The Masonic Temple is one of the most splendid buildings of Philadelphia. The architecture of Masonic Temple is very similar to a Norman cathedral. The wonderful and varied interior architecture has added to the charm of the temple. The Moorish grille-like structures of the Oriental Hall are very similar to the Alhambra. The Gothic Hall is a grand tribute to the European Knights Temple, which has been decorated with 19th Century royal hand-carved oak chairs.
History of Masonic Temple
The Masonic Temple was designed by architect James Windrim and was completed in 1873 after a span of 5 years. A huge sum of $1.6 million was used in the construction of the temple. Under the supervision of artist George Herzog, the temple decoration was completed in 20 years. This temple is a architectural wonder and it has been the headquarters for the Grand Lodge of F. & A.M. of Pennsylvania.
Architecture of Masonic Temple
The grand staircases of Masonic Temple leading to the upper levels are beautified with elegant paintings of early Masonic Grand Masters. The wood sculptures by William Rush, known as the father of American sculpture have been used to decorate the hallways. The Masonic apron of George Washington
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embroidered by the wife of the Marquis de Lafayette is displayed at the library or museum of the Masonic Temple.
The two Grand Towers of Masonic Temple, which are known as the Northwest and Southwest Towers and are extremely spectacular feature of the building. The Southwest Tower at Broad and Filbert Streets measure 250 feet in height for which the foundation was laid thirty-one feet below street level. The elevations on the Broad and Filbert Streets are bold and elaborate, reflecting the true characteristic of Norman architecture. The plain and beautiful elevations on Juniper and Cuthbert are impressive.
In the northern part of Masonic Temple there are three private suites known as Right Worshipful Grand Master, Oriental Hall and the Grand Banquet Hall. The offices of the Grand Treasurer, the administrative staff members of the Grand Lodge and the Grand Secretary are located in the southern part of this temple. Some of the other offices are the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite's Valley of Philadelphia, the Grand Holy Royal Arch Chapter, and Grand Commandery of Knights Templar.
Corinthian, Renaissance, Ionic, Egyptian and Norman Halls are the main attractions of the second floor of the Masonic Temple. The majestic Gothic Hall is on the third floor. The Masonic Temple in Philadelphia showcases grand architectural design.
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