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Smithsonian Museums and Zoo Closed Due to Earthquake

The Smithsonian museums were closed Tuesday (23 August) because of a 5.8 magnitude earthquake. All are reopening Wednesday, except for the Castle Building on the Mall, which requires an inspection because of the age of the building.


The Smithsonian Castle Building Photo by Eric Long

“The Castle did have some damage, according to Smithsonian officials, mostly cracked plaster, windows and there some issues with some of the door frames.

Also of concern are the stability of some of the turrets in the Smithsonian’s original home, a Medieval Revival building designed by James Renwick Jr, and completed in 1855. The Castle building’s nine towers, battlements and chimneys have become the iconic symbol of the Smithsonian Institution.”

Read more on the Smithsonian Blog

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