The Rotunda, Charlottesville: Photos, Reviews & Location

Iconic university building, designed by Thomas Jefferson, known for its Palladian architecture.

At a glance

#1 of 5 Tourist attractions in Charlottesville

LocalGuideWorld score: 4.80

2.1 km from the center of Charlottesville

Rating breakdown

5 ★86%
4 ★12%
3 ★1%
2 ★0%
1 ★1%

1826 University Ave, Charlottesville, VA 22904

rotunda.virginia.edu

(434) 924-7969

Quick facts

What is the rating of The Rotunda?: The Rotunda is rated 4.8 out of 5 based on 1,112 reviews.
How does The Rotunda rank in Charlottesville?: The Rotunda is #1 of 5 Tourist attractions in Charlottesville by LocalGuideWorld score (rating weighted by number of reviews).
Where is The Rotunda located?: 1826 University Ave, Charlottesville, VA 22904 — 2.1 km from the center of Charlottesville.
How can I contact The Rotunda?: Phone: (434) 924-7969 · Website: rotunda.virginia.edu

Reviews (8)

Rich Sutton 2024 Aug 17

Spent about an hour there self touring. Guided tours when school is in session. Best seen after Monticello because the scale of the dome is so much larger.

Jeff Palumbo 2024 Aug 13

A beautiful and historic place.. built by 4000 slaves.

Mike Via 2024 Jul 20

It was a great visit, I was impressed with how well maintained and all the access to the site. I really like history, and this is a great part of history. I was impressed about the campus and the friendliness of everyone.

Augusto Paulino 2024 May 28

When in Charlottesville, do stop by the Rotunda. This building, in memory of Woodrow Wilson, in the university founded by Thomas Jefferson, combines beautiful architecture and rich history. Admission is free.

menassemenasse Kommunikation 2024 May 05

Very nice building. The whole area of the University of Virginia is very impressive. Students simply have to feel at home here.

Nikhil Dogra 2024 Apr 03

Beautiful structures with a lot of Historic significance, yet fully functional in current day makes the visit to Rotunda a memorable experience.
The thought and the mission why this building was erected in the first place and the commitment to keep the original purpose intact after 200+ years is no small achievement and certainly not something one sees often.
The whole area is alive with UVA students whose presence assures the future of this structure and campus.

John Harvey 2024 Mar 17

Truly a breathtaking sight and what many think of when they hear the word UVA. Big hoos fan and chose to check this out yesterday and it was an amazing view, great views inside and an amazing view of the lawn. Will come back again.

Wendy Kupis 2024 Mar 14

The Rotunda was designed by Thomas Jefferson and modeled it after the Pantheon in Rome. Construction began in 1822 and was completed in 1828
A magnificent building, there are tours guided by students but you can also do the tour alone. You cannot miss visiting the UVA Chapel which is the same grounds. A lot of history, very recommended