Philadelphia, the fifth-largest city in the United States, is considered one of the most important cities in our country's history. Founded in 1682 by William Penn, Philadelphia was the world's second-largest English-speaking city during the American Revolution (London was first). It was here that the Continental Congresses covened for the first time. In 1790, the city gained status as the nation's capital, a distinction it maintained until 1800, when the capital was moved to Washington, D.C.

Today, you'll still find evidence of the city's past: its cobblestoned streets, gas-lit lamps and brownstones, as well as numerous sculptures crediting important historical figures (including the famous figure of William Penn, who stands atop city hall). Those artifacts have been preserved and left to coexist peacefully with the signs of urban progress. The city's nickname, "The City of Brotherly Love," is indeed an appropriate one.

The highlights of this city are numerous and difficult to visit in just one day. Not-to-be-missed historical landmarks include: Independence Hall, considered a symbol of our nation's freedom; the Liberty Bell, located next to Independence Hall and constructed of cast iron (look for the crack in its side); and Franklin's Court, the former home of Benjamin Franklin.

Independence Hall and its accompanying 45-acre National Historic Park is the site of our country's birth, as well as the location of the 1787 Constitutional Convention. The Continental Congress met at Independence Hall previously in 1775. Independence Hall continues to be Philadelphia's most frequently visited attraction.

The Liberty Bell, adjacent to the park, is located in the Liberty Bell Pavilion. Its famous crack was resealed in 1753. In 1777, the bell was moved to Allentown, Pa., to prevent the British from melting it down to make ammunition. Philadelphia City Hall was built in 1871. Developers designed it to be the world's tallest building. It stands 480 feet tall -- quite high, but not destined to claim the world's tallest title anymore. The Christ Church Burial Ground contains the resting places of many great historical figures, including Benjamin Franklin and his wife, Deborah, four signers of the Declaration of Independence, and several Revolutionary War heroes. Also not to be missed: the Betsy Ross house, Masonic Temple, Edgar Allan Poe National Historical Site (former home of the eccentric American poet), and the University of Pennsylvania campus, a member of the Ivy League.

For those who'd rather spend their time at Philly's modern attractions, the city has plenty. It's a shopper's paradise, in fact, highlighted by such mega-centers as Franklin Mills, the largest mall in the city, and home to the 49th Street Galleria, an entertainment complex with a bowling alley, roller skating rink, and other recreational offerings. The Shops at Liberty Place, located in a 60-story glass tower, contains more than 70 stores and 15 restaurants. And the King of Prussia Court and Plaza, the second largest mall in America, caters to upscale shoppers with such department stores as Bloomingdale's, Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, and Lord and Taylor.

Philadelphia's residential real estate market is enjoying a growing demand for condos -- particularly luxury condos. Those who can afford such luxury opt for the convenience of living in the city, as well as spectacular views of the surrounding Delaware River. The sky's the limit in Philly; condo-hunters are limited only by their bank accounts. Single-family and other varieties of multi-family housing are also available, of course, and range in price. Philadelphia isn't as expensive as other East Coast cities like New York, Boston or Washington, D.C.

You may be surprised to learn that Philadelphia is one of our country's safest cities in comparison to other large urban centers, such as Chicago. In fact, according to 1997 FBI crime statistics, Philadelphia was the fourth-safest city out of the nation's 10 largest cities. Philly ranked behind New York (number one), San Diego (number two) and Los Angeles (number three). The city also has found itself moving up the list on Money magazine's list of the country's best places to live. Of course, owning the bragging rights to the nation's best cheesesteak certainly doesn't hurt Philly's chances.

Philadelphia is indeed one of the East Coast's hottest destinations for tourists and relocating families alike. With more affordable housing and comparatively safer streets -- as well as excellent educational institutions and plenty of cultural attractions -- Philly is likely to keep moving its way up the list of hot real estate markets. And if you're in the market for a condominium, The City of Brotherly Love is your oyster.

Published: December 14, 1998

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