University of Pennsylvania, Private research university in Philadelphia, United States.
Description
The University of Pennsylvania is a private research institution in West Philadelphia that occupies a large area with academic halls, libraries, research facilities, and open green spaces. Tree-lined paths connect brick buildings from different eras with modern structures, while lawns serve as gathering spots between lecture halls and student centers.
History
Benjamin Franklin founded this institution in 1740 as one of the first colleges established in colonial America. Over the centuries it grew from a small academy into a large research institution with multiple schools and international reach.
Culture
Students gather on lawns between classes, sit on steps outside academic halls, and fill the walkways during the morning rush toward lecture buildings. Athletic events and performances draw crowds on weekends, while clubs set up tables along the main paths to share information and recruit new members throughout the term.
Practical
Visitors can walk through the grounds on foot, following pathways that link different parts of the institution, with maps and signage available at central points. Many buildings remain open during daytime hours, and libraries or public areas welcome guests who want to get a sense of the daily rhythm on site.
Did you know?
This site houses both the first medical school and the first business school ever created in North America, two programs that continue to operate today. Lesser known is the presence of a historic cemetery on the grounds and hidden courtyards tucked between lecture buildings that few outsiders discover.
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This collection brings together some of the most well-known universities in the world, spread across four continents. You see institutions founded hundreds of years ago, with campuses full of history, standing next to research centers working on future technologies. These places host students,...
Franklin Field
505 m
University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology
569 m
Philadelphia Convention Hall and Civic Center
741 m
Richards Medical Research Laboratories
630 m
College Hall
297 m
Philadelphia Naval Asylum
1.4 km
The Woodlands
1.2 km
Institute of Contemporary Art, Philadelphia
153 m
Fisher Fine Arts Library
282 mSplit Button
196 m
Irvine Auditorium
333 m
University of Pennsylvania Campus Historic District
539 m
South Street Bridge
934 m
Protestant Episcopal Church of the Saviour
487 m
Statue of Benjamin Franklin
228 mPenn Park
742 m
St. Agatha – St. James Church
442 m
Statue of George Whitefield
578 m
Centennial National Bank
513 m
Curtis Organ
333 m
Hajoca Corporation Headquarters and Showroom
655 m
University Avenue Bridge
1.4 km
Chestnut Hall
656 m
Schuylkill Expressway Bridge
1.3 km
St. Anthony de Padua Parish School
1.5 km
Cira Green
838 m
Schuylkill Arsenal Railroad Bridge
1.2 km
Pennsylvania Railroad Freight Building
500 mDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
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