What is the capitol city of your adopted country? Does the name hold a special meaning? What are the advantages of its location within the country (a port city, central, good climate, etc.)
What administrative buildings are present? Are they all in one general location, or scattered around the city? Are there other buildings which are considered national buildings, as museums, monuments, parks, mausoleums?
Obtain a map of the city and highlight the various buildings.
Are tours available to see the capitol building? If so, take one, and note seating arrangements, color schemes, pictures hung or painted on the walls, any other decorations. Do the pictures depict national heroes, war victories, ethnic groups, or anything else that would give a clue as to what is considered important in the culture and history of the nation? Is there a balcony or other area where observers can come and watch proceedings? Is this only open for citizens, or can foreigners also watch?