The Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA) is excited to celebrate International Day for Monuments and Sites on April 18th. Global Philadelphia Association is partnering with twenty-one historic sites and museums to present "Reopen House Day" and encourage in-person and virtual exploration of the region's history and heritage. Participating sites will offer tours for visitors, virtual programs, special events, discounts and prizes, and much more. This day is organized annually by the International Council on Monuments and Sites to raise awareness of cultural heritage and promote heritage conservation efforts. 

Sixty-seven of the nation's 2,618 National Historic Landmarks are located in Philadelphia. Found throughout the city and region, they represent Philadelphia's most important historical places, events, and people. PAFA's Historic Landmark Building, which opened in 1876, was designated as a National Historic Landmark in May 1975. Designed by the American architects Frank Furness and George W. Hewitt, it is a significant part of America's and Philadelphia's architectural heritage. 

"Reopen House Day offers visitors the opportunity to explore parts of the city's heritage that can be found off the beaten path," said Melissa Stevens, GPA's World Heritage Program Manager and one of the event's organizers. "These are sites that have national significance but are deeply rooted in the neighborhoods. Whether you are interested in architecture, music, social justice, military history, or gardening, there is something for everyone."

Philadelphia's Participating National Historic Landmarks:

• Academy of Music
• Arch Street Meeting House
• Beth Sholom Synagogue
• Carpenters' Hall
• Christ Church Burial Ground
• Cliveden 
• Colonial Germantown Historic District
• Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site
• Fort Mifflin
• Founder's Hall at Girard College
• Hill-Physick House
• Historic RittenhouseTown 
• Johnson House Historic Site
• Mother Bethel AME Church
• Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
• Second Bank of the United States (Independence NHP)
• Stenton 
• The Athenaeum of Philadelphia
• The Woodlands
• Wagner Free Institute of Science
• Woodford Mansion

Many of the in-person and virtual events require advance registration. Visit Global Philadelphia for full details on the participating sites, their activities, and to register for tours and events.