Discovering the Philadelphia Pennsylvania Temple
The Philadelphia Pennsylvania Temple is a significant addition to the religious landscape of the area, being the 152nd dedicated Temple in operation. Located at 1739 Vine St, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103, this beautiful structure has a rich history and architectural significance.
House of the Lord Philadelphia Pennsylvania Temple by LDS Temple News
The process of bringing this Temple to life began with its announcement on October 4, 2008, by the Prophet during the General Conference. The groundbreaking and site dedication took place on September 17, 2011, presided over by Apostle Henry B. Eyring. Notably, this date coincided with the 224th anniversary of the signing of the Constitution at Philadelphia’s Independence Hall. Church leaders, including Mayor Michael Nutter and other local dignitaries, attended this momentous occasion. President Eyring articulated the importance of such places, stating, “The work done in these sacred buildings becomes the crowning element of our religious worship.”
Public Open House and Dedication
The Philadelphia Pennsylvania Temple opened its doors for a public open house from August 10, 2016, to September 9, 2016, attracting around 140,000 attendees. Following this highly anticipated event, the Temple was officially dedicated on September 18, 2016, again by Apostle Henry B. Eyring. This dedication took place during the 240th anniversary year of the Declaration of Independence, reinforcing the Temple’s deep roots in the fabric of American history. In his dedicatory prayer, President Eyring expressed gratitude for the Constitution and prayed for the preservation of freedom in the nation.
Architectural Marvel
Design and Aesthetics
Occupying 1.6 acres, the Philadelphia Pennsylvania Temple spans 61,466 square feet and stands at a height of 208 feet 2 inches over four stories. Its exterior is clad in granite quarried in Maine and fabricated in Canada, designed to complement the local neoclassical architecture. The striking features include a single attached end spire topped with a Gold-leafed Angel Moroni Statue, which stands at 21 feet 2 inches tall.
The building’s visual impact is further enhanced by its opalescent white exterior art glass, accented in beige and blue. Decorative scallops and roundels surround a central sunburst in the larger sealing and celestial room windows. Interior details like antique brass lighting fixtures reflect designs from the American Georgian period, adding to the Temple’s historical essence.
Interior Highlights
Within the interior, there are two instruction rooms, four sealing rooms, and one baptistry. The millwork throughout the Temple showcases classical architectural orders—Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian—growing increasingly elaborate as one moves from room to room. The walls and trim are coated in various shades of white, creating a serene atmosphere, while the ceilings feature painted gypsum board with gold-leafed line work.
The flooring materials reflect the American Georgian aesthetic with notable types of stone, including Samah quarried in Egypt and Perlato from Italy. The three-dimensional plaster details and monochromatic color palette establish a cohesive and calming environment.
Landscape and Art
The landscape around the Philadelphia Pennsylvania Temple includes a diverse array of native trees, flowers, and shrubbery, chosen to provide year-round color and enhance the serene environment. Special attention is also given to artistic features within the Temple, including original murals by talented artists. These murals depict significant historical sites, such as the Susquehanna River, and commemorative events from the Church’s history.
Elysian Features
Unique elements like the bronze railing in the baptistry, styled after designs from local architectural sources, add to the Temple’s aesthetic appeal. The overall design was carefully executed to harmonize with the surrounding historic architecture of Philadelphia.
As an architectural and historical achievement, the Philadelphia Pennsylvania Temple invites reflection and appreciation, not only for its beauty but also for the dedication and faith that brought it to fruition.
Philadelphia Pennsylvania Temple by LDS Temple News