Masonic Temple is one of the most beautiful architectural treasure of Philadelphia. This is the perfect place for all masons of Pennsylvania, due to the fact that many of the founders of America were masons. Masonic Temple houses the great lodge for accepted masons and its history starts in 1867 when all the masons from Philadelphia decided that they need a temple for meetings, they bought a land for the construction of the temple. They even organized a competition for choosing the best architect, who was James Windrim. The building supposed to represents all the possible architectural styles of the masons , starting with their ancestor’s style from Egypt, Italy, Germany, Scotland, England or France. When was completed the building was a gorgeous treasure for Philadelphia, featuring all the styles with their unique elements, being famous all over the world.
The exterior of the building is made from stone of Norman Style, the exterior that come from the streets Juniper and Cuthbert are covered with granite brought form Maine, the main facade is covered by syenite, something similar to granite. The masons were known for their exceptional and perfect work, so this imposant building was made by very perfect and marked stones that created a real memorable building. The temple has a huge tower that has 76 meters, with foundations that are at 9.5 meters underground, making it a very famous skyline in Philadelphia. The interior of the Masonic Temples is designed in seven Architectural styles Ionic, Oriental, Corinthian, Egyptian, Norman, Ghotic and Renaissance. The temple has seven halls where take place important meetings, which are decorated with splendid furniture, murals. Each hall is decorated with ornated ceilings that are made in conformity with each architectural style. The most spectacular is made in Egyptian style inspired from the temples of Luxor from Egypt, decorated with hieroglyphics.
Masonic Temple has dinings rooms also a library and a museum with mason’s artifacts, for example the artifact of George Washington. The museum is designed in a byzantine style, creating a very amazing room. The temple includes a gift shop that provides with Masonic jewelry, books or small gifts. This peaceful place attracts thousands of visitors and is open year-round for those who are interested in mason’s past and lifestyle. It will fascinate you for its pleasant atmosphere and unrepeatable elements of architecture. The Halls will delight your eyes with exceptional decoration, so this temple will leave on you a deep and great impression.
By Eugenia Cvasov
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The best places to visit in Philadelphia .
If you plan a trip in United States you should definitely visit Pennsylvania with its gorgeous capital, Philadephia.
There you will find spectacular landscapes that will impress you for their beauty and architecture.
You will also be impressed for its delicious cuisine.
Check its beautiful places and discover Philadelphia’s past through its enigmatic museums and buildings that are designed in a unique style.
This city is famous for its mural arts which beautify all the landscapes creating a really unique design and style.
Masonic Temple - Staircase design
Masonic Temple - Egyptian Hall
Masonic Temple - Interior view
Masonic Temple - Interior design
Masonic Temple - Interior design
Masonic Temple - Interior design