One of the landmarks of Toulouse is the Capitole which happens to be the seat of the municipal administration of the city. The construction of the original building began in 1190 to serve the purpose of becoming the seat for the government. In the 20th century, the structures surrounding the vast 2 hectares of the area were redesigned.

The facade of the Capitole, designed by Guillaume Cammas, is 135 metres long and built of the characteristic pink brick in Neoclassical style. The eight columns represent the original eight capitouls. In 1873, Eugène Viollet-le-Duc built a bell tower typical of the style of northern France on top of the donjon of the building. Only the Henri IV courtyard and gate survive from the original medieval buildings.

The Capitole is home to the city hall, as well as the Théâtre du Capitole de Toulouse opera company and a symphony orchestra. The Salle des Illustres contains 19th century works of art.

A visit to Toulouse would be incomplete without a visit to this vast landmark of the city which springs to life and reaches the epitome of beauty at night.