On the other side of St Louis Cathedral and equally imposing is the Cabildo, so named because it was the house of the governing council during the Spanish rule. Built in the late 18th century, the building is very ornate with beautiful railings and balcony. Spain, France, Confederate States and United States have all governed over Louisiana. In fact, on the second floor of the building is Sala Capitular where France ceded Louisiana to the US in 1803. The building now houses the Louisiana State Museum and has been declared National Historic Landmark. Of the many interesting exhibits, two of the most fascinating items on display are the founding stone of the colony and Napoleon Bonaparte’s death mask.