Christ Church (Philadelphia)

Christ Church is an 18th-century Episcopal church in the Old City neighborhood of Philadelphia, dating to the early 1700s and closely associated with the city’s colonial and founding-era history. It is one of Philadelphia’s best-known historic churches.

The building and its interior reflect 18th-century Anglican church architecture, and it is often visited for its historic connections to prominent colonial and early United States leaders. The nearby Christ Church Burial Ground contains the graves of Benjamin Franklin and other notable figures.

The congregation served many of the city’s colonial elite and leading citizens during the 18th century and the church has been preserved as an active place of worship and a historic site. Interpretive materials and guided visits are commonly available.

The church sits in Old City Philadelphia, a short walk from Independence Hall and other colonial-era sites in downtown Philadelphia.

• Burial Ground: The adjacent burial ground contains the grave of Benjamin Franklin and other colonial-era figures, and is a separate visitor site with its own opening hours.
• Visiting: Guided tours and visitor information are available in Old City; the church continues to hold regular services and is also open for historical tours.

What to See #

• Christ Church Burial Ground: Located immediately adjacent to the church, this 18th-century burial ground contains the graves of Benjamin Franklin and other prominent colonial figures and provides interpretive signage for visitors.