Philadelphia Architectural Style Hike 3 of 7: Best of Romanesque Revival

2.5-3.5 hours; 4-5 miles; brisk pace between stops; best examples of Romanesque Revival architecture in Philadelphia's Center City and Rittenhouse neighborhoods; possibility of late lunch afterward if there's interest.

If only there were an architectural style that combined the gravitas of Eastern State Penitentiary with the elegance of a Rittenhouse Square townhouse . . . Actually, this is a real style called Romanesque Revival, and it is the inspiration for dozens of incredible buildings constructed in Philadelphia between about 1840 and 1900. First we'll visit the "Sunrise Building" (not its real name) on 8th Street and then head over to admire *Philadelphia's Best Building* (according to me). Afterward we'll meander around the Rittenhouse Square neighborhood, where almost every street sports a Romanesque Revival gem. Next we'll check out an entire block of stunning Romanesque townhouses before heading back to Center City to see a beautiful church with a very nice circular apse.

If you haven't been on previous architecture style hikes with us, I guarantee you'll see Philadelphia from a new perspective. For those who have joined previous hikes, this hike features almost all new buildings, with only two (really good ones!) that we have visited previously. All are welcome!

As always, we will move quickly between buildings, but we'll also stop for enough time at each one to enjoy and discuss the wonderful craftsmanship. No knowledge of architecture is needed . . . just an interest in seeing beautiful places and a willingness to stay with the group.

GENERAL RULES : ••Hike at my pace. ••Hike lengths are approx: allow 30min -1hr extra. ••Donation requested. All monies donated to recreational charities like Natural Lands and the Friends of Wissahickon. •• For ~360 events each year donate $20 (2025), $30 for 2 or family or donate $5 for each event. ••Pay in person or at Zelle (2152474459) or at mrbasketball.net/HIKEpay.html . Thanks.
Yearly donation $15 July-Aug; $10 Sept-Nov; Dec new year.