 Nestled between the Schuylkill and Delaware rivers, just diagonally from Camden, New Jersey, Philadelphia is one of the oldest cities in the United States. It is the sixth-most-populous and fifth largest city in the U.S. and virtually covers entire Philadelphia County. The city has played a significant role in American history and in the birth of American sovereignty and democracy. During the 18th century the city transcended in political and social importance as compared to Boston and New York City. At that time statesman Benjamin Franklin played an important role in the rise of city. He set up the country’s first hospital, library, fire company and university. The city was founded by William Penn in 1682 who laid a simple network of broad streets and five public squares. Philadelphia became the first "planned city" in North America.
He also envisaged the city state as a ‘holy experiment’ to create a land of his dreams full of forbearance and spiritual freedom. Penn dubbed the city after the Greek word for ‘brotherly love’ since most of the settlers were the escaped victims of discrimination. In the 19th century, with the commencement of Industrial Revolution, Philadelphia became known as the ‘Workshop of America.’ With the set up the cotton mills, textiles manufacturing and steam-powered machinery plants more employment opportunities for the civilians were created. Currently, high-tech industries have replaced the manufacturing. The most flourishing is the medical education and service industries such as tourism, banking, legal and insurance services enjoy the monopoly.
The city’s attraction is its downtown area where the renowned sights of historical importance are preserved, the most significant being the Independence National Historical Park, which has the famous Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. Apart from the places of historical importance the city has a rich legacy and wonderful arts be it visual or performing. The city also has well-known orchestra, outstanding museums and some of the country’s leading cuisines. The city’s artistic attraction is enhanced by the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, which opened in December 2001. The population here is multi-ethnic with more than 100 neighborhoods. The city’s rich ambience varies from the lively Italian market to the celebration of African-American festivals. The traditional Amish community also doesn’t lack anywhere. They produce and foodstuffs. The typical foodstuffs such as cheesesteaks, soft pretzels and hoagies (sandwiches) are also the quintessence of different tradition flourishing simultaneously in the city. Philadelphia is the central city for those visiting Pennsylvania Dutch Country, the Pocono Mountains, the Delaware Peninsula and Atlantic Seaboard beaches. The main roads of Market Street congregate at the central hub of City Hall located in the downtown. The Parkway Museums district, the Convention Center district and the Washington Square and Rittenhouse Square form the four quadr  ants around City Hall. Most of the worth-seeing sights are within walking distance of one another. In the north of Market Street Old City Cultural District is located. Christ Church, the US Mint and Elfreth’s Alley, which is also the oldest residential street in America, are also the interesting places to visit.
A due obeisance is endowed to William Penn. His statue on the top of City Hall is a symbol of adoration and respect. A gentleman’s promise disallowed the construction of any building that would exceed the height of statue. In 1987 One Liberty Place broke the gentlemen's agreement and since then seven other skyscrapers have been constructed exceeding the height of statue.
The weather of the city is unpredictable, with moderate rainfall throughout the year. The infrequent heat waves are the common feature of summers and winters are cold with occasional snowfall. |
