Monticello

architecture · history · founding fathers · virginia

Jefferson's Own Design. Thomas Jefferson started planning and building Monticello when he was just 14 years old after inheriting land from his father. He spent years perfecting his dream home, making it one of the first examples of neoclassical architecture in America.

On Every Nickel. Since 1938, Monticello has appeared on the back of the U.S. nickel coin almost every single year, making it one of the most recognized buildings in America. It was only removed from the nickel design in 2004 and 2005.

A Working Plantation. Monticello started as a huge 5,000-acre plantation where Jefferson grew tobacco and other crops using enslaved workers. Later, he switched to growing wheat when the market for tobacco declined.

UNESCO World Heritage Site. In 1987, Monticello and the nearby University of Virginia, which Jefferson also designed, were recognized together as a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of their incredible historical and architectural importance.

Near Charlottesville. Monticello sits on a hilltop just outside Charlottesville, Virginia, in a region called the Piedmont, giving it a beautiful view of the surrounding landscape.