The Washington Monument, located in Washington, D.C., faces due north. This orientation is a result of the original design specifications, which called for the monument to align with the Capitol building to the east and the Lincoln Memorial to the west. The Washington Monument's precise alignment with the cardinal directions is a testament to the meticulous planning and execution of its construction. The monument was completed in 1884 and stands at a height of 555 feet, making it the tallest structure in the nation's capital. The design of the Washington Monument, with its four-sided obelisk shape, allows it to face true north with minimal deviation. This orientation is not only a symbol of the United States' commitment to accuracy and precision but also serves as a navigational aid for visitors to the area.