HistoricSiteMarkers
Colonial America

Gloria Dei Church (Old Swedes')

Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania

Marker Inscription

Oldest church in Philadelphia. Founded, 1677, by Swedish settlers. This edifice of Swedish architectural design was erected, 1698-1703. The earlier place of worship was a blockhouse.

Erected by Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission

The Story

Gloria Dei traces its congregation to 1677 and its distinctive Swedish-designed church, built between 1698 and 1703, replacing an earlier log blockhouse used for worship. It stands as the oldest church in Philadelphia and a rare survivor of New Sweden, the short-lived Swedish colony that predated William Penn along the Delaware.

Why it matters

Old Swedes' preserves the memory of the Swedish and Finnish settlers who were among the earliest Europeans on the Delaware, a founding chapter often overshadowed by Penn's later colony.

Plan your visit

Nearby

Make a day of it — museums, food, and places to stay near this marker.

Museums & culture

Attractions

Food & drink

  • FRIEDA
    0.7 mi away · 320 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
  • Olivier Cafe
    0.8 mi away · 50 South 3rd Street, Philadelphia, PA
  • Buddakan
    0.9 mi away · 325 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
  • Franklin Social
    0.9 mi away · 401 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
  • National Mechanics
    0.9 mi away · 22 South 3rd Street, Philadelphia
  • Menagerie Coffee
    0.9 mi away · 18 South 3rd Street, Philadelphia, PA

Places to stay

Places data © OpenStreetMap contributors. Hours and details change — call ahead.

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Themes & tags

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