Market Street between 5th and 6th
Streets
(215)597-8974
Hours: Daily, 9:00am-5:00pm
Admission: Free
The world-famous Liberty Bell makes its
permanent residence in Philadelphia, and this national treasure
is perhaps the city’s most impressive attraction. Located just
outside of Independence Hall, in a modest glass shed-like
structure, the cracked masterpiece is mounted beautifully at the
end of a corridor inside the building.
The Liberty Bell is a worldwide symbol of
freedom, and has been adapted by many different causes to suit
their specific needs. Its initial purpose was to summon
residents of Philadelphia to the State House yard when the
Declaration of Independence was read for the first time. It was
cast in 1751 and cracked slowly in the years to follow. The
large, noticeable crack was actually a controlled drilling
procedure used to control the damage that had been done up until
that point; unfortunately, it failed and was "retired"
in 1846. However, it has been used since then, most notably
before the invasion of Normandy in World War II, when it was
tapped with a rubber mallet seven times, once for each letter in
the world "liberty."
Guides constantly accompany the bell
during its hours of operation, conducting tours every twenty
minutes or so. These guides are extremely well versed in all
aspects of the bell’s history and significance, and pause for
both questions and photo opportunities. The Liberty Bell is a
fabulous side-excursion when visiting the Historic District, but
be aware that a crowd tends to gather during the early
afternoon. After closing time, a button can be pushed, which
will present a taped history of the bell.
Click
here for a Virtual Tour of the Liberty Bell
Click
here for more 360 degree pictures
