Robert F. Kennedy Department of Justice Building

Gazing up at the Robert F. Kennedy Department of Justice Building, have you ever wondered about the stories held within its walls? This imposing structure, completed in 1935, stands as a testament to the enduring principles of justice. Originally called the Department of Justice Main Building, it was renamed in 2001 to honor Robert F. Kennedy, the 64th Attorney General. The Robert F. Kennedy Department of Justice Building is located at 950 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, in the heart of Washington D.C.’s Federal Triangle. It’s a massive building, encompassing seven floors and 1.2 million square feet. The building houses the offices of the Department of Justice, including the office of the Attorney General. The architecture of the Robert F. Kennedy Department of Justice Building is a unique blend of neoclassical and Art Deco styles. Its limestone facade, red-tile hip roof, and colonnades echo the classical style seen in other Federal Triangle buildings. However, the innovative use of aluminum and distinctive Art Deco elements set it apart. Inside the Robert F. Kennedy Department of Justice Building, you’ll find a treasure trove of art and history. The Great Hall, with its Art Deco light fixtures and terra-cotta tile floor, is a truly grand entrance. The Law Library on the fifth floor boasts a stunning 20-panel mural by Maurice Sterne. The building’s collection of 68 murals, painted between 1935 and 1941, depict scenes from American history and allegories of justice. The Robert F. Kennedy Department of Justice Building also houses the “Spirit of Justice” statue, an Art Deco representation of Lady Justice. This statue, along with its male counterpart, “Majesty of Law”, has been a source of some controversy over the years, with past Attorneys General choosing to cover the statue during speeches. Today, the statues stand uncovered, a symbol of transparency and the ongoing pursuit of justice. The Robert F. Kennedy Department of Justice Building is more than just a government building. It’s a symbol of American law, history, and the ongoing pursuit of justice. Its walls have witnessed countless legal battles, landmark decisions, and the evolution of American jurisprudence.