A jewel of the Independence National Historic Park, the Liberty Bell spans layers and layers of long-standing history. In 1751, William Penn asked that the new bell being cast for the Pennsylvania Statehouse be engraved with the words, “Proclaim liberty throughout all the Land unto all the inhabitants thereof.” When the bell first rang to call citizens to the first reading of the Declaration of Independence, little did it know that it was going to change the course of the country forever. It was later dubbed the 'Liberty Bell' by abolitionists, who adopted the bell as a symbol of their fight for freedom for all Americans. A copper-clad, 2,080-pound (940-kilogram) icon of American independence, The Liberty Bell yet serves as a symbol of pride, inspiration and freedom.
Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA) can best be described as—a large, square space filled with ideas and beauty. Past shows have included retrospectives of Agnes Martin, Robert Morris, Cindy Sherman, Robert Mapplethorpe, Paul Thek and Peter Campus. There's no permanent collection, so check ahead about the current schedule. From July 1, 2008 ICA has become free to all visitors.
The Arden Craft Shop Museum is housed in a historic building in the small art village of Arden. Exuding a quaint, rustic charm, the museum explores the rich and intriguing history of Arden. Here, visitors can walk through a variety of exhibits, which include artifacts from the villages of Arden, Ardencroft and Ardentown, along with old photographs, art pieces, the role of theater, and the overall development of the Ardens. The gift shop at the museum offers local souvenirs, gift cards, bags, and more.
Permanent displays consist of paintings, drawings, sculpture, multi media montages and photography. CFEVA acts as a collective exhibition and promotion network for local artists. The different events held here and organized by them help spread awareness about the arts. Showcasing of various artists exposes people from different media towards the talents on display. The website has a lot of additional information and is updated regularly.
The Masonic Temple is the home of the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Pennsylvania. The current building, dedicated in 1873, now houses the Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania. The library contains the most extensive collection of Masonic literature in America. The museum houses a diversified collection of Masonic treasures that is unequaled and international in scope. The Masons sponsor a number of youth, educational and recreational opportunities. They have been strong supporters of Little League baseball and direct a number of scholarship and grant programs.
This little hollow across from City Hall is most noteworthy for Robert Indiana's 1978 "Love" sculpture. The piece has become a popular symbol for the "City of Brotherly Love" and its image is plastered all over the city. It's 20-foot-tall appeal lies in its simplicity: The letters L, O, V, E, stacked on top of each other. During a usual lunch hour the park attracts an odd combination of Armani clad businesspeople and skateboarders who skinny-dip their modes of transport in this concrete pond. They're actually fun to watch.
The Goldie Paley Gallery at Moore College of Art and Design features contemporary art, architecture, photography and crafts by national and international artists. The mission of the gallery is to seek out and present works of art that might not otherwise be seen by the Philadelphia community. Goldie Paley Gallery inspires creative thought by featuring artists who are not always in the mainstream of cultural consciousness, but whose art is often cutting-edge and profound.
The Bergdoll House was owned by the Bergdoll's family that was touted to be one of the most affluent families around. This luxurious and classy structure speaks volumes about the owners riches and good taste. A blend of Beaux Arts and Italianate style of architectural design, it was included in the National Register of Historic Places in 1976. Currently, it has been transformed in to a modern apartment.
This historic Episcopal church has been serving the community of Mount Airy since 1859. The current church building, constructed in 1888, is the second to house the congregation after it outgrew the former facility. The Victorian edifice features striking architectural details, and has stood the test of time.
Permanent displays consist of paintings, drawings, sculpture, multi media montages and photography. CFEVA acts as a collective exhibition and promotion network for local artists. The different events held here and organized by them help spread awareness about the arts. Showcasing of various artists exposes people from different media towards the talents on display. The website has a lot of additional information and is updated regularly.
Originally built in 1801, The St. Augustine Church was the first order of its denomination built in the United States and also housed the largest theological library in the city. Unfortunately, during the infamous anti-Catholic Nativist Riot of 1844, the church was burnt down to the ground destroying over 3000 volumes and some rare books. The second church was constructed in 1847 by Napolean LeBaron, an architect responsible for other Philadelphia landmarks including the Academy of Music and Cathedral of St. Paul and Peter. The church is an example of Palladian architecture and has impressive features like the white marble alter, Mexican onyx tabernacle and beautiful stained glass windows (all representing different saints) that lets colorful light into the church. This Roman Catholic Church is responsible for the founding of Villanova University and the Philadelphia Orchestra, both prestigious organizations in Pennsylvania.
The General Wayne Inn, a tavern, as mentioned on the National Register of Historic Places is a legendary structure. Not an inn anymore, this three level stone and timber structure yet serves meals. Presently the house is been converted into a synagogue and a Center for Jewish Life.