The colossal landmarks of the United States capital city Washington D.C. are enduring testimonies of their abiding commitment to the principles and values of freedom and democracy. And these continue to be greatly revered up to this day.

Most casual tourists and not-to-be-missed students on assignments — curious all — usually flock to these historical monuments from early morning till late afternoon.

However, we suspect some more serious individuals drop by these huge shrines at night — all spectacularly lit up, offering new narratives to all onlookers.

Even Cecile our seasoned travel agent back home, and wholeheartedly endorsed by George our knowledgeable tour guide — both heavily insisted on an evening paseo de los monumentos.

After refreshing ourselves from an entire day of seemingly-endless explorations and new discoveries, and relaxing through a leisurely dinner, we — seniors though we are — ventured out once more into the darkness.

Washington Monument

By day, the standalone-by-the-Reflecting-Pool Washington Monument is an awe-inspiring obelisk piercing the sky. Its stark simplicity authentically symbolizes the first US President’s sheer unstoppable dedication to solidly establish the firm roots of a constitutional republic in the United States of America. It serves as a reminder of how he, though he could have claimed undisputed power and founded a monarchy across the Atlantic Ocean, instead he chose to step away after two presidential terms to retire in Mount Vernon in the state of Virginia.

At night, the austere monument mystically glows against the dark, which evokes an appreciative sense of gratitude and reverence, as if the essential being of Washington himself solemnly stands watch over the country he birthed.

Lincoln Memorial

At sunrise, the Lincoln Memorial is a hive of continuous activity, with visitors climbing its grand steps to stand before the impressive larger-than-life statue of Abraham Lincoln — and he was larger than life indeed — seated confidently on his massive armchair. With a stern expression — travelling buddies claimed a smile was slowly forming — it reminded us once more of his undying devotion to preserve the American Union. We recall from past visits through the years the always-present never-ending scaffoldings and the constant buzz of tireless workers and heavy equipment about — a symbol of continual care and upgrade at this popular site.

When evening falls, the memorial transforms. Soft lighting casts noticeable deep shadows across Lincoln’s face, while we reflected on the hallowed words etched into the walls — his universally-acclaimed Gettysburg Address and Second Inaugural Address. Both resonated all the more!