updates | March 15, 2026

How big is Monticello?

6.783 km²
Monticello/Area

Can you go upstairs at Monticello?

Have you always wanted to go upstairs at Monticello? This exclusive pass takes you behind the scenes: through the first floor of Monticello and up the narrow staircase to explore the private quarters on the second and third floors, including the iconic Dome Room.

How many fireplaces were inside Monticello?

ABC News reports that Blake – who threw his 100th birthday party inside the home, but never lived in it – spent $7.7 million on the 10,000-square-foot house, which boasts seven fireplaces, five bedrooms, and five full and four half baths.

What architectural style is Monticello?

Neoclassical architecture
Palladian architectureJeffersonian architecture
Monticello/Architectural styles
Monticello is constructed in a neo-classical architectural style. Neo-classical architecture draws from classical Greek and Roman architecture. Thomas Jefferson was heavily influenced by both Italian and French neo-classical architecture.

Who actually built Monticello?

Thomas Jefferson

Monticello
Built1772
ArchitectThomas Jefferson
Architectural style(s)Neoclassical, Palladian
Governing bodyThe Thomas Jefferson Foundation (TJF)

What is Monticello famous for?

Monticello, “Little Mountain,” was the home from 1770 until his death in 1826, of Thomas Jefferson, author of the Declaration of Independence and third president of the United States. It is also an architectural masterpiece.

Can you visit Monticello for free?

Tours often sell out. Purchase your tickets online, in advance. A Gardens and Grounds Pass is available on busier days. Beginning May 28, fully vaccinated guests are no longer required to wear facial coverings when outdoors at Monticello….Monticello Self-Guided Pass.

ForPricingWhen
Under 12Free (ticket required) Year-roundYear-round

How many slaves were at Monticello?

Thomas Jefferson enslaved over 600 human beings throughout the course of his life. 400 people were enslaved at Monticello; the other 200 people were held in bondage on Jefferson’s other properties. At any given time, around 130 people were enslaved at Monticello.

Is Monticello Palladian style?

Is Monticello original?

Monticello is a National Historic Landmark. It is the only private home in the United States to be designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Included in that designation are the original grounds and buildings of Jefferson’s University of Virginia.

Can you walk around Monticello for free?

It all takes time, and Monticello is a busy site. Show up late and you may end up waiting several hours for the next available house tour, although you’re free to walk the grounds around the house.

How many slaves lived at Monticello?

400 people
Thomas Jefferson enslaved over 600 human beings throughout the course of his life. 400 people were enslaved at Monticello; the other 200 people were held in bondage on Jefferson’s other properties. At any given time, around 130 people were enslaved at Monticello.

How much does it cost to visit Monticello?

Monticello Self-Guided Pass

ForPricingWhen
Adults$32 Year-roundYear-round
Children 12 – 18$10 Year-roundYear-round
Under 12Free (ticket required) Year-roundYear-round

Can you bring food into Monticello?

The picnic area is located at the visitor center. You can take food to the main property. No special picnic area there. They do have a place where they sell food and drinks at both areas.

Why did Thomas Jefferson not free his slaves?

Mr. Turner states, “The reason Jefferson did not free but five of his own slaves in his will was simple: Under Virginia law at the time, slaves were considered ‘property,’ and they were expressly subject to the claims of creditors. Jefferson died deeply in debt.”

Why did Thomas Jefferson build Monticello?

Jefferson’s home was built to serve as a plantation house, which ultimately took on the architectural form of a villa. It has many architectural antecedents, but Jefferson went beyond them to create something very much his own. He consciously sought to create a new architecture for a new nation.

Can I bring water to Monticello?

Monticello and all of its grounds are a non-smoking facility. This includes electronic smoking products. Operating Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (drones) on Foundation property is strictly prohibited. Eating, drinking, and chewing gum are prohibited in the main House.

Were there slaves at Monticello?

What happened to Jefferson’s slaves after he died?

About 200 individuals were sold at estate sales after Jefferson’s death. Some of those sold from Monticello eventually acquired freedom.