Hi all,

Centered in the heart of downtown Philadelphia stands the nation's largest municipal building (even larger than the US Capitol building). At 167 meters (548 feet), it is also the world's largest masonry building (the weight of the building is borne by stone walls 11 feet thick, rather than steel). Originally, it was planned to be the tallest building in the world, but by the time it was completed, it was already surpassed by both the Eiffel Tower and the Washington Monument. The building is topped by an 11 meter (37 foot) bronze statue of William Penn, which weighs 27 tons. It is situated in the exact geographical center of William Penn's original 1682 plans for the city, Center Square, now known as the intersection of Broad and Market Streets. The building was originally conceived in 1860. Preparations for its construction were delayed until after the end of the Civil War. Construction lasted from 1871 until 1901 and cost $24 million.

This building was the tallest building in Philadelphia until 1987, when it lost that distinction to One Liberty Place. Up until that time, there was a "gentlemen's agreement" that no building in Philadelphia be taller than the tip of William Penn's hat. Interestingly, ever since that agreement was violated, no major sports team (Phillies, Eagles, 76ers, Flyers) from the city has won a championship. Some people blame the construction of One Liberty Place. There are now a handful of buildings in the city which are taller than William Penn but, amusingly, all of them stand at the statue's back (so he would never know it!).

Today, both of Philadelphia's subway lines (Market-Frankford Line, Broad Street Line) go underneath City Hall. Tours are available on weekdays and visitors can ride an elevator to an observation deck just below the statue of William Penn. (I highly recommend it!)

Take care,

-RockyRaccoon

Philadelphia City Hall:


Another view:


The view from South Broad St.:


Philadelphia City Hall as seen from the Art Museum:


View of William Penn and the Clock Tower: