Vermont marble, contributing to the building's stately and distinguished appearance.
Adding to its grandeur, the front stairs of the Education Building feature two large sculptures with educational themes, created by renowned New York City sculptor Charles Keck. Known for his numerous historical sculptures across the United States, Keck's works enhance the building's educational and historical significance. Inside, Chancellors Hall, originally called "The Auditorium," is a notable feature. Located on the ground floor and spanning two stories, it includes a gallery and promenade on three sides, reflecting the building's comprehensive and grandiose design.
Upon entering the building from Washington Avenue, visitors are greeted by a wide marble staircase leading to the second floor, where a breathtaking Rotunda extends all the way to the roof. This Rotunda is adorned with large murals depicting the quest for Enlightenment, created by Albany native Will H. Low, who studied art at the same institution as Hornbostel. The Rotunda also features additional columns, further emphasizing Hornbostel's classical design aesthetic. The centerpiece of the Rotunda is a stunning chandelier, 75 feet in length and plated in aluminum leaf, adding a touch of opulence to the already magnificent space.
Adding to its grandeur, the front stairs of the Education Building feature two large sculptures with educational themes, created by renowned New York City sculptor Charles Keck. Known for his numerous historical sculptures across the United States, Keck's works enhance the building's educational and historical significance. Inside, Chancellors Hall, originally called "The Auditorium," is a notable feature. Located on the ground floor and spanning two stories, it includes a gallery and promenade on three sides, reflecting the building's comprehensive and grandiose design.
Upon entering the building from Washington Avenue, visitors are greeted by a wide marble staircase leading to the second floor, where a breathtaking Rotunda extends all the way to the roof. This Rotunda is adorned with large murals depicting the quest for Enlightenment, created by Albany native Will H. Low, who studied art at the same institution as Hornbostel. The Rotunda also features additional columns, further emphasizing Hornbostel's classical design aesthetic. The centerpiece of the Rotunda is a stunning chandelier, 75 feet in length and plated in aluminum leaf, adding a touch of opulence to the already magnificent space.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Albany. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "51±¬ÁÏÍø: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
New York State Education Building on Map
Sight Name: New York State Education Building
Sight Location: Albany, USA (See walking tours in Albany)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Albany, USA (See walking tours in Albany)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Albany, New York
Create Your Own Walk in Albany
Creating your own self-guided walk in Albany is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Albany Introduction Walking Tour
Albany, the state capital of New York, is a small city with a storied canvas that holds a significant place in the narrative of New York and the broader United States.
The Hudson River area in which it lies was originally inhabited by the indigenous Mohican people. In 1614, the territory was settled by Dutch colonists. Fifty years later, the English took over the Dutch settlement, renaming it... view more
Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.9 Km or 2.4 Miles
The Hudson River area in which it lies was originally inhabited by the indigenous Mohican people. In 1614, the territory was settled by Dutch colonists. Fifty years later, the English took over the Dutch settlement, renaming it... view more
Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.9 Km or 2.4 Miles
Albany's Historical Buildings Tour
Albany is steeped in history and architectural splendor, featuring a varied collection of buildings that mirror its diverse and layered past. The city’s architecture ranges from majestic government edifices to prominent educational establishments, highlighting Albany’s role as a key political and cultural center.
More than just functional structures, these buildings are lasting emblems of... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.6 Km or 1.6 Miles
More than just functional structures, these buildings are lasting emblems of... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.6 Km or 1.6 Miles