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{{Infobox settlement
 | name               = Harrisburg
 | official_name      = City of Harrisburg
 | settlement_type    = Capital city
 | image_skyline      = 
 | image_caption      = Harrisburg skyline and Susquehanna River
 | subdivision_name1  = Pennsylvania
 | subdivision_name   = United States
 | established_date   = 1791
 | population_total   = 50,000
 | area_total_km2     = 29
 | timezone           = Eastern (EST/EDT)
 | postal_code        = 17101–17113
 | area_code          = 717, 223
}}
'''Harrisburg''' is the capital of the U.S. state of [[Pennsylvania]] and the county seat of '''Dauphin County'''. Located along the '''Susquehanna River''', it plays a central role in Pennsylvania's government while also offering historical charm, outdoor recreation, and riverfront development.

== Overview ==
* Designated the state capital in 1812
* Small in population but influential politically and historically
* Located in South Central Pennsylvania near Hershey and Lancaster

== History ==
* Founded in the 18th century as a trading post and ferry stop
* Grew as a transportation hub with canals and railroads
* Played a logistical role in the Civil War and industrial era
* Faced financial collapse in the early 2010s but has since recovered

== Government ==
* Home to the '''Pennsylvania State Capitol''', a National Historic Landmark praised for its grand architecture
* Seat of the Pennsylvania General Assembly, Governor’s Office, and numerous state agencies

== Landmarks and Attractions ==
* '''Pennsylvania State Capitol Complex''' – known for its Beaux-Arts design and large dome
* '''National Civil War Museum'''
* '''City Island''' – a riverfront recreation area with baseball stadium, mini golf, and walking paths
* '''Broad Street Market''' – one of the oldest continuously operating farmers markets in the U.S.
* Nearby attractions: Hersheypark, Indian Echo Caverns, and Appalachian Trail segments

== Economy ==
* Dominated by state government, healthcare, and education
* Growing sectors include logistics, tech services, and tourism
* Capital Blue Cross and UPMC are among top employers in the area

== Education ==
* Harrisburg University of Science and Technology – focused on STEM degrees
* Nearby institutions: Penn State Harrisburg, Dickinson College, and Messiah University
* Served by Harrisburg School District and several private academies

== Transportation ==
* Located near the intersection of I‑81 and I‑83
* Served by '''Amtrak''', '''Capital Area Transit (CAT)''', and '''Harrisburg International Airport (MDT)'''
* River bridges and walkways connect the city to surrounding communities

== Fun Facts ==
* One of the few U.S. state capitals not the largest city in its state
* The 1979 '''Three Mile Island''' nuclear incident occurred just outside Harrisburg
* Capitol dome modeled after St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome

== See Also ==
* [[Pennsylvania]]
* [[United States State Capitals]]
* [[Northeastern States]]