Other than its height, the structure is probably best known for its staircase, leading to the front doors. In each of the 48 steps is etched the name of the states, in the order they joined the union. Alaska and Hawaii were added to the top step, after their admittance. The Architecture, Inside One of the first things you will see when entering the State Capitol is the large bronze map on the floor. It is a map showing the 64 parishes that make Louisiana.
Parishes are like counties in other states.
The map displays many of the resources and products different regions have and produce. Just to your left, or to the West, is the Senate chamber, to your right, the House. Even if legislators are in session, you will at least want to approach the chamber doors. Even if they are closed, you can marvel at the bronze doors, which weigh a ton each. Engraved on both are depictions of what life was like in colonial Louisiana.