Top 100 Places that Kids Should Visit: Jefferson’s Monticello in Virginia



Beyond fun and relaxation, vacations also provide opportunities to explore, learn, and grow. They not only let people enjoy the breathtaking sights and experience the thrill that they may bring, but also let them discover new things at the places they may visit. Vacations may be both informative as well as relaxing for the adults as well as the children. Among the 100 places that kids should visit is Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello.

Located near Charlottesville, Virginia, Monticello is one of US President Thomas Jefferson’s masterpieces that became part of American history. The house was designed by Jefferson himself and is situated on the summit of the Southwest Mountains. It is said that Jefferson made the design of the house along with his draught of the US Declaration of Independence, and was named after an Italian word, which literally means ‘little mountain’. Monticello’s original design was based on the classical style of Palladian architecture, which Jefferson decided to adapt after his extended travels in Europe in 1784. The construction of the original house began in 1768 and was completed in 1770. However, in 1796, further improvements were made to incorporate the new design. It took 13 years before Monticello was substantially completed with the erection of the dome.

After Jefferson died, Monticello underwent several transitions. Cases were filed to take acquisition of the house, until it was designated as a World Heritage Site. Currently, Monticello holds the record of being the only private home in the US to be regarded as a heritage site.

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