In this guide to the Masonic underpinnings of America's capital, James Wasserman reveals the esoteric symbols and the spiritual and visionary ideas that lie hidden in the buildings, monuments and physical layout of Washington, D.C. His walking tour of these Masonic sites includes both the expected and unexpected - from the Lincoln Memorial and the Capitol Building to the Federal Reserve complex, National Academy of Sciences and the Library of Congress. Each location includes descriptions, interpretations and explanations of the Masonic symbols and ritualistic meanings hidden within its structure, all illustrated with contemporary colour and historic black-and-white photographs. Wasserman explains the purpose behind putting these symbols and Masonic designs into the capital and how all these monuments fit into the spiritual vision held by the founding fathers. He reveals the prominent role that Freemasonry played in the 18th-century Enlightenment movement and shows how, in the New World of America, free of monarchy and aristocracy, the ideas of the Enlightenment were able to flourish. This illustrated guidebook to the Masonic secrets of Washington, D.C., provides valuable insights on the founding of America. It will be welcomed by students of esoteric art and symbolism, admirers of American history, and is the perfect companion to Dan Brown's new novel 'The Lost Symbol.'