original_query: What is the role of a capital city in a country or subnational entity?
query: What is the role of a capital city in a country or subnational entity?
answer: A capital city typically houses the primary seat of government, encompassing government offices and meeting places.  Its designation is often defined by law or constitution. However, some entities have multiple capitals or separate the official capital from the seat of government.  The capital often, but not always, is the largest city.