​Philadelphia boasts over 3,500 murals, who knew? Visitors mostly focus on history, rightly so with the likes of Independence Hall and the famously cracked bell.

And they love to reenact the famous scene from the movie Rocky on the steps of the excellent Museum of Art.

Or wander through the incredible Barnes Foundation collection, right next to the small but delightful Rodin museum. Don't miss any of these but do another artistic way to discover the City of Brotherly Love - do a tour of their murals.

There are good maps available to do a self-guided tour, but if you are not comfortable with this, there are guided tours available.

The Murals Art project

Thirty years ago Philadelphia started the Murals Art project as a way to combat graffiti and bring some beauty to otherwise drab and, at times, dangerous neighborhoods. 

They have grown in number to from small whimsical delights to huge take-your-breath-away complicated works of art. 

The city formed the Anti-Graffiti Network (AGN) in1984 and approached muralist, Jane Golden, to see if she could rope in the enormous, untamed but often destructive, talents of the city's growing population of graffiti artists. Golden succeeded beyond their dreams proving along the way her mantra, 'Art Saves Lives,' really does work. 

Twelve years later in 1996 the AGN was reorganized into a non-profit Mural Arts Program (MAP), with Golden as the director. 

Their mission has grown in ways they certainly couldn't have foreseen – way beyond tempering local graffiti artists.It helped at-risk children and adults, gave neighborhoods a focus and a sense of pride. And they became leaders and an example of how art can transform lives.

Philadelphia's murals make a strong case for art revitalizing neighborhoods or towns, and it showcases how art enriches individuals lives.

The City of Murals 

All this has led to Philadelphia becoming internationally known as the City of Murals – they've even had Prince Charles dabbling on their one of their murals in progress during one of his visits to the US. It is a visual feast and it is interesting to understand the themes of the murals. 

Some are clearer than others and some get to you more than others, just like viewing any art. 

The standard of art is very high and they are all very professionally done.

​Time to eat

When your stomach reminds you it's time to eat, there are plenty of choices but do try to visit the Italian Market and give yourself at least half a day to do so. 

It is the country's oldest Italian market with small shops lining the streets. Outdoor vendors jostle for space and hawk everything food related, from shopping carts to reasonably priced fresh fruit and vegetables. Free Tours By Foot offers a guided tour of the market - there is no fee, you tip the guide as you see fit.

Isgro Pastries

Unlike most food tours, they do not have set samples at each stop. You buy what you wish at each stop. Do try Isgro Pastries, an old established family run bakery with a mouthwatering display of baked goods. They make the best cannoli I've tasted since Italy. 

Di Bruno's cheese shop

Another must visit is Di Bruno's cheese shop. It is a treasure trove and be sure to sample the excellent US chevre, Humboldt Fog.

Reading Terminal Market

Another fun stop with many food stalls to graze through is the restored Reading Terminal Market. You can nibble on just about anything from falafels, Philly Cheese Steaks and gyros to organic flavoured olive oil. There are florists, African curios, ethnic groceries and butcher shops.

History, great art and food - the perfect touring combination and Philadelphia has it all. Enjoy your stay!

Useful links:
http://www.visitphilly.com
http://.philamuseum.org
http://barnesfoundation.org
https://www.muralarts.org
https://www.muralarts.org/public-tours
http://www.phillyitalianmarket.com
http://www.dibruno.com
http://www.readingterminalmarket.org
http://www.freetoursbyfoot.com/philadelphia-tours/food-tours