later University Architect, Francis Kervick, referred to the Victorian monument as 'an eclectic and somewhat naïve combination of pointed windows, medieval moldings and classical columns.' Others have dubbed the buildings’ riot of turrets, gables, angles, corners, and oversized dome and rotunda as pure and simple 'modern Sorin'. Interior The halls are decorated by portraits of the presidents of the university. The lower level hosts a gallery dedicated to the Laetare Medal awardees and the Wall of Honor adorned by plaques dedicated to notable people awarded for their service to the university. The building also houses the Columbus murals, a group of large paintings by Italian painter and Notre Dame professor Luigi Gregori, depicting the discovery of the New World by Christopher Columbus. Gregori also painted with figures representing Religion, Philosophy, Science, History, Fame, Poetry and Music. Usage and traditions The building is the location of many administrative offices of the university, including that of the president, Office of Admissions, and various other offices and services of the university. Additionally, it has classrooms and meeting rooms. In campus lore, if a student ascended the front steps of the Main Building before graduation, that student was doomed never to graduate. This legend stems from traditionalist smoking rituals. Students were not deemed worthy to climb the steps and smoke with their professors until they received their degrees and were educational equals. Main building is also used as the venue for "Dome Dances," which are dances awarded to residence halls who have been given the title of Hall of the Year. These dances take place on the second floor of main building, underneath the dome itself which makes them a coveted event for students to attend. Gallery References External links Notre Dame One hundred years Campus Tour Notre Dame Archives Live Webcam Article in the Chicago Tribune Article on ESPN University of Notre Dame buildings and structures University and college buildings completed in 1879 National Register of Historic Places in St. Joseph County, Indiana Historic district contributing properties in Indiana University and college administration buildings in the United States Second Empire architecture in Indiana Domes